Sonoma Brands completes acquisition of Chef’s Cut Real Jerky Co

US-based private equity investor Sonoma Brands has completed the acquisition of Chef’s Cut Real Jerky Co, a manufacturer of jerky, meat sticks and biltong.

Financial details of the deal have not been disclosed by either company.

Sonoma Brands managing director Kevin Murphy said: “Our goal is to re-energise the premium segment of the meat snacks category.

“Through a focus on product quality and innovation supported by impactful marketing and a thoughtful promotional strategy, we are committed to driving incremental growth for our retail partners while delivering a great product and experience to consumers.”

Established in 2009, Chef’s Cut claims that all its products are produced using real ingredients and premium cuts of steak.

Under the leadership of Jon Sebastiani, who leads Sonoma Brands and is also the founder of jerky brand Krave, Chef’s Cut will continue to develop alongside Krave.

Krave was sold to The Hershey Company by Sebastiani in 2015. Sonoma Brands acquired Krave from The Hershey Company in June.

Murphy will serve as the interim CEO of the combined business entity.

With the addition of Chef’s Cut, Sonoma Brands intends to create a ‘powerhouse portfolio’ of brands within the meat snacking space.

Krave chief marketing officer Rusti Porter said: “We see tremendous opportunity for continued growth in meat snacking and feel fortunate to lead a second wave of the jerky renaissance with both Krave and Chef’s Cut at the helm.

“It is our belief that Chef’s Cut and Krave are complementary brands that engage with different consumers, both the traditional jerky shopper, as well as the health and fitness-minded millennial who seeks artisanal flavours and quality ingredients.

“We are thrilled to grow both brands in tandem here in Sonoma to continue the story we started in 2009 with the launch of Krave.”