Swander Pace Capital acquires baked goods producer Café Valley

Private equity firm Swander Pace Capital has acquired sweet baked goods manufacturer Café Valley, marking its newest addition to its growing baked goods portfolio.

Café Valley has been offering its products to the in-store bakery, club store, mass merchandise and convenience-store segments.

The company is reported to have made significant investments in its two production facilities located in Phoenix, Arizona, and Marion, Indiana.

Following the acquisition, existing CEO Brian Owens will continue to serve as Café Valley chief executive.

In partnership with Swander Pace, Owens will help the company to grow by strengthening its customer partnerships and investing in new product innovation, as well as expanding its distribution footprint across North America.

Swander Pace Capital director Tyler Matlock said: “Café Valley is already a leader in the category thanks to its long history, high-quality diversified product offering, unmatched customer service and best-in-class production facilities.

“Brian’s extensive experience, keen vision and deep knowledge of the bakery space make him an ideal partner to lead the company into its next phase of growth and expansion.”

Established in 1986, Café Valley is engaged in the production of croissants, cakes, muffins and other products for retail and foodservice channels across the US and Canadian markets.

Earlier, Swander Pace completed transactions with Voortman Cookies, Pineridge Bakery, Ideal Snacks, and Nonni’s.

Owens said: “I am excited to work with the talented team at Swander Pace to increase our market share, product offering and distribution footprint.”

Financial details of the deal have not been disclosed by the companies.

Last November, Swander Pace acquired Bäckerhaus Veit, a Canadian producer of buns and soft pretzel products.