Verus International acquires Big League Foods

Verus International, a company engaged in global consumer packaged goods, foodstuff distribution and wholesale trade, has acquired Big League Foods for an undisclosed sum.

Big League Foods holds a licence with Major League Baseball Properties (MLB) to sell MLB-branded frozen dessert products and confections. The licence covers all 30 MLB teams.

Verus International CEO Anshu Bhatnagar said: “These types of licences come with built-in loyalty because the product will bear the MLB logo and the signature name and emblem of the local team.

“In 2019, we intend to start distributing products to a handful of teams, with the goal to roll out products featuring all 30 teams as we build out our new business segment.”

Verus acquired all outstanding capital stock of Big League Foods.

The initial ice cream product line up will feature grocery store-type packaging in 1.5 quart and pint container sizes, as well as grab-and-go size ice cream in cone, bar and sandwich versions.

The confections product line will include gummi and chocolate candies.

Big League Foods founder James Wheeler will continue to lead the company as its president and will join Verus at its corporate headquarters in Maryland.

Wheeler said: “After 30 years in the food business, I know how important it is to have a great team and the right resources to successfully grow and gain shelf space. Joining forces with Verus will enable us to grow much faster than we could have done as a private enterprise.

“Our ultimate vision is even bigger than this first MLB license, but also includes other confectionary products and other sports leagues and branding opportunities. Sports fans are loyal consumers, and we have the opportunity to gain a foothold in the $25 billion frozen dessert market via that loyalty.”