Private equity firm Vestar Capital Partners has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Nonni’s Food Group, manufacturer of premium cookies and baked snacks, from Wind Point Partners. Terms of the transaction, which is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2017, were not disclosed.
Based in Oakbrook, Illinois, Nonni’s Food Group products are sold under the Nonni’s, THINaddictives, and La Dolce Vita brands. The company’s distribution platform includes club stores, grocery, food service, and on-line retailing.
“We see numerous growth avenues for Nonni’s premium, established brands,” says Brian O’Connor, managing director of Vestar. “We are excited to be partnering with (chief executive officer) Brian Hansberry, (chief operating officer) Chris Puma and the rest of Nonni’s management team to pursue our shared vision for the company.”
Founded in 1988, Vestar Capital Partners specializes in management buyouts and growth capital investments with a focus on consumer, health care, business services, and industrial products. Investments have included Hearthside Food Solutions, Birds Eye Foods, Celestial Seasonings, and Michael Foods.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Vestar as we look to build upon Nonni’s growth and success,” says Brian Hansberry, chief executive officer of Nonni’s. “The Vestar team’s deep consumer experience will be invaluable as we work to expand our customer relationships, enter new channels, and continue to introduce new and innovative products to the marketplace.”
