US cake and croissants maker Café Valley has been acquired by local private-equity firm Swander Pace Capital for an undisclosed sum. 

Phoenix, Arizona-based Café Valley is a manufacturer of croissants, cakes, muffins and other sweet baked goods for the retail and foodservice channels across the US and Canada.

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Founded in 1986 the company has production facilities in Phoenix and Marion, Indiana.

Café Valley CEO Brian Owens will continue to serve as the business’ chief executive, “working closely with Swander Pace to grow the company by strengthening its customer partnerships, investing in new product innovation, and expanding its distribution footprint across North America”.

Tyler Matlock, director at Swander Pace Capital, which has offices in San Francisco, New Jersey and Ontario, Canada, 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.”

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Owens said: “I am excited to work with the talented team at Swander Pace to increase our market share, product offering and distribution footprint. They have deep understanding and experience in the competitive bakery niche, as well as a strong track record of giving companies the advice and backing they need to succeed.”

The acquisition marks Swander Pace’s most recent investment in the baked goods industry, having completed previous transactions with Bäckerhaus Veit, Voortman Cookies, Pineridge Bakery, Ideal Snacks, and Nonni’s.

just-food interview from January 2019: “Food represents the best of consumer products” – private-equity firm Swander Pace Capital on its latest deal and wider M&A strategy

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