Custom Made Meals acquires Hearthside Food Solutions’ manufacturing assets in Florida

Custom Made Meals LLC (CMM), a distinguished supplier of fresh, oven-ready entrees, appetizers, and sides primarily for grocery retailers and food service distributors, announced a significant expansion with the acquisition of Hearthside Food Solutions’ ready-to-cook and ready-to-heat manufacturing assets in Jacksonville, FL. This marks the first acquisition for CMM under the ownership of Stellex Capital Management, a private equity firm that targets middle market investments across North America and Europe.

Hearthside Jacksonville, a facility operational since 2005, is known for its comprehensive range of chef-curated meals and appetizers. The facility boasts high industry standards with SQF Level 3, FDA, and USDA certifications, positioning it as a crucial player in the Eastern U.S. market. This acquisition is set to broaden CMM’s product offerings, particularly in wraps, sandwiches, value-added seafood, and ready-to-heat meals, thereby enhancing its regional footprint and distribution network efficiency.

The deal includes Hearthside Jacksonville’s dedicated team, known for their commitment to quality and timely delivery. Doug Burris, CEO of Custom Made Meals and its sister company Country Fresh, emphasized the strategic value of integrating these new capabilities to better serve nationwide customers. “The acquisition allows us to continue CMM’s legacy as a collaborative partner while providing on-trend solutions that boost customer loyalty and store visits,” said Burris.

Trey Lee, Managing Director at Stellex, highlighted the acquisition’s alignment with market demands for fresh, innovative meal solutions. “Given the growing demand for fresh value-added offerings, we are enthusiastic about supporting CMM’s strategy to meet and exceed retail needs,” Lee noted. The investment by Stellex is seen as a move to capitalize on the expanding market for convenient, high-quality food products.

Legal advisement for the transaction was provided by Winston & Strawn LLP for Stellex and CMM, with Mayer Brown LLP representing Hearthside USA. Financial advisory services were furnished by Baird for Hearthside USA.

The acquisition of Hearthside Jacksonville by Custom Made Meals underlines a strategic move to strengthen its market position in the ready-to-cook and ready-to-heat sectors. This expansion not only enhances CMM’s production capabilities but also its ability to innovate within the fresh food segment. The integration of Hearthside’s assets and expertise could lead to significant operational efficiencies and a better product range, thereby improving the overall customer experience and supporting sustained growth in the competitive food market.