Engelman’s Baking acquires wholesale bakery St. Armands Baking Company

Hyde Park Capital has successfully facilitated the acquisition of St. Armands Baking Company by Engelman’s Baking Co., a leading wholesale bakery. This acquisition, announced by Hyde Park Capital, where it served as the exclusive investment banker, marks a strategic expansion for Engelman’s, enhancing its portfolio with St. Armands’ extensive range of fresh and frozen bread products.

St. Armands, based in Bradenton, Florida, has evolved from a small mom-and-pop bakery to a significant player in the commercial bakery sector since its acquisition by the Vroom family in 1981. Engelman’s Baking Co., founded a year later in 1982 and headquartered in Norcross, Georgia, offers a comprehensive line of bread products, servicing both food service and retail customers nationwide.

Bernard Vroom, owner of St. Armands, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the aligned values and standards between the two companies. “We are thrilled to partner with Engelman’s. Both companies share similar backstories and high standards. Strategically, we will be able to expand our footprint in the Southeast and beyond,” said Vroom. Engelman’s CEO Rob Hathy also commented on the acquisition, stating, “Bringing together the exceptional talent and culture that both companies share will allow us to have a broader product portfolio and better serve our customers.”

The partnership is expected to strengthen Engelman’s national presence and create significant commercial opportunities. “This partnership strengthens our national footprint and creates significant commercial opportunities for both businesses,” added Paul Bell, President and CFO of Engelman’s Bakery.

Legal counsel for St. Armands was provided by Shutts & Bowen during this transaction. Luke Horanski, Vice President of Hyde Park Capital, also noted the deep, long-lasting customer relationships and quality baking capabilities of both companies as key factors in the acquisition’s success.

This acquisition represents a strategic expansion for Engelman’s, positioning it for increased market reach and diversified product offerings. By merging St. Armands’ expertise in both fresh and frozen bakery products with Engelman’s established distribution network, the combined entity is set to enhance its competitive edge in the bakery industry. This merger not only promises growth but also a commitment to maintaining the high-quality standards both companies are known for.