In a move to increase its hold on the Northeast pizza market, American specialty food distributor Ferraro Foods has acquired GDS Foods Inc., a New Jersey-based importer and distributor of Italian food products, for an undisclosed price.

The Sussex, N.J. company, boasting nearly $50 million in annual sales, solidifies Ferraro’s growing network of distribution hubs in a region critically dense with pizzerias. The acquisition of GDS Foods adds hundreds of customers to Ferraro Foods’ already extensive list and enhances its industry-leading range of specialty imported Italian food products.

This acquisition is the latest development in Ferraro Food’s vigorous expansion strategy. The company aims to gain more market share in the Northeast pizza markets, which boasts the highest concentration of independent pizzerias in the United States.

This announcement comes in the wake of Ferraro Foods’ disclosure last month about the addition of a 230,000-square-foot warehouse and distribution center in Long Island, further evidence of the company’s aggressive growth plan.

Dan Hill — Ferraro Foods CEO said: “We are excited to partner with GDS, a terrific family-run business with strong roots in the area going back 35 years. We love the business, we love the people, and they have a loyal customer base that aligns perfectly with Ferraro’s.

“Just as important, GDS is pizza to the core, so they are a perfect fit for the Ferraro culture.”

  Dan Hill, Ferraro Foods, Food acquisition news, GDS Foods, Long Island, New Jersey, pizza, Sussex, USA