Saco Foods acquires Quinoa Corporation, adding Ancient Harvest and Pamela’s to portfolio

In a landmark move that reshapes the competitive landscape of the food industry, Saco Foods has finalized the acquisition of Quinoa Corporation, including its renowned brands Ancient Harvest and Pamela’s Products. The deal, which was officially announced on August 20, 2024, marks a significant expansion for Saco Foods, a key player in the niche market of high-quality food products. The financial terms of the acquisition have not been disclosed, reflecting a growing trend of private deals in the sector.

Quinoa Corporation’s Legacy and Impact

Founded in 1983, Ancient Harvest has been a pioneer in popularizing quinoa in the United States, a grain known for its high nutritional value and versatility. Ancient Harvest’s role in introducing quinoa to American consumers helped establish it as a superfood staple. The brand’s product lineup includes a diverse array of plant-based foods such as gluten-free pasta, polenta, and an extensive range of quinoa varieties. Ancient Harvest has maintained a strong market position by focusing on organic and non-GMO ingredients, catering to the rising demand for health-conscious food options.

Pamela’s Products, acquired by Quinoa Corporation in 2019, brings a rich history of innovation in the gluten-free category. Founded in 1988, Pamela’s is celebrated for its extensive range of gluten-free baking mixes and baked goods. Notable products include pancake mixes, snack bars, flours, and its market-leading gluten-free graham crackers and fruit-filled cookies. Pamela’s commitment to quality and its strong customer base make it a valuable addition to Saco’s portfolio.

Saco Foods’ Strategic Expansion

Saco Foods, established in 1973 and headquartered in Middleton, Wisconsin, is renowned for its branded, niche market food products. The company’s portfolio features well-regarded shelf-stable brands like Saco Pantry, Dolci Frutta, California Sun Dry, Hoosier Hill Farm, and Solo Foods. This acquisition further diversifies Saco’s offerings and strengthens its presence in the plant-based and gluten-free markets, aligning with the company’s strategy to enhance its product range and market reach.

Tom Walzer, CEO of Saco Foods, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, highlighting the strategic fit of these brands within Saco’s existing portfolio. “We are thrilled to welcome Ancient Harvest and Pamela’s into our family of brands,” Walzer said. “Broadening our offering with their quality products complements our existing portfolio and leverages our shared service platform to improve service and reinvest in innovation to drive the organic growth of these great legacy brands.”

John Becker’s New Role and Vision

John Becker, the former CEO of Quinoa Corporation and now President of Ancient Harvest and Pamela’s, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Becker has been instrumental in Quinoa Corporation’s growth and is expected to lead the integration of these brands into Saco Foods effectively. “I am excited to be joining the Saco platform, as it is a natural fit for our brands,” Becker commented. “With the support of Saco, we have a great opportunity to reinvigorate these brands and expand our distribution while maintaining the high quality standards our customers and end consumers expect.”

Industry Impact and Future Outlook

The acquisition of Quinoa Corporation’s brands positions Saco Foods to leverage growing consumer trends favoring plant-based and gluten-free products. This strategic expansion is expected to enhance Saco’s market presence and operational capabilities, potentially driving further growth. Industry analysts view the acquisition as a smart move, allowing Saco Foods to capitalize on the increasing demand for high-quality, health-conscious food options and to strengthen its competitive edge.

The integration of Ancient Harvest and Pamela’s into Saco Foods’ portfolio underscores the company’s commitment to delivering premium food products and driving innovation in the food industry. As Saco Foods continues to expand and evolve, the addition of these leading brands represents a significant step forward in its growth strategy.