PHOENIX — Private equity firm Swander Pace Capital has acquired Café Valley, manufacturer of sweet baked goods for retail and food service channels across the United States and Canada. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Founded in 1986, Café Valley produces bakery products for in-store bakeries, club stores, food service and convenience stores at its two production facilities in Phoenix and Marion, Ind. The company’s offerings include croissants, muffins, bundt cakes, ring cakes, loaf cakes, Danishes, turnovers and cafe bites.
Brian Owens, chief executive officer of Café Valley, will continue to serve as the brand’s c.e.o. under its new ownership. Mr. Owens’ career includes leadership positions at Aryzta L.L.C. and Il Fornaio.
“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,” said Tyler Matlock, director at Swander Pace Capital. “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.”
The acquisition adds Café Valley to Swander Pace’s food and beverage portfolio, which also includes Bäckerhaus Veit, Fine Choice Foods, Voortman Bakery, Alden’s Organic, Kicking Horse Coffee, Frozen Specialties, Applegate, Pineridge Bakery, Liberte, Nonni’s, Fleischmann’s Vinegar and Ideal Snacks.
“I am excited to work with the talented team at Swander Pace to increase our market share, product offering and distribution footprint,” Mr. Owens said. “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.”