Mondelēz International has announced that it has acquired Gourmet Food Holdings Pty Ltd – an Australian food company with a “strong position” in the premium biscuit and cracker category.
Gourmet Food has brands including OB finest, Olina’s Bakehouse and Crispbic, and also offers “on-trend innovations” like health and well-being offerings.
Included in the transaction is Gourmet Food’s pre-packaged seafood business including the Ocean Blue brand. There are no closing conditions, and the transaction is expected to close in April.
Dirk Van de Put, Chairman and CEO of Mondelēz International, said: “This is a great strategic asset for us in a very important market. With our iconic biscuit brands such as Oreo and belVita, as well as our leadership in chocolate with Cadbury, this acquisition will accelerate our broader snacking leadership in Australia and New Zealand.”
Oliver Flint, current Chief Operating Officer, has been appointed as Gourmet Food’s Managing Director while co-founder and CEO Todd Wilson will remain with the business as an advisor. Mondelēz International will provide Gourmet Food with resources to accelerate growth, while leveraging its manufacturing, research and development capabilities.
Maurizio Brusadelli, EVP & President, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, Mondelēz International, added: “With fast-growing premium and well-being products, strong customer relationships and agile, local manufacturing, these brands will be a great complement to our local portfolio. We are excited to welcome Oliver, Todd and the entire Gourmet Food team to our organization.”
