Colavita Expands Its Italian Heritage with Vitelli Foods Acquisition

In a significant move set to reshape its product offerings, Colavita USA, a prestigious name in premium Italian specialty foods, has announced the acquisition of Vitelli Foods. This acquisition not only expands Colavita's product range but also fortifies its stature as the third-largest importer of Italian pasta within the U.S.

A Legacy of Quality and Tradition

Founded in 1885, the Luigi Vitelli brand represents a rich history and tradition in Italian cuisine, being the first Italian food brand registered in America. Giovanni Colavita, CEO of Colavita USA, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, emphasizing the importance of preserving the legacy established by the Vitelli family. The company aims to honor the works of Claudia Vitelli and Roy Taormina, who helped shape the brand's reputation over the years.

"Luigi Vitelli is an iconic brand that we want to preserve and introduce to the next generations, continuing the great work done by Claudia Vitelli and Roy Taormina," Colavita stated. With the 125th anniversary of Vitelli's membership in the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the U.S. approaching, the acquisition represents a timely opportunity to strengthen ties to Italian culinary heritage.

Expanding the Portfolio

Colavita's acquisition of Vitelli Foods follows its successful integration of another California-based company, O Olive Oil & Vinegar, a top producer of premium olive oil and vinegar. This strategy underscores Colavita's commitment to offering high-quality Italian products to its customers. The acquisition of Vitelli Foods introduces a diverse range of pasta, beans, and specialties into Colavita's portfolio, appealing to the growing consumer market for authentic Italian food products.

Enhancing Market Position

The strategic move enhances Colavita's presence in both the pasta and tomato markets. As consumer preference shifts increasingly towards premium and authentic food products, this acquisition positions Colavita to capture a larger share of the market. By leveraging its extensive distribution network and industry knowledge, Colavita aims to elevate the reach and recognition of Luigi Vitelli products, showcasing their rich history and authentic Italian quality.

Under this new banner, Colavita intends to accelerate the recognition of Vitelli Foods across retail channels and eCommerce. With Vitelli's products already in major supermarket chains, this acquisition allows Colavita to strengthen its relationship with distributors and elevate brand visibility across the nation.

The Future of Vitelli Foods

Claudia Vitelli, a descendant of the founding family, continues to manage the company, ensuring that the brand remains true to its roots while adapting it to modern consumer preferences. Today’s Vitelli operates far differently than it did in 1885, when it primarily served the needs of Italian immigrants in New York City. It has since evolved into a well-respected name associated with quality Italian foods found throughout the U.S.

About Colavita

Founded in 1938, Colavita remains a family-owned business committed to delivering high-quality Italian specialties. With its products available in over 80 countries, it has built a reputation for excellence, particularly for its extra virgin olive oil and pasta. All Colavita facilities adhere to strict quality assurance principles and are certified by GFSI, highlighting their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Their operational practices include the use of solar energy for their facilities in the U.S. and Italy.

For more details about Colavita and its range of products, visit colavita.com.

The future looks bright for Colavita as they incorporate Vitelli Foods into their esteemed lineage, carrying forward a legacy dedicated to the flavors and traditions of Italy.