#United States #Austin #Hormel Foods #Justin's #Forward Consumer

Hormel Foods and Forward Consumer Partners Seal Agreement for Justin's

In a significant move that reshapes the landscape of branded food products, Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), a leading global food company, has partnered with Forward Consumer Partners, a private investment firm dedicated to outstanding consumer brands. This partnership, finalized on December 15, 2025, marks an important transition for the Justin's brand, known for its premium nut butters and organic chocolates.

Under the new agreement, Justin's will operate independently, with its ownership split 51% in favor of Forward and the remaining 49% held by Hormel Foods. This restructuring is accompanied by the return of Justin Gold, the original founder of Justin's, who has rejoined the company to provide strategic oversight as an advisor and board member. Peter Burns, previously the CEO of Justin's before its acquisition by Hormel in 2016, returns as the new CEO of the company, leading a team of experienced executives.

The leadership team includes Hunt Killough as Chief Growth Strategy Officer, Mark Doiron as Chief Sales Officer, and Jeff Perkel as Senior Vice President of Marketing and E-commerce. Each member of the team brings a wealth of experience and a history with Justin's that is expected to foster further innovation and growth.

Joining the management ranks are David Ziegert as Chief Operating Officer and Randy Gilbride as Vice President of Brand Commercial Strategy. Both Ziegert and Gilbride offer extensive expertise in the packaged food sector, which will contribute to Justin’s ambitious growth objectives. Additionally, Val Oswalt, currently CEO of Kodiak and a founding member of Forward’s advisory board, has been appointed to the board of directors, thereby enriching the company's strategic capabilities.

The potential of the Justin's brand is significant, with a strong portfolio of products that includes nut butters recognized for their exceptional taste and nutritional value. The company's mission, rooted in providing high-quality, convenient food options, aligns perfectly with the evolving consumer landscape that increasingly favors healthy and accessible snacks. Forward’s managing partner, Matt Leeds, expressed enthusiasm about this new chapter for Justin's, noting the brand's outstanding prospects for future growth and maturation.

Hormel Foods’ president, John Ghingo, reaffirmed the company's commitment to supporting brands like Justin's by providing the necessary resources and focus on innovation. This partnership not only aims to enhance Justin's market position but also illustrates Hormel's broader strategy of fostering its brand portfolio in a dynamic commercial environment.

About Justin's
Founded in 2004, Justin's originated from the kitchen of health advocate Justin Gold. The company specializes in high-quality nut butters, organic nut-butter cups, and plant-based snacks that resonate with health-conscious consumers. Each product is crafted to support an active lifestyle, showcasing a unique grinding texture and an emphasis on natural ingredients. Justin's commitment to sustainability and community reflects its passion for building a resilient food culture.

About Forward Consumer Partners
Forward Consumer Partners is focused on investing in beloved brands that have a strong consumer appeal. With $425 million committed through its debut fund, Forward empowers its portfolio companies, providing the tools and strategic direction needed to achieve their full potential. The firm’s widely recognized portfolio includes brands like Kodiak, Justin's, and many more.

About Hormel Foods
Hormel Foods Corporation, headquartered in Austin, Minnesota, is recognized as a powerhouse in the global food industry, boasting an extensive portfolio of brands that includes PLANTERS®, SKIPPY®, and SPAM®. The company prides itself on delivering quality products while maintaining a commitment to corporate responsibility and community engagement. With over $12 billion in annual revenue, Hormel Foods continues to inspire consumers with innovative and trusted food solutions.