Hometown Food Company to Acquire Iconic Chef Boyardee Brand from Conagra Brands

Hometown Food Company Acquires Chef Boyardee Brand

Hometown Food Company, a member of the Brynwood Partners portfolio, recently announced a remarkable acquisition of the cherished Chef Boyardee brand from Conagra Brands, Inc. for $600 million. This strategic move not only strengthens Hometown’s offerings but also marks a pivotal moment in Brynwood's history, as it’s the largest acquisition the firm has pursued in its 40 years.

In detail, the agreement includes the purchase of a sprawling 820,000 square foot manufacturing facility located in Milton, Pennsylvania, along with all assets and operations linked to the Chef Boyardee brand. The deal is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, pending the necessary regulatory approvals.

Chef Boyardee, established over a century ago by the renowned chef Hector Boiardi, is well known for its delicious and convenient meal options, including its famous Beef Ravioli and Spaghetti & Meatballs. The brand has become an iconic emblem in American homes, earning a reputation for quality and reliability. These products are widely available across grocery stores, mass retailers, and dollar stores throughout the U.S., with a significant market presence in Canada and Puerto Rico.

With this acquisition, Hometown Food Company will increase its total gross revenues to over $1.6 billion and expand its manufacturing footprint to four facilities across the U.S., employing around 1,500 individuals. The Milton facility, with its 500 employees, will integrate seamlessly with Hometown's current operations, further enhancing the company’s capabilities.

Henk Hartong, Chairman and CEO of Brynwood Partners, expressed excitement about the acquisition, stating, “The Chef Boyardee acquisition marks the single largest acquisition in Brynwood's 40-year history. We are thrilled to welcome this iconic brand into our portfolio of nostalgic products with rich heritage.”

Additionally, Tom Polke, President and CEO of Hometown Food Company, shared his optimism for future growth: “We look forward to running the Chef Boyardee business from our corporate headquarters in Chicago and are eager to collaborate with the team at Conagra for a smooth transition of operations.”

This acquisition reflects Brynwood Partners' commitment to enhancing its brand portfolio and solidifying its position in the consumer food sector. Since its inception, Brynwood has cultivated a diverse array of brands, acquiring several well-known names such as Pillsbury, Hungry Jack, and Birch Benders, and maintaining a robust manufacturing network that now includes 20 facilities and approximately 5,500 employees across the United States, generating over $3.7 billion in annual sales.

As this new chapter begins for the Chef Boyardee brand, Hometown Food Company is poised to revitalize its market presence. The company aims to not only maintain the trust and loyalty amassed over generations among consumers but also to explore innovative product formats that appeal to a new audience.

Conclusion

The acquisition of Chef Boyardee is more than just a business expansion for Hometown Food Company; it signifies a strategic investment in a legacy brand with a commitment to innovation and quality. As they embark on this journey, both Hometown and Chef Boyardee are looking forward to exciting developments ahead that promise to delight families and food lovers across the nation.