#USA #Rumiano Cheese #Masters Gallery Foods #cheese supplier #Willows

Masters Gallery Foods Acquires Rumiano Cheese Facility

In a strategic move aimed at enhancing its presence in the West Coast market, Masters Gallery Foods has announced its acquisition of the Rumiano Cheese Company's converting and distribution facility located in Willows, California. This purchase aligns with the company’s initiative to expand its manufacturing capabilities beyond its traditional base in the Midwest, which has primarily centered around Wisconsin.

Founded in 1974, Masters Gallery Foods is well-established in the cheese supply sector, catering to private label retail, food service, and industrial markets. By acquiring Rumiano's facility, which was newly constructed in 2021, the company aims to significantly reduce freight costs associated with transporting cheese from the Midwest to the West Coast. With this acquisition, Masters Gallery Foods will be better equipped to service its customers more effectively and efficiently.

The Rumiano Cheese Company holds the distinction of being California's oldest family-owned cheesemaker and has built a strong reputation for producing high-quality cheese products, including butter and various value-added items. The transition to Masters Gallery Foods is expected to be seamless, given the experienced manufacturing workforce already employed in Willows along with the similarities in operational processes between the two companies.

Jeff Gentine, President and CEO of Masters Gallery Foods, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "This is an exciting opportunity for our customers and us. We are committed to developing the Willows operation, honoring the vision of the Rumiano Family while also establishing a legacy of our own in this region."

The integration of Rumiano Cheese into the Masters Gallery family not only provides a platform for growth in Western markets but is also anticipated to positively affect the local economy in Willows. With nearly 200 employees now part of Masters Gallery Foods, the company is eager to foster community engagement and uphold the original values championed by Rumiano Cheese since its inception in 1919.

John Rumiano, the company’s owner, shared his excitement about the partnership, stating that the merger with Masters Gallery Foods aligns with their family values and preserves the essence of what the Rumiano brand represents. "We are proud to join forces with another family-owned business that understands the narrative of our journey and shares our commitment to excellence," he added.

As part of this strategic acquisition, it is noteworthy that while Masters Gallery Foods will operate the converting and distribution side, the cheesemaking facility in Crescent City, California, has been acquired by Sartori Cheese, a company renowned for its artisan cheese products. Sartori is set to market the Rumiano Family Organics brand, ensuring that both entities can continue to thrive independently while benefiting from shared resources.

Looking Ahead

As Masters Gallery Foods positions itself within the competitive landscape of cheese producers, the acquisition bolsters its operational capability and allows for expansion in a vital market. From fine shredded cheeses to snack varieties, the company’s diverse product offerings can now reach a broader audience on the West Coast. Furthermore, this acquisition reflects the growing demand for premium cheese products across various sectors, including retail and food service.

In conclusion, Masters Gallery Foods’ acquisition of Rumiano Cheese is not just a corporate merger; it’s a commitment to uphold a legacy while paving the way for future growth in a dynamic industry. As the company looks to the West Coast for expansion, they aim to carry forth the tradition of quality and family values that have defined both brands over the decades.