Peterson Brands, a provider of fruit and vegetable beverages, has acquired Akron, Ohio-based Country Pure Foods, a producer of portioned and multi-serve juices, plant-based beverages and frozen novelties.
Peterson Brands, a part of Peterson Family Farms of Companies, says this acquisition strengthens its position in key beverage categories and expands its presence in retail and foodservice markets.
Country Pure Foods operates multiple manufacturing facilities across the U.S., including locations in Akron, Ohio; Howey-In-The-Hills, Fla.; Ellington, Conn.; and DeLand, Fla.
With this addition, Country Pure Foods brings a broad portfolio of brands, including Ardmore Farms, SideKicks, VBlend, FUN!, VitaMost, and Glacier Valley, along with extensive private label and co-manufacturing capabilities. Peterson Brands says Country Pure Foods serves a diverse customer base in K-12 schools, healthcare, restaurants and retail, providing beverage solutions that meet evolving nutritional and menu needs.
“Country Pure Foods’ product expertise, channel strength and long-standing customer relationships make them a natural addition to our organization,” says Aaron Peterson, chief executive officer of the Peterson Farms Family of Companies. “Together, we will expand our ability to deliver high-quality, innovative beverage solutions to customers nationwide.”
Peterson Brands says this addition also enhances its manufacturing and distribution capabilities and during this integration period, day-to-day operations at Country Pure Foods will continue without immediate changes. The companies say the operations will work together to ensure a smooth transition for employees, customers and partners.
“This acquisition represents a long-term investment in people, capabilities and innovation,” Peterson says. “We look forward to combining the strengths of both companies to create new opportunities for the customers and communities we serve.”
Peterson Brands, which operates within the broader Peterson Farms Family of Companies, is headquartered in Shelby, Mich., and also includes Peterson Farms Inc., Peterson Farms Fresh, Lakewood Organic, and Fresh Innovations California. Collectively, the family of companies serves retail, foodservice, K-12 and industrial markets across processed fruit, fresh-cut produce, branded beverages, organic juices and functional nutrition.
