NEW YORK, NY – January 9, 2017 – Vestar Capital Partners (“Vestar”), a leading U.S. middle-market private equity firm, announced today that it accepted a $125 million minority investment in Roland Foods (“Roland”), a Vestar portfolio company and leading provider of superior quality specialty foods. Following the completion of this recapitalization transaction, Vestar will remain the majority shareholder in Roland.
Founded in 1934 and owned by Vestar since 2013, Roland Foods is a recognized leader in the imported specialty foods business in the U.S. and around the globe. The Roland brand is iconic and stands at the forefront of the industry, providing more than 1,500 SKUs to the foodservice, retail, and industrial channels.
“Roland has achieved extraordinary growth since 2013, and we are excited to welcome a new partner who will help to accelerate this already strong momentum,” said Brian O’Connor, managing director of Vestar and co-head of its Consumer Group.
“Given the strong prospects ahead for our business, both organically and through acquisitions, this transaction is an opportunity to provide Roland with the capital flexibility to further our market-leading position,” said Jim Wagner, Roland’s CEO. “With the ongoing support of our partners, we will continue to grow and provide exceptional service, value and quality to all of our customers.”
Wells Fargo Securities, LLC acted as financial advisor to Vestar and Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel.
About Roland Foods
Roland Foods, based in New York City, specializes in importing high-quality specialty food products from more than 50 countries. Founded in Paris in 1934 and established in the U.S. in 1939, the Company provides customers with exceptional specialty foods, primarily offered under the Roland brand. The company has a national presence in the foodservice, retail, and industrial channels as well as international sales in the Caribbean, Central and South America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Roland Foods’ dedication to providing quality and consistency has made it a leader among food importers and suppliers. The Roland brand is synonymous with quality for the consumer and chef alike. For more information, please visit www.rolandfood.com.
About Vestar Capital Partners
Vestar Capital Partners is a leading U.S. middle-market private equity firm specializing in management buyouts and growth capital investments. Vestar invests and collaborates with incumbent management teams and private owners to build long-term enterprise value, with a focus on Consumer, Healthcare, and Business Services and Industrial Products. Since Vestar’s founding in 1988, Vestar funds have completed 78 investments in companies with a total value of more than $46 billion. For more information, please visit www.vestarcapital.com.
Media Contacts:
Vestar Capital Partners
Carol Makovich
Owen Blicksilver Public Relations, Inc.
203-622-4781
