Thursday, November 30, 2017

Maple Leaf buys Seattle company

Maple Leaf Foods says it has made a deal to buy Field Roast Grain Meat Co. of Seattle, Wash., for $120 million.

The company makes plant-based meat and cheese products and is the second U.S. company in that business that Maple Leaf has bought this year.

"The acquisition of Field Roast complements and expands our portfolio in the fast-growing North American market for alternative proteins," said Michael McCain, Maple Leaf’s president and chief executive officer.

It also aligns with our vision to be a leader in sustainable protein and create shared value through making a positive social impact. Field Roast has built brand leadership through focusing on quality, craftsmanship and taste, and its acquisition will allow Maple Leaf to fuel growth in the category through investment, brand building and innovation," McCain said.

Field Roast pioneered the development of artisanal quality, grain-based meat products and is a leading brand in the premium segment. It draws on culinary heritage from Europe and Asia in its recipes, using grains, fresh vegetables, dried fruits, wine and spices. Products are marketed across North America and include fresh and frozen grain-based roasts and loaves, sausages and frankfurters, burgers, deli slices and appetizers, and Chao brand vegan cheese slices and entrees. 

The company was founded in 1997 and employs approximately 200 people in a 75,000-square-foot plant it leases in Seattle, Washington.