Acquisition enhances Rich’s bakery business with new line of specialty breads and rolls
BUFFALO, N.Y. (July 21, 2021) – Global, family-owned food company Rich Products recently announced the expansion of its bakery portfolio with the acquisition of Signature Breads, a decades-long leader in specialty breads and rolls. Rich Products will continue to produce key Signature Breads products like baguettes, ciabatta, and one-of-a-kind sandwich and dinner rolls, and the acquisition expands Rich’s offerings in the par- and fully baked bread and roll categories.
“When Signature Breads decided to cease operations, we recognized an opportunity to enhance our business with its exceptional product portfolio,” said Ray Burke, president and chief operating officer, U.S./Canada Region, Rich Products. “The acquisition allows our customers to purchase core Signature Breads offerings to help meet the demand for clean label, preservative-free and healthy options expected by today’s consumers. On top of that, Signature Breads’ customers now have greater access to Rich’s growing and diversified Value Added Bakery portfolio.”
Production of Signature Breads’ products will move to Rich’s manufacturing sites in Fridley, Minn and Ft. Erie, Canada. The transition also brings two former Signature Breads associates to the Rich’s family. Heidi Keathley has assumed the position of national business development manager – breads/rolls and is based in greater Boston. Keathley served for more than five years with Signature Breads, most recently as vice president of sales and marketing, and brings an exceptional foodservice industry background, including almost nine years with Tyson Foods.
Portland, Ore.-based Ryan Baenen joins Rich Products as regional commercial chains manager following a six-year tenure with Signature Breads, where he served as western U.S. regional sales manager. Both appointments are effective immediately.
Media Contact: Allison Conte, aconte@rich.com