H.I.G. Capital has acquired Patriot Pickle from Swander Pace Capital. The acquisition, announced in January 2024, comes as the New Jersey-based pickle manufacturer embarks on an ambitious expansion into Texas with a new distribution facility.
The deal marks the end of Swander Pace Capital’s ownership, which began in April 2021. During this period, Patriot Pickle underwent significant growth through strategic investments in sales and operational infrastructure and two transformative acquisitions that strengthened its position in the pickled and fermented foods market.
“Patriot Pickle’s impressive platform has grown significantly over the years by delivering on its commitment to the highest quality pickles and best-in-class service,” said Justin Reyna, managing director at H.I.G. Capital. The Miami-based private equity firm, which manages $60 billion in capital, plans to work closely with Patriot’s current management team to accelerate growth.
Texas Expansion Underway
As part of its growth strategy, Patriot Pickle is investing $4.2 million in a new 69,000-square-foot distribution facility at the International Business Center in Garland, Texas. The facility, owned by Lincoln Property Company of Dallas, will strengthen Patriot’s distribution capabilities in the southwestern United States.
The expansion builds upon Patriot’s existing operations, which include state-of-the-art facilities totaling 185,000 square feet. The company, known for its motto “Always Fresh, Always Crisp,” has been serving the food service industry since 2004 with a diverse product line including kosher dill, full sour, sweet horseradish, and various other pickle varieties, as well as sauerkraut and pickled vegetables.
Strategic Growth Plans
Bill McEntee, Patriot Pickle’s C.E.O., will continue to lead the company under H.I.G.’s ownership. The management team’s retention suggests continuity in operations while leveraging H.I.G.’s resources for expansion. The company’s product portfolio, which includes brands such as PickleAde, KZ Brand, Natural Harvest, and Regal Crown, serves thousands of restaurants, delis, supermarkets, and distributors across the United States.
The acquisition by H.I.G. Capital represents a new chapter for Patriot Pickle, which has established itself as a leading specialty food manufacturer. With its S.Q.F. Level 2 and HAACP certifications and a commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly manufacturing practices, the company is well-positioned for continued growth in the competitive food manufacturing landscape.
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