HC Private Investments Forms Artisan Bakery Through Acquisition of Snackwerks and Specialty Bakers
Backed by a seasoned leadership team and a legacy dating to 1901, the new company combines premium capabilities and a national footprint to serve both retail and co-manufacturing bakery markets
IMAGE COURTESY OF: HC Private Investments
HC Private Investments, a Chicago-based family office, announced the formation of Artisan Bakery, a premium baked goods and snack manufacturer, through the acquisitions of Snackwerks and Specialty Bakers. With a combined heritage dating back to 1901 and a national manufacturing footprint, Artisan Bakery is uniquely positioned to deliver premium, indulgent bakery products across retail and co-manufacturing channels. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
As part of the transaction, industry veterans Liz Barnett, Jeff Grogg, Purav Patel and Kirk Trofholz — each bringing decades of experience in bakery operations, food innovation, and CPG growth strategy — will join the company’s board of directors. Kirk Trofholz, former CEO of Nielsen-Massey and president of Dawn Foods, will serve as executive chairman, bringing deep category expertise and operational leadership to Artisan Bakery. Additionally, Jeff Grogg, previous owner of Snackwerks, will remain a significant equity owner.
Headquartered in Marysville, Pa., Specialty Bakers is the market leader with several in-store bakery products. Jack Eckerd, who has been with Specialty Bakers since 2000, will continue to serve as CEO for the combined company.
Headquartered in Battle Creek, Mich., Snackwerks is a trusted co-manufacturer for established and fast-growing brands, driven by its advanced R&D and production capabilities. Snackwerks’ product portfolio spans cookies, granola, and snack bars, with the capability to produce a wide variety of other items as well.
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