Crest Foods Acquired By Private Equity Firm

Crest Foods, a private label dry food manufacturer, has been acquired by Harwood Private Equity, an investor in lower middle market companies. 

According to a press release announcing the deal, the acquisition provides Crest Foods, which is also a provider of dairy stabilizers and contract packaging, a partner who will lead the company into its next phase of growth while maintaining its dedication to providing value-added services to its blue-chip customer base and leading consumer brands.

Founded in 1946, Crest Foods is a leading provider of food manufacturing, packaging, and product development services to branded and private label customers. The company operates three business lines:

• Ingredients: Develops proprietary stabilizer formulations and recipes for dairy products, including cottage cheese, cream cheese, yogurt, and dairy protein- and plant-based beverages.
• Contract Packaging: Provides packaging services to branded and private-label dry food companies.
• Consumer Products: Specializes in outsource product development and turn-key manufacturing services for branded food companies.

Harwood has investment experience across a variety of industries, including food and beverage, life sciences, precision manufacturing, media, and healthcare services.