Arbor’s Longstanding Baking Expertise Drives the Move (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Chicago – Arbor Investments completed the acquisition of Furlani Foods from Entrepreneurial Equity Partners, marking a key expansion in the specialty bakery market.[1][2]
Arbor’s Longstanding Baking Expertise Drives the Move
The Chicago-based private equity firm has now invested in 19 baking businesses across its funds.[1] This purchase represents the third platform investment for Arbor Investments VI and builds on prior successes like Crown Bakeries and Golden Waffles.
Greg Purcell, co-founder and CEO of Arbor, highlighted the firm’s passion for the sector. “From tortillas and croissants to waffles and pastries, I’ve always had a soft spot for baking businesses,” he stated. “Our philosophy is to invest in taste and value, and Furlani hits the mark on both.”[1]
Arbor maintained a dedicated baking platform in each of its previous funds, including Rise Baking in Fund III and Gold Standard Baking in Fund II. The strategy underscores a consistent focus on growth opportunities within food manufacturing.
Furlani Foods: A Leader in Specialty Garlic Breads
Furlani Foods, headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, stands as one of North America’s largest producers of frozen and ambient garlic bread products.[2] The company operates state-of-the-art facilities in Oak Creek, Wisconsin; North Liberty, Iowa; and Mississauga.
Its product lineup features homemade-quality items such as garlic Texas toast, cheese bread, breadsticks, and garlic knots. These sell under the Furlani and Cole’s brands, alongside private-label programs for grocery retailers and foodservice operators.
- Garlic Texas toast
- Garlic bread
- Cheese bread
- Breadsticks
- Garlic knots
- Dinner rolls
In December 2024, Furlani acquired Cole’s Quality Foods, enhancing its capabilities and customer ties during e2p’s ownership.[2]
Seamless Leadership Transition Ensures Continuity
Jonathan Kawaja, Furlani’s CEO for nearly a decade, and the senior leadership team will remain in their roles post-acquisition.[1] This continuity supports ongoing operations and innovation.
John Jordan, president at Arbor, praised the team’s track record. “Jonathan and the Furlani team have established themselves as leaders in the specialty garlic bread category by making significant investments in capacity and innovation over the years,” he noted.[2]
Kawaja expressed optimism about the partnership. “Arbor’s know-how and resources in the baking industry, combined with a shared vision positions us well to continue serving our customers and consumers at the highest level,” he said.[1]
Outlook Signals Accelerated Expansion
Under e2p since May 2023, Furlani expanded manufacturing capacity while upholding quality standards, as noted by partner Ryan Schweet.[2] Arbor plans to sustain this momentum through investments in capital expenditures and product development.
The deal positions Furlani to capture new customers and channels. Jordan emphasized alignment with Arbor’s approach: continued focus on growth and innovation to meet retailer demands.
Key Takeaways
- Arbor gains a major player in frozen garlic breads, bolstering its 19-baking-company portfolio.
- Furlani’s leadership stays intact, promising smooth integration and expansion.
- Expect more investments in capacity and innovation to drive market growth.
This acquisition reinforces Arbor’s dominance in food manufacturing while propelling Furlani into its next growth phase. What do you think about the future of specialty bakery products? Tell us in the comments.
