Calbee Buys American Savory Snack Manufacturer

Calbee America has agreed to acquire a majority stake of US savory snack manufacturer Warnock Food Products, in a move to diversify its product portfolio for the American market.

US subsidiary of the Japanese snack food maker Calbee has acquired an 80% controlling interest in Warnock’s share capital. The deal was secured on 25 October 2019. As part of its growth strategy, Calbee has positioned the expansion of its North American market as one of the key regions.

Warnock Food Products was founded in 1986 and is headquartered in Madera, California, Warnock. The company manufacturers branded and private label snack foods including classic potato chips and kettle potato chips. Its portfolio includes better-for-your offers including organic, vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, kosher, whole grain and peanut-free snacks.

In a similar vein, in October last year, Calbee expanded its reach by acquiring British brand Seabrook Crisps, in a move to strengthen its position in the European snack market. The deal was carried out through Calbee’s UK subsidiary, which was founded in 2015.