Cal-Maine Foods to Buy Van’s Foods Brand, Boosting Prepared Foods Sales 10%
CALM•Cal-Maine Foods is acquiring certain assets of the Van’s Foods brand from Sara Lee Frozen Bakery, adding the top gluten-free waffles line. The move is expected to boost prepared foods annual sales by about 10% and volume by approximately 6% pro forma while expanding grocery, e-commerce, and direct-to-consumer channels.
1. Acquisition Details
Cal-Maine Foods will acquire certain assets of the Van’s Foods brand from Sara Lee Frozen Bakery, integrating a category leader in gluten-free waffles into its portfolio. The transaction supports Cal-Maine’s diversification strategy by adding a consumer-facing retail line within its prepared foods business.
2. Sales and Volume Impact
On a pro forma basis, the addition of Van’s Foods is expected to increase Cal-Maine’s prepared foods annual sales by approximately 10% and volume by about 6%. This growth reflects the brand’s strong performance in the better-for-you frozen breakfast segment.
3. Strategic and Operational Synergies
Cal-Maine plans to leverage its scale to improve cost efficiency, quality control, and supply reliability while using its distribution network to broaden Van’s market reach. Cross-selling opportunities, R&D collaboration, and a focus on protein-forward offerings are projected to unlock additional value.
4. Van’s Foods Brand Profile
Van’s Foods holds the top position in gluten-free waffles and enjoys a loyal consumer base drawn to its clean-label, allergy-conscious products. Its lineup includes gluten-free, protein-enhanced, and whole-grain frozen waffles and pancakes tailored to evolving dietary preferences.
