The J. M. Smucker Co. closed its acquisition of Hostess Brands, Inc.
Through its wholly owned subsidiary SSF Holdings Inc., The J. M. Smucker Co. acquired Hostess for $34.25 per share in a cash and stock transaction, representing a total enterprise value of approximately $5.6 billion, which includes approximately $900 million of net debt.
“We are excited to formally welcome Hostess Brands and for the tremendous opportunity we have with the combined capabilities our businesses offer,” said Mark Smucker, chair of the board, president and chief executive officer of Smucker’s. “Consumers’ increasing reliance on snacking to fit lifestyle needs and convenience choices has expanded the occasions where the category can deliver, and the sweet baked goods category is one of the largest and fastest growing in the industry. With the Hostess acquisition, we have a strong position in this highly attractive segment with popular brands that consumers love.”
The transaction includes the Hostess sweet baked snacks brands, including Hostess Donettes, Twinkies, CupCakes, DingDongs, Zingers, CoffeeCakes, HoHos, Mini Muffins and Fruit Pies and the Voortman cookie brand. It also includes manufacturing facilities in Emporia, Kansas; Burlington, Ontario; Chicago; Columbus, Georgia; Indianapolis; and Arkadelphia, Arkansas (which is currently under construction) and a distribution facility in Edgerton, Kansas. Additionally, approximately 3,000 employees will join the company in conjunction with the transaction.
“In addition, the synergy of our businesses creates a compelling platform to drive sustainable growth,” said Smucker. “Hostess offers an expanded distribution model, including strength in the convenience-store channel; a robust innovation engine; and extensive manufacturing capabilities. This is complemented by the strong retailer relationships in the grocery and mass channels we have at Smucker; along with our advanced commercial organization, highlighted by our industry leading consumer insights and marketing; and our continuous productivity approach. The combination of these capabilities positions us to deliver on the aspirations we have for the business.”
Smucker's will provide further details about the transaction’s impact on its financial outlook when it reports its second quarter fiscal 2024 results on Dec. 5, according to the company.
Orrville, Ohio-based Smucker's offer consumer products in the coffee, consumer foods, dog snacks and cat food categories under brands including Folgers, Dunkin’, Café Bustelo, Jif, Smucker’s Uncrustables, Smucker’s, Milk-Bone and Meow Mix.
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