One of New Zealand’s leading consumer foods businesses, Walter & Wild, has finalised the acquisition for an undisclosed sum of the Emerald Foods Group, the international premium ice cream company and owner of iconic, market-leading Kiwi brands – New Zealand Natural, Killinchy Gold, Zilch and Chateau. Emerald Foods Group also operate Movenpick under licence in New Zealand.
Walter & Wild founder and owner Harry Hart says, “This is a major acquisition for our business and an avenue into an attractive growth sector of the FMCG, foodservice and retail markets. It is a good news story, bringing a New Zealand-founded business with well-loved brands back into New Zealand ownership.”
Walter & Wild Chief Operating Officer Isi Tupou says, “These are quality, quintessential New Zealand brands that are synonymous with Kiwi summers and holidays. The acquisition is a highly positive result for both businesses. As always, we are committed to providing high-quality products at high service levels for all customers and distribution channels, while maintaining strong commercial relationships with our suppliers.”
The business was formed by Harry Hart with the acquisition over time of four separate consumer foods companies: Hubbard Foods, Hansells Food Group, Greggs and I Love Food. Iconic brands such as Hubbards, Aunt Betty’s, Alfa One and Greggs are paired with more disruptive brands such as I Love, Vitasport and Snack Org. Emerald Foods joins this family of brands, which now encompasses more than 500 products, reaching consumers from breakfast to dessert.
The acquisition gives Walter & Wild 350+ staff across New Zealand and Australia.
About Walter & Wild Limited
Walter & Wild Limited (formerly HFG Group Limited) is a private company, owned by New Zealand investor Harry Hart. It is a leading consumer foods business based in Auckland, New Zealand. Its main markets are New Zealand, Australia and the United Kingdom where it occupies No 1 or No 2 market share positions across the majority of its portfolio.
www.walterandwild.com
About Emerald Foods Group Limited
Emerald Foods Group Limited is an international premium ice cream company. Established in 1985, Emerald Foods owns market-leading brands such as New Zealand Natural, Killinchy Gold, Zilch and Chateau. Currently exporting to 18 countries, they have offices in Auckland, Melbourne and Shanghai. Their products are distributed across a number of channels such as grocery, food service and ice cream parlours. This includes strong partnerships with some of the largest retailers in the world.
