WEST PALM BEACH, FL — AUA Private Equity Partners, a private equity firm focused on investing in Hispanic-oriented and family-owned companies in the consumer products sector, has announced the recapitalization of “Epi Breads” and the formation of Epic Baking Company.
Founded in 1985 in Atlanta, GA, Epi Breads bakes and distributes a wide range of artisan-crafted bread products including hoagies, rolls and buns for leading foodservice chains and grocery retailers. AUA Private Equity will work closely with existing management led by Epi Breads CEO Cheryl Barre and co-founder Nic Mulliez to continue providing strong customer service and high-quality bread to its longstanding customers. Mulliez will continue to serve on the board of Epic Baking Company.
“AUA Private Equity shares our vision for strengthening a customer-first mentality,” Mulliez said. “AUA and the Epic Baking Company board will provide Epi with the expertise and tools it needs to succeed. We look forward to partnering with the AUA team on Epi’s next phase of growth and development.”
To fuel this next phase of growth, AUA is bringing capital and operational expertise to bolster Epi’s capabilities, starting with a new 135,000-sq-ft manufacturing facility in Atlanta, GA. The facility is expected to begin production later this fall.
Founded in 1985 in Atlanta, GA, Epi Breads bakes and distributes a wide range of artisan-crafted bread products including hoagies, rolls and buns for leading foodservice chains and grocery retailers.
“Through AUA and Epi’s new partnership, Epic Baking Company will continue to provide strong customer service through superior product quality and consistency, enhanced product innovation, and a sound balance sheet,” said Kyce Chihi, managing director of AUA Private Equity.
Epi Breads is AUA’s first acquisition on behalf of its new baking platform, Epic Baking Company. The company will seek to invest in artisan bakeries that manufacture, distribute and market bakery products supplying foodservice or retail customers.
