ORRVILLE, OH — The J. M. Smucker Co. announced it has completed the acquisition of Hostess Brands. The company entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the Lenexa, KS-based company in September.
“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, board chair, president and CEO of The J.M. Smucker Co. “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.”
“We are excited to formally welcome Hostess Brands and for the tremendous opportunity we have with the combined capabilities our businesses offer."
— Mark Smucker | board chair, president and CEO | The J.M. Smucker Co.
The transaction includes Hostess sweet goods brands including Donettes, Twinkies, CupCakes, DingDongs, Zingers, CoffeeCakes, HoHos, Mini Muffins and Fruit Pies, and the Voortman cookie brand. It also includes Hostess Brands’ manufacturing facilities in Emporia, KS; Burlington, Ontario; Chicago; Columbus, GA; Indianapolis; and Arkadelphia, AR, which is currently under construction; and a distribution facility in Edgerton, KS.
“In addition, the synergy of our businesses creates a compelling platform to drive sustainable growth,” Smucker said. “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.”
With the completion of the transaction, approximately 3,000 Hostess employees will join The J.M. Smucker Co., which is expected to provide further details about the transaction’s impact on its financial outlook when it reports its Q2 fiscal 2024 results on Dec. 5.
