Tree of Life Canada (TOLC) has acquired Northbud Distributors, which will dramatically increase the company’s frozen and refrigerated capabilities for retail, as well as its foodservice products.
TOLC, whose parent company is KeHE Distributors, is one of the largest distributors of specialty and natural foods in Canada, operating coast to coast. It has the largest specialty food sales force in the country, representing nationally recognized brands. Northbud Distributors is a food distribution and brokerage business in Canada for more than 40 years.
“This is an opportunity for our vendor partners to reach more doors across Canada, and to increase and strengthen our sales support throughout the country,” said Peter Clarke, vice president of sales and marketing for Northbud, who will be joining TOLC as the vice president and general manager, Northbud.
Northbud Distributors will be merged into the TOLC business over the next 12 months. All Northbud trade programs and terms will remain in place during this transition.
“We’re very excited to welcome Peter Clarke and the Northbud team into the Tree of Life family,” said Jamie Moody, president, TOLC. “Tree of Life’s strategy is to offer class-leading category expertise in our specialty categories. The addition of the Northbud portfolio gives us greater presence in the perimeter of the store categories that continue to experience high growth.”
Brandon Barnholt president and CEO of KeHE Distributors, said: “We are extremely excited about this acquisition as it is a perfect complement to our existing Canadian portfolio. The purchase is consistent with our growth strategy across North America.”
Northbud’s primary focus is on the distribution of refrigerated and frozen value-added meat, poultry and deli products, and other grocery products. Northbud represents principals including Kraft Foods, Buddig, Hillshire Brands and Advance Pierre Foods. Executives said the acquisition will complement TOLC product offerings and provide new national key account, direct store delivery and logistical coverage in Canada.
KeHE Distributors, based in Romeoville, Ill., provides natural, organic, specialty and gourmet, international and multicultural, and fresh products to more than 35,000 retail outlets throughout North America.
