Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) has announced the acquisition of New Jersey-based processor of ultra-pasteurised dairy products Cumberland Dairy.
Cumberland manufactures products for quick-service restaurants, convenience and grocery chains, and wholesale food distributors.
The acquisition of aligns with DFA’s strategy to expand the cooperative’s commercial investments and ownership into extended shelf life processing.
Cumberland Dairy was founded in 1933 by Charles Catalana. Today, Carmine IV, Frank and David Catalana lead Cumberland’s 180 employees.
The business will continue to operate as Cumberland Dairy and employees will retain their current positions. The Catalana family and existing management team will continue to manage all day-to-day operations, including customer relationships, milk procurement and production.
Innovation Foods, a juice and beverage manufacturer founded by the Catalanas in 2008, is not included in this transaction. It will remain independent and wholly-owned by the family.
DFA president Rick Smith said the deal represents the cooperative’s commitment to expand investments in processing and grow in the US dairy industry.
“The Catalanas’ values and passion for the industry align closely with those of our cooperative, and we believe this is a tremendous opportunity to expand upon the foundation of quality products and superior service already in place at Cumberland Dairy,” he said.
Cumberland Dairy president Carmine Catalana IV added: “For 85 years, Cumberland Dairy has been intently focused on our mission to deliver high-quality products and dedicated service to our loyal customers.
“Looking ahead, a future with DFA means that we can continue to focus on our values as a company while accelerating our opportunities for growth. This is a very exciting time for the entire Cumberland Dairy family, and we look forward to this next chapter with DFA.”
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