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Fortifi Food Processing Solutions has acquired I.J. White Systems (IJW), strengthening its food processing equipment portfolio with additional spiral cooling, freezing and conveying technologies.

The acquisition will expand Fortifi's capabilities across bakery and prepared foods, as well as dairy, protein and seafood processing.

Founded in 1919, I.J. White Systems is a US-based designer and manufacturer of specialised spiral cooling, freezing and conveying systems. Its portfolio also includes proofing, hot-hold, pouch and hydro-chilling, in-pan cooling, and cleaning and sanitation solutions.

The company designs and manufactures its equipment at its facility in Farmingdale, New York. Its Ultra Series Systems incorporate refrigeration, heating, hydrothermal and steam technologies to provide controlled heat transfer, with operating temperatures ranging from +210°F to -40°F.

The acquisition adds to Fortifi's thermal-processing portfolio and reflects growing demand for cooling and freezing technologies across food manufacturing.

In bakery, in particular, frozen product formats are creating opportunities for manufacturers to centralise production before shipping products for finishing closer to the point of sale. According to Fortifi, this approach can help processors reach wider markets while supporting the production of specialty and preservative-free bakery products.

Massimo Bizzi, CEO of Fortifi, said the acquisition would enable the company to offer more comprehensive solutions to food processors by combining I.J. White's engineering expertise with its existing capabilities.

Mark Dowdle, executive vice-president of strategy and business development at Fortifi, highlighted increasing demand for specialty bakery products and diverse ready-to-eat foods as drivers of investment in reliable cooling, freezing and product-handling systems.

He added that Fortifi intends to use its international commercial presence and regional service capabilities to expand the reach of I.J. White's technologies into Europe, Latin America, Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

The acquisition also marks a new chapter for the family-owned business, which was founded by Irving John White in lower Manhattan. After beginning as a reseller and manufacturers' representative, I.J. White moved into designing and manufacturing vertical processing systems in 1965.

Peter White, president and CEO of I.J. White Systems, said joining Fortifi would provide a strong platform for the company's future, citing shared commitments to customer needs and engineering solutions that deliver long-term value.

As part of the transaction, I.J. White employees will join Fortifi's broad-based ownership programme, giving them the opportunity to participate in the benefits of equity ownership.

Nunn & Associates Advisors acted as exclusive financial adviser to I.J. White Systems.