The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

US snack manufacturer J&J Snack Foods has signed an agreement to acquire beaded ice cream producer Dippin' Dots for $222 million. Founded in 1988, Dippin’ Dots produces beaded ice creams using a patented cryogenic freezing process. Headquartered in Paducah, Kentucky, the company leases four frozen warehouses located in California, Canada, Australia and China. J&J Snack Foods president and CEO Dan Fachner said: “With this acquisition, we can further leverage our combined strength in entertainment and amusement locations, theatres, convenience and supermarkets to realise added scale, operational and go-to-market synergies and create new selling opportunities among an expanded customer base". Dippin’ Dots CEO Scott Fischer added: “As a leader in the snack industry with a number of iconic brands and a strong record of product innovation, we believe J&J Snacks Foods is well-positioned to leverage our unique offering in the market and improve and grow the business going forward”. The deal, which is subject to customary conditions, is expected to close by the end of June.