US-based bread and rolls maker Engelman’s Baking Co. has acquired local peer St. Armands Baking Co. for an undisclosed fee.

Engelman’s, which is backed by Florida-based private-equity firm Shoreline Equity Partners, said the deal has expanded its “manufacturing and customer footprint as well as enhancing the platform’s channel diversification”, according to a statement.

Based in Bradenton, Florida, St. Armands was founded in 1981 and services retail and foodservice customers across the country with a variety of buns, rolls and organic bread products.

Rob Hathy, CEO of Engelman’s, said: “We are very excited to partner with the St. Armands team. Bringing together the exceptional talent and culture that both companies share will allow us to have a broader product portfolio and better service our customers.”

Based in Norcross, Georgia, Engelman’s was founded in 1982 as a full-line retail bakery. The retail operation evolved into a 100% wholesale business, and in 1997 the company relocated to its current 50,000 sq ft facility in Norcross.

Engelman’s manufactures artisan breads and rolls including European and hearth breads, Kaiser and twisted egg rolls, speciality dinner rolls and hamburger and hot dog buns. 

Bernard Vroom, owner of St. Armands, added: “St. Armands would not be in the position it is today without the dedication and hard work of our employees. Joining forces with Engelman’s will provide us with the resources and capabilities needed to accelerate our growth.”

Earlier this year, Shoreline booked an undisclosed investment in Prime Meats, a US processor and supplier to retail and foodservice.

Shoreline has more than $750m under management and targets single investments in the region of $150m. The private-equity firm seeks out businesses generating annual revenues of $50-$350m and EBITDA of $5m to $25m..