Canada’s Furlani Foods has struck a deal south of the US border to buy Cole’s Quality Foods, a move that will bring together two garlic-bread suppliers.  

Furlani Foods said the transaction will create “production, innovation, and supply chain advantages”. 

Furlani Foods CEO Jonathan Kawaja said the deal brings an “expanded product line, greater capacity, and improved service”. 

Cole’s Quality Foods, established in 1943, is said to have “introduced” frozen garlic bread in North America.

It has since expanded its product line to include offerings such as twisted and cheese-filled garlic breadsticks.  

The company operates production facilities in Muskegon, Michigan and in North Liberty, Iowa. Its products are available at “leading” US retailers under the Cole’s brand. 

Furlani Foods, founded nearly 30 years ago, manages three bakeries located in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, and Mississauga, Ontario.

Its garlic breads include garlic Texas toast, loaves, rolls, breadsticks, and bread knots.  

The company supplies frozen garlic bread to retailers such as Walmart and Aldi in the US, as well as foodservice operators across North America.

Upon the completion of the acquisition, the combined entity will operate under the Furlani Foods brand, with Kawaja continuing as CEO.

Cole’s CEO Scott Devon said: “This acquisition is a combination of two enduring, family-founded companies and trusted consumer brands.  

“We are aligned on dedication to customer service, quality, innovation, and sustainability. This is good news for the future of the company, our customers, and ultimately our consumers.” 

The acquisition is anticipated to be finalised in the first quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals.

In May 2023, Furlani Foods received an undisclosed investment from US-based private-equity firm Entrepreneurial Equity Partners.