AUSTIN, MINN. — Hormel Foods Corp. is acquiring Brakebush Brothers LLC, Westfield, Wis., a processor of value-added chicken, for approximately $1.06 billion.  

“Brakebush is a highly respected leader in value-added chicken and has earned the trust of customers for more than 100 years through innovation, quality and exceptional relationships,” said Jeff Ettinger, interim chief executive officer of Hormel Foods. “The company’s talented team, strong culture and differentiated capabilities make it an excellent fit for Hormel Foods. Our industry-leading Foodservice business has been a source of growth, and we are excited to meaningfully expand our presence in value-added chicken.”

Hormel’s Foodservice business unit has been a bright spot for the company recently. The business generates approximately one-third of Hormel’s sales and half of its profits.

“Chicken has been one of the most attractive growth categories in protein, and Brakebush has built an exceptional platform to serve that demand,” said John Ghingo, president and CEO-elect of Hormel. “Hormel Foods has built a strong Foodservice business by helping operators succeed through innovation, service and value-added solutions. We believe that Brakebush will bolster our capabilities, bringing additional scale, expertise and customer reach, in support of our long-term growth strategy.”

Brakebush, which was founded in 1925, generated approximately $1.2 billion in net sales over the last 12 months, according to Hormel Foods, and operates five manufacturing facilities and two research and development labs. 

“Brakebush has always been a people-first company, built on strong relationships, shared values and a commitment to doing business the right way,” said Carey Brakebush, chairman of the board for Brakebush. “We see those same qualities in Hormel Foods. Their culture, integrity and long-term approach to growth give us great confidence that Brakebush will continue to thrive for our employees, customers and communities in the years ahead.”

Keith Nunes has spent the past 30 years writing about the production, formulation, processing and consumption of food and beverage products. His experience has introduced him to the leaders of the industry's largest companies and the entrepreneurs who are driving change throughout the supply chain. As the editor of Food Business News, he has led the editorial department from a startup in 2005 to the leading news source in the industry on the web and in print today.

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