Smucker acquires iconic snack brand Hostess

The J. M. Smucker Co. signs a definitive agreement to acquire Hostess Brands for US$34.25 per share in a cash and stock transaction, representing a total enterprise value of approximately US$5.6 billion, which includes approximately US$900 million of net debt.

The transaction includes the Hostess Brands sweet baked goods brands (Hostess Donettes, Twinkies, CupCakes, DingDongs, Zingers, CoffeeCakes, HoHos, Mini Muffins and Fruit Pies) and the Voortman cookie brand, along with manufacturing facilities in Emporia, Kan.; Burlington, Ont.; Chicago, Ill.; Columbus, Ga.; Indianapolis, Ind.; and Arkadelphia, Ark. (which is currently under construction) and a distribution facility in Edgerton, Kan. Additionally, approximately 3,000 employees will join the company in conjunction with the transaction.

The acquisition adds Hostess Brands’ iconic snacks in the sweet baked goods category to Smucker’s current offering of coffee, peanut butter, frozen handheld, fruit spreads, dog snacks and cat food categories.

“We are excited to announce the acquisition of Hostess Brands, which represents a compelling expansion of our family of brands and a unique opportunity to accelerate our focus on delighting consumers with convenient solutions across different meal and snacking occasions,” said Mark Smucker, CEO.

Andy Callahan, CEO of Hostess Brands commented, “I am extremely proud of the entire Hostess Brands team for the legacy they created in building a premier snacking company and driving industry leading returns for our investors. Today represents another exciting chapter for Hostess Brands as we combine our iconic snacking brands with The J.M. Smucker Co.’s family of beloved brands. We believe this is the right partnership to accelerate growth and create meaningful value for consumers, customers and shareholders.”