USA: Tropical Cheese acquires Cibao Meat Products to expand refrigerated portfolio

Tropical Cheese, the US-based producer of Hispanic dairy products, has acquired Cibao Meat Products, a manufacturer of Hispanic-style meats, for an undisclosed sum.

Based in Perth Amboy (NJ), Tropical Cheese plans to integrate the business as a new division to provide a more comprehensive portfolio of branded Hispanic refrigerated food products across the US East Coast. Founded in 1969, Cibao Meat Products is a third-generation family business that specialises in products tailored to Latin American tastes, including salami, longaniza, chorizo and jamoneta. Its brand portfolio includes the widely recognised Induveca and Campesino labels.

Vic Mehren, chief executive officer of Tropical Cheese, stated: “This acquisition accelerates Tropical Cheese’s growth by uniting two category leaders in Hispanic foods. With Cibao, we will significantly strengthen our meats division, expand our Hispanic foods platform, and broaden our reach across the food industry and Hispanic community”.

Tropical Cheese, which was itself acquired by private equity firms AUA Private Equity and Avance Investment Management in December 2024, operates a direct-store-delivery network serving retail channels. The company reported estimated annual revenues of approximately $110 million. According to the company, the deal will allow for greater investment in Cibao’s cold-chain logistics and product innovation.

Source: Tropical Cheese (via PR Newswire) / FoodBev / Private Equity Professional / Zippia