The Watkins Company, a USA-based flavour business, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the spice business of Sauer Brands, a USA-based food company.
The acquisition includes Kernel Season’s, Spice Hunter, and Sauer’s branded spices and seasonings, alongside spice-related private label and foodservice operations. Sauer Brands will retain its mayonnaise and condiment business, including Duke’s Mayonnaise and Mateo’s Gourmet Salsa. As part of the deal, Watkins will gain all branding and distribution rights to the spice brands, as well as ownership of manufacturing plants in Richmond (VA), and San Luis Obispo (CA). The transaction is expected to close by the end of the third quarter of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions, for an undisclosed sum.
Sauer Brands CEO E Yuri Hermida stated: “This transaction is an important step in our broader strategy to build a more focused condiments business […] Duke’s Mayonnaise and Mateo’s Gourmet Salsa are growth leaders in their respective categories […] and each has significant runway as they evolve from regional favorites into brands with national scale”.
The Watkins Company CEO JR Rigley added: “As a trusted and dedicated flavor company, we are excited to introduce Sauer’s spices to generations of our loyal consumers”.
Source: Sauer Brands (via Business Wire)
