Chicago, Illinois-headquartered Conagra Brands is “exploring strategic alternatives” for Gelit Srl, its Doganella di Ninfa, Italy-based frozen pasta production operation. The unit is a major producer of authentic ready meals, primarily for private label customers.
The company, acquired from Ralcorp in 2012, employs approximately 145 full-time workers, operates a stand-alone, state-of-the-art factory, and supplies products to a broad range of international customers.
Gelit was founded in 1977 as a crepes manufacturer. Over the years its frozen product line evolved to include gnocchi and a wide line of pasta- and vegetable-based entrees and prepared meals and sauces. Single portion ready-to-heat dishes run the gamut from Spaghetti with Tomato, Spaghetti alla Carbonara, Fettuccine al Ragù, Risotto with Mushrooms, Tagliatelle with Mushrooms and Pennette all’Arrabbiata, to Tagliolini allo Scoglio, Pennette with Salmon and Prawns, and more. Distribution is in 350-gram bags.
Conagra has engaged BNP Paribas to assist with the so-called “strategic alternatives” process, for which no timetable has been set. In a press released issued on January 21, the company stated that “no assurance can be given as to the outcome of the process,” adding that it does not intend to disclose additional details unless and until further disclosure is appropriate or necessary.”
