Mississauga, Ontario, Canada-headquartered Furlani Foods announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire Cole’s Quality Foods on December 12. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, and the transaction is expected to close in Q1 2025 following normal regulatory approvals.
Furlani produces garlic Texas toast, loaves, breadsticks, bread knots and dinner rolls. Its pre-acquisition network includes three facilities operating in Mississauga and Oak Creek, Wisconsin. The frozen product range is sold at retail stores under the Furlani brand, and as private label and foodservice brands. The company ranks as the number one brand of pre-packaged garlic breads in Canada.
Cole’s Quality Foods, founded in 1943, introduced frozen garlic bread to the North American market and has continued to innovate in the frozen baked goods category, introducing products such as twisted and cheese-filled garlic breadsticks. The Grand Rapids, Michigan-headquartered company operates two production facilities in Muskegon, Michigan, and North Liberty, Iowa. Its branded offerings are sold at supermarkets and other grocery stores across the United States under the Cole’s brand name.
“We are proud to bring Cole’s, its brand and long history into the Furlani family,” said Jonathan Kawaja, chief executive officer of Furlani Foods. “Combining these companies means we can bring our customers an expanded product line, greater capacity, and improved service. It supports our ability to grow, ensuring a bright future.”
The company will continue to operate as Furlani Foods, with Kawaja at the helm. Its operations center will remain in Mississauga.
“This acquisition is a combination of two enduring, family-founded companies and trusted consumer brands. We are aligned on dedication to customer service, quality, innovation and sustainability. This is good news for the future of the company, our customers, and ultimately our consumers,” said Cole’s CEO Scott.
