Sauer Brands Acquired by Advent International, Pioneering Growth in Condiments & Seasonings

Deal News | Mar 05, 2025 | Falfurrias Capital

Advent International, a prominent global private equity investor, has acquired Sauer Brands Inc., a well-established platform of leading condiment and seasoning brands, from Falfurrias Capital Partners. The transaction's terms remain undisclosed. Sauer Brands, founded as The C.F. Sauer Company in 1887 in Richmond, Virginia, has built a substantial presence with standout brands like Duke's Mayonnaise and Mateo's Gourmet Salsa. These brands have cultivated a loyal consumer base and a strong market position, with Duke's Mayo being a particularly fast-growing entity within the condiment category. Advent International boasts a history of strategic investments in the food sector, enriching its diverse portfolio and showcasing its continued interest in this industry. Their expertise promises to support Sauer Brands' growth strategy under new leadership, with Todd Lachman stepping in as the incoming board chair. Concurrently, Bill Lovette, the CEO of Sauer Brands, expressed excitement about the brand's future, hinging on Advent's extensive resources and operational guidance. Falfurrias Capital Partners, the selling firm, shares the optimism, indicating its confidence in Sauer Brands' trajectory under Advent's stewardship. Specialized advisory firms such as Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, McGuireWoods LLP, and other renowned names provided financial and legal guidance throughout this acquisition. Advent's track record in facilitating the upward trajectories of food-related brands and its substantial assets under management highlight its capacity as a strategic partner for Sauer Brands moving forward.

Sectors

  • Food and Beverage
  • Private Equity

Geography

  • United States – The acquisition involves U.S.-based companies, with Sauer Brands headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, and operations across multiple U.S. locations.

Industry

  • Food and Beverage – Relates to the production, distribution, and marketing of condiments and seasonings as exemplified by Sauer Brands' operations and offerings.
  • Private Equity – Pertinent to Advent International's acquisition of Sauer Brands, highlighting their involvement in buying and growing companies.

Financials

  • Undisclosed – Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
Sauer Brands Inc.Target CompanyCompanyA prominent producer of condiments and seasonings, known for brands like Duke's Mayonnaise.
Advent InternationalBidding Company/BuyerCompanyA leading global private equity investor acquiring Sauer Brands to expand its presence in the food and beverage sector.
Falfurrias Capital PartnersSelling Company/VendorCompanyFormer owner of Sauer Brands, focusing on growing middle-market businesses through strategic investments.
Morgan Stanley & Co. LLCLead Financial Advisor for Sauer BrandsCompanyProvided financial advisory services to Sauer Brands during the acquisition process.
McGuireWoods LLPLegal Advisor to Sauer Brands and Falfurrias CapitalCompanyServed as legal advisor to Sauer Brands and its vendor in the acquisition.
William Blair & Company, L.L.C.Co-Financial Advisor to Sauer BrandsCompanySupported Sauer Brands with financial advisory services alongside Morgan Stanley.
Centerview Partners LLCFinancial Advisor to Advent InternationalCompanyProvided financial advisory services to Advent International in the acquisition.
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLPLegal Advisor to Advent InternationalCompanyServed as legal advisor to Advent International during the acquisition.