IBP Acquires Appetizer Division of Diversified Foods

IBP has acquired the assets of the appetizer division of Diversified Foods Group, L.L.C., one of the nation's leading appetizer producers.

The acquired Chicago-based division, which includes a production plant in Chicago and another in Newark, NJ, will operate as a freestanding division of IBP's Foodbrands America.

"The appetizer business is one of the fastest growing segments in the foodservice and retail food industries, with consumer trends toward hand held, convenient and quality home meal replacements," according to Robert L. Peterson, IBP chairman and CEO.

DFG markets a variety of premium quality hors d'oeuvres, appetizers, desserts and prepared meals sold under the brand names of Restauranic, Fayes, Cohen's Famous and Casino Chef. Products include assorted fresh finger sandwiches, beef & mushroom turnovers, fajitas, beef kabobs, spinach croissant, Chicago-style pizza, stuffed mushrooms, pizza bagels and mini-cheesecakes.

"This acquisition is further evidence of our efforts to position IBP as a major force in the higher margin foodservice, away-from-home and meal-solutions marketplace," Peterson noted.

Foodbrands America, headquartered in Oklahoma city, OK, produces, markets and distributes hundreds of products from deli meats and pizza toppings to soups, sauces and side dishes. The company became part of IBP in May 1997.

IBP is a leading producer of high quality fresh beef, pork and related allied products and supplies premium fully prepared meats and other consumer-ready foods for the retail and foodservice industries.