Unilever, the world’s biggest ice cream producer and distributor, has purchased Talenti Gelato & Sorbetto for an undisclosed price. The Minneapolis, Minnesota-based company, which began as a store-front gelateria in Texas in 2003, ranks as the No. 1 marketer of packaged gelato in the United States. It anticipates ringing up more than $120 million in sales of pints (473ml) and three-pack boxes of pops this year.
With its 30 gelato and sorbetto flavors – such as Sea Salt Caramel, Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip, Tahitian Vanilla Bean and Sicilian Pistachio – Talenti brings a complementary packaged gelato portfolio to Unilever’s well established ice cream brands, which include Ben & Jerry’s, Breyers, Fruttare, Good Humor, Klondike, Magnum and Popsicle.
The acquired company will continue to craft gelato and sorbetto at its production facility in Marietta, Georgia. With access to Unilever’s extensive distribution network and resources, it expects to further accelerate growth in the premium ice cream category.
“Welcoming Talenti to the Unilever family marks another step in our North America portfolio transformation,” said Kees Kruythoff, president of Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey-headquartered Unilever North America. “The acquisition widens our position in the fast-growing gelato market with its artisanal offerings and its clear, distinct and recyclable packaging. We are looking forward to growing and developing this fantastic brand further.”
