Simple Mills was founded on a powerful vision: to revolutionize food by harnessing its potential to drive meaningful change. Over the past twelve years, a dedicated team has transformed this vision into reality. They’ve redefined beloved pantry staples using simple, wholesome ingredients, delivering exceptional taste. Furthermore, Simple Mills pioneered the introduction of unique, nutrient-dense nut, seed, and vegetable flours into the snacking category, catering to health-conscious consumers. Their commitment extends to the very source of their ingredients, partnering with farmers to implement regenerative practices, nurturing a vision of a sustainable food future for both people and the planet.
This partnership with Flowers Foods positions Simple Mills for even greater achievements. By joining forces, Simple Mills will leverage Flowers Foods’ extensive resources to broaden distribution networks, accelerate product innovation, and amplify brand awareness, reaching a wider consumer base. This strategic move will undoubtedly advance Simple Mills’ ambitious mission to revolutionize the food industry.
Upon the transaction’s completion, expected later in Q1, Katlin Smith and the existing Simple Mills team will remain at the helm, operating as an independent subsidiary. This ensures continuity and allows Simple Mills to maintain its unique identity while benefiting from collaboration with Flowers Foods to build upon its impressive growth trajectory and explore new horizons.
Beyond the clear business advantages, this partnership is strengthened by the alignment of cultures, missions, and values between Simple Mills and Flowers Foods. Flowers Foods, like Simple Mills, emphasizes the importance of its team, ethical business practices, and community support. Their core values – honesty & integrity, respect & inclusion, sustainability, passion, and humility – resonate deeply with Simple Mills’ ethos, ensuring a harmonious integration. Crucially, Flowers Foods shares Simple Mills’ commitment to revolutionizing food production and maintaining uncompromising ingredient and product standards.
For Vestar Capital Partners, this acquisition of Simple Mills by Flowers Foods represents a successful culmination of their investment. By backing Simple Mills, Vestar Capital Partners recognized the brand’s potential and contributed to its remarkable growth story. This acquisition signifies a positive return on investment and validates Vestar Capital Partners’ strategic approach to identifying and nurturing high-growth companies in the consumer packaged goods sector. The success of Simple Mills underscores the value of investing in companies that prioritize health, sustainability, and innovation in the food industry.
This acquisition is a momentous occasion for Simple Mills, its team, its customers, and its mission. It also stands as a testament to the strategic investments made by firms like Vestar Capital Partners in companies that are shaping the future of food. The future looks bright for Simple Mills as it embarks on this new chapter with Flowers Foods, promising continued growth, innovation, and a broader positive impact on the food landscape. Thank you for your continued support of Simple Mills’ journey.
