Barilla Acquires US-Based Mac and Cheese Brand Goodles
Italian food company Barilla has acquired the mac and cheese business of Santa Cruz-based Goodles, expanding its pasta portfolio. The acquisition allows Goodles to maintain operational independence while leveraging Barilla's global reach for growth. Jen Zeszut, founder and CEO of Goodles, emphasized that the partnership would support innovation without compromising quality or decision-making autonomy. Barilla has been investing in U.S. operations recently, including a $145 million expansion at its Avon facility set to complete by 2028. The company reported €4.83 billion ($5.6 billion) in revenue for 2025 with improved profitability despite a slight decline in sales year-over-year. Goodles had previously secured funding from L Catterton, and its plant-based pasta products are available at major U.S. retailers.
Topics: Corporate Strategy Food Industry Mergers & Acquisitions