US salty snack manufacturer CK Snacks has successfully acquired local competitor Axium Foods for an undisclosed amount. This strategic move is expected to enhance CK Snacks’ product lineup and positions both companies for sustained growth in the competitive snack-food market.
CK Snacks, also known for its Cheeze Kurls brand, operates out of Michigan and is a part of Nexus Capital’s portfolio. The acquisition of Axium Foods, a firm based in Illinois, strengthens their position in the food and beverage industry. Both CK Snacks and Axium Foods supply a broad range of private-label products, making this partnership particularly significant.
Founded in 1964, CK Snacks produces extruded, fried, and baked snacks, as well as popcorn and party mixes. It serves major grocery chains and retailers across North America, while also functioning as a contract manufacturer for established brands.
On the other hand, Axium Foods has been in the market since 1960, specializing in tortilla chips, corn chips, extruded snacks, and various pellet snacks. Jamie Colbourne, CEO of CK Snacks, stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Axium Foods into the CK Snacks family. Axium Foods’ expertise in tortilla chip and snack production will complement our existing product lines, enabling us to offer an even broader range of snacks.”
This acquisition signifies a key shift in CK Snacks’ growth strategy. Colbourne emphasized their commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality products to consumers. The McCleary family, founders of Axium Foods, expressed their excitement about continuing their legacy with CK Snacks, noting, “We are excited to see Axium Foods continue alongside another long-standing, family-founded business. CK Snacks shares our dedication to quality, innovation, and customer service.”
Both companies will maintain their operations at their respective locations while continuing to drive trends in the food and drink business.
CK Snacks recently aligned with Nexus Capital in June after the asset manager acquired it from Kilroy Partners. Nexus has collaborated with Colbourne and the original founders to reinvigorate the business, although specific financial details remain undisclosed.