The financial details surrounding this acquisition remain undisclosed. However, the gelato supplier has characterized this transaction as a pivotal advancement in their growth strategy.
Through this acquisition, the Italian bakery products producer and distributor is enhancing its footprint in North America by establishing a new entity named Sammontana North America. This initiative reflects their commitment to expanding their market presence.
La Rocca Creative Cakes has a rich history, having been founded in 1986 by the Givens family. The company operates in the retail in-store bakery sector, specializing in the production of cakes, desserts, and frozen pastries.
With a robust distribution network, La Rocca supplies its products throughout Canada and the United States, delivering an impressive volume of over 120,000 cakes on a weekly basis.
In 2024, La Rocca achieved revenues exceeding C$70 million, which is approximately $48.78 million USD, showcasing the company’s strong performance in the market.
Alessandro Angelon, the CEO of Sammontana Italia, emphasized the importance of this deal, describing it as a “significant step” toward the company’s broader goals of growth and global expansion. He highlighted the ambition to “expand into foreign markets through organic growth and targeted acquisitions” within the dessert, ice cream, and frozen pastry sectors.
This acquisition is poised to complement Sammontana’s existing Bindi brand, which already holds a substantial presence in North America, particularly in the food service channel.
Moreover, Sammontana Italia boasts a diverse range of brands, including Sammontana Gelati all’Italiana, Tre Marie, Forno d’Asolo, and Bonchef, further solidifying its reputation in the industry.
In a related development, the company recently received conditional approval from Italy’s competition regulator for its merger with the frozen baked goods firm Forno d’Asolo, as reported in July. This move further illustrates the company’s aggressive growth strategy in the bakery sector.
By integrating La Rocca into its operations, Sammontana Italia aims to enhance its presence in both Canadian and U.S. markets, while also consolidating its position in the in-store bakery sector. This acquisition reflects a broader strategy to drive growth and innovation within the dessert industry.
Michael Givens, president and CEO of La Rocca, shared his enthusiasm regarding the acquisition, describing it as an “incredible opportunity” for the company. He strategically highlighted the shared values between La Rocca and Sammontana regarding their “shared passion for premium desserts and commitment to excellence.” He expressed optimism about unlocking new growth opportunities and delivering even more exceptional products to their customers.
As this transaction moves closer to finalization, it is anticipated to close within the month, subject to customary closing conditions.
Headquartered in Empoli, Sammontana Italia employs over 2,000 individuals across six production plants in Italy and two facilities abroad. The company projects a pro forma turnover exceeding €900 million (approximately $627.21 million) in 2024, reinforcing its standing as a leader in the global dessert market.
