US-based Panos Brands has finalised a transaction to purchase smoked salmon supplier The Santa Barbara Smokehouse for an undisclosed sum.
Founded in 2005, The Santa Barbara Smokehouse processes its salmon in a traditional smokehouse in the county that shares its name, utilising “full logs in an open fire kiln”, according to a company statement.
Located in New Jersey, Panos, which produces grocery items under brands such as Ka-Me, Sesmark, and Mi-del, stated that this acquisition is its second in 2024, following the earlier purchase of Tessemae’s Salad Dressings and Condiments in January.
Tim Brown, the founder and managing director of The Santa Barbara Smokehouse, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating: “Having built The Santa Barbara Smokehouse with a singular focus on producing the highest quality smoked salmon, I’m excited for Panos to expand the reach of these products to fuel consumer interest in high-quality smoked salmon.”
The firm’s products are distributed through both traditional retail outlets and foodservice channels.
Darcy Zbinovec, CEO of Panos Brands, commented on the acquisition: “SBS products are differentiated in the marketplace. The portfolio is aligned with consumer trends, including the demand for super-premium quality, and the continued interest in better-for-you foods like smoked salmon that are rich in protein and omega-3.”
“We are excited to partner with customers to expand availability of this distinctive smoked salmon across foodservice and retail channels.”
Industry news outlet Just Food has approached Panos for additional details regarding the transaction.
Since being taken over by US private-equity firm HKW in 2016, Panos had previously been part of the Dutch health food enterprise Wessanen until 2010.
The acronym Panos is said to mirror the company’s ethos, signifying its “mission to offer premium, authentic, natural, organic, and speciality foods”.
Panos operates in various consumer food segments, including dairy and snacks, across multiple distribution channels.