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The Marzetti Company, a manufacturer of speciality food products for retail and foodservice, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Bachan’s, Inc., the fast-growing Japanese Barbecue Sauce brand. The transaction, valued at $400 million, is a strategic move designed to reinforce Marzetti's dominance in the premium condiment category.

The deal highlights the high valuation commanded by "clean-label" brands with strong consumer loyalty. Bachan’s reported net sales of approximately $87 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2025, suggesting a significant revenue multiple that reflects the brand's rapid growth trajectory.

Global Flavours and Clean Labels

Bachan’s is best known for its authentic Japanese Barbecue Sauce, based on a multi-generational family recipe. For Marzetti, the acquisition offers an immediate entry point into the high-growth "global flavours" segment, complementing its existing portfolio of dressings, dips, and licensed sauces (which includes partnerships with Chick-fil-A and Buffalo Wild Wings).

David A. Ciesinski, CEO of The Marzetti Company, outlined the integration strategy: "We intend to further broaden distribution, support continued product innovation, and thoughtfully extend the brand into new channels and adjacent categories. This transaction will reinforce Marzetti’s position as a global leader in sauces by adding a premium brand that is exceptionally well aligned with evolving consumer preferences for global flavours and better-for-you products."

Financial and Operational Details

• Purchase Price: $400 million (subject to customary adjustments).

• Funding: Cash on hand and additional financing.

• Closing Timeline: Expected prior to the fiscal year-end of June 30, 2026, subject to regulatory approval.

• Synergies: Marzetti plans to leverage its extensive retail and foodservice distribution network and supply chain capabilities to scale Bachan's beyond its current footprint.

Founder Sentiment

Justin Gill, founder and CEO of Bachan’s, framed the acquisition as a partnership to scale his "childhood dream" of building an iconic Japanese-American flavour brand.

"What has left the most meaningful impression on me is who they are as people," Gill stated regarding the Marzetti leadership. "Bachan’s is more than just a business or a brand to me - it is part of my family’s legacy... Marzetti is an organisation that deeply shares these values, and I am confident they will honour them in this next chapter."

Portfolio Context

The acquisition fits seamlessly into Marzetti's strategy of managing both proprietary brands (Marzetti®, New York Bakery™) and high-profile licensed products. Adding a fast-growing, distinct IP like Bachan's allows Marzetti to diversify its offerings in the centre-store condiment aisle, a category currently seeing a shift toward premium, heritage-led products.