Snyder’s-Lance Acquires Baked Snack Foods Maker

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Snyder's-Lance Inc. on Monday completed its acquisition of Baptista's Bakery Inc. Under the terms of the agreement, first announced on May 7, Snyder's-Lance acquired 100 percent of Baptista's, as well as its manufacturing facility.

According to Snyder's-Lance, the deal is consistent with its strategic plans to support efforts to sharpen its focus on branded products in growth categories, such as "better for you." Baptista's is manufacturer of the Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps brand.

"Baptista's is a leader in highly differentiated snacks, and we're excited to be working with their talented, creative team," Carl E. Lee Jr., president and CEO of Snyder's-Lance, said last month. "Baptista's is a company that has excelled in providing exceptional product quality and innovation while commercializing production in ways that are effective and unique."

Nan Gardetto, CEO and founder of Milwaukee-based Baptista's, added that she is pleased with her company's success during the past 15 years. "Our success is a direct result of the dedicated, talented group of people who make up our employee team," she said. "Foremost in my mind, as I entered into conversations that led to this transaction, was my desire to find an organization that would be equally committed to our people and our community. Certainly, we believe we have found an excellent steward for our business in Snyder's-Lance."

Baptista's Bakery Inc. was established following the sale of Gardetto's Bakery Inc. to General Mills in 1999.

Charlotte-based Snyder's-Lance Inc. sells products under the Snyder's of Hanover, Lance, Cape Cod, Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps, Krunchers!, Tom's, Archway, Jays, Stella D'oro, Eatsmart, O-Ke-Doke, Quitos and other brand names.