Ice Cream Brand Bubbies Now Under Japanese Ownership
Bubbies Ice Cream Joins Marubeni's Portfolio
In a significant move, Hawaiian ice cream brand Bubbies has been acquired by Marubeni Corporation, a major Japanese trading company. The deal includes the popular brands Yoplait, Go-Gurt, Oui, Mountain High, Ratio, and will now operate as a new division called Midwest Yogurt.
Bubbies Ice Cream, renowned for its mochi ice cream and mini cookie sandwiches, will continue to produce its beloved treats at its facilities in Phoenix, Ariz. The brand currently offers over 20 flavours of mochi ice cream and recently introduced a new Mini Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich line.
Jeff Stites, CEO at Bubbies Ice Cream, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating that Marubeni's values align with their own and they possess the resources and expertise needed for growth. The company aims to leverage Marubeni’s global distribution network to expand beyond Hawaii and the US mainland into new international markets.
Meanwhile, Lactalis USA has completed the acquisition of General Mills' U.S. yogurt business, taking on about 1,000 employees and two manufacturing facilities in Murfreesboro, Tenn., and Reed City, Mich.
As for Bubbies, they are excited to join Marubeni’s portfolio of brands and look forward to accelerating their growth long-term with Marubeni's help. The brand was founded in 1985 and has expanded in recent years due to growing consumer interest in mochi.
Elsewhere, Dollar General is seeking to expand its network of small-business suppliers to provide relevant products to its diverse shopper base. The Summer Fancy Food Show in NYC is showcasing global flavors, health and wellness, clean ingredients, and functionality. Circana has also released a list of 2024 New Product Pacesetters in food and nonfood categories.
In other corporate news, Hormel Foods has named a new president and interim CEO, with Ghingo joining the company's board of directors and Ettinger's role ending after 15 months.
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- The acquisition of Bubbies Ice Cream by Marubeni Corporation has opened up opportunities for the brand to expand in the finance and business sectors, with the aim of leveraging Marubeni's resources for growth.
- With a focus on international growth, Bubbies Ice Cream, now part of Marubeni's portfolio, will strive to increase its presence in the industry, particularly by utilizing Marubeni's global distribution network.
