Nestlé Professional agreed to acquire Tampa, Fla.-based Vitality Foodservice Inc., one of North America's leading beverage solution providers to the foodservice industry. The acquisition price was not disclosed. This move allows Nestlé Professional, Nestlé's globally managed business dedicated to the out-of-home food and beverage market, to accelerate its drive in becoming the recognized leader in branded hot and cold non-carbonated beverage solutions to the out-of-home industry in North America, the company says. The transaction excludes the Vitality European manufacturing and distribution business.

 

Vitality Foodservice Inc. manufactures and markets a complete range of beverage products from juices, teas, coffees and smoothies to specialty drinks. Vitality’s organization with 700 employees and its expertise in sales, service and dispensing innovative products, will be complementary to Nestlé Professional's North American beverage business and is well aligned to Nestlé’s global commitment to the out-of-home business as one of its main growth drivers, Nestlé says.

 

Marc Caira, chief executive officer of Nestlé Professional, said in a statement: “We are very excited to welcome Vitality Foodservice into the Nestlé Professional family. Vitality not only complements our business but strengthens our position in North America, and will enable us to accelerate growth in this important out-of-home market. Additionally, Vitality’s product offerings align strongly with Nestlé’s commitment to nutrition, health, and wellness.”

 

Nestlé Professional North America employs more than 900 employees. Its beverages division provides the commercial and institutional restaurant industry with branded hot and cold non-carbonated beverage solutions under brands such as Nescafé, Coffee-mate, Nesquik, Nestea and Nestlé.

 

The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to be completed within 30 days.