KeHE Distributors Plans Acquisition of DPI Speciality Foods

KeHE Distributors, a distributor of fresh, natural & organic, specialty and private label products in North America, has entered an agreement to acquire DPI Specialty Foods.

Acquiring DPI, A food distributor across the western United States, will allow KeHE to add over 1,000 DPI customers across all channels, delivering products in a one-truck solution. KeHE says its fresh food portfolio will also grow, which will allow retailers to respond more quickly to customer demand.

“KeHE is dedicated to being a source for good, and this expansion provides an opportunity to deliver enhanced experiences for customers, suppliers, and ultimately, consumers,” said Deb Conklin, who became KeHE’s president and CEO on April 1.  “This year we’re celebrating seven decades of serving and feeding America, and this acquisition continues to position KeHE as the preferred supply chain partner in North America.”

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and government regulatory approvals. KeHE and DPI will continue to operate independently until the transaction is closed.

“Both DPI and KeHE have built impressive networks, deep industry and category expertise, and value-added services over decades of operation,” said Russ Blake, CEO of DPI Specialty Foods. “Combining our complementary strategies allows us to further capitalize on those strengths to offer superior value for the U.S. food industry.”

Naperville, Ill.-based KeHE provides more than 30,000 natural food stores, chain and independent grocery stores, e-commerce retailers, and other specialty products. Last October, KeHE opened its newest and largest distribution center in Dallas, Texas.