The Riverside Co. has added Kii Naturals to its NuStef Baking platform, based in Ontario, Canada.
The move adds a line of all-natural artisan crackers to NuStef’s own Reko line of crackers and pizzelle waffles, says Riverside Managing Partner Suzy Kriscunas. “This addition delivers a great brand and line of products to NuStef in an adjacent market that is poised for continued strong growth.”
Cleveland-based Riverside acquired the capacity-constrained NuStef in January with an eye to grow, professionalize and improve the business. Riverside plans to drive growth at the combined operation by leveraging a strong distribution network in both Canada and the U.S., through existing broker/retailer relationships, and by cross selling and developing new products and flavors.
Senior Food & Beverage Advisor Richard Lan, who has deep experience in Canadian baked goods manufacturing, is working with NuStef.
Working on the deal for Riverside were Vice President Caroline Shettle, Senior Associate Jon Gross, Associate Connor Ryan, Operating Partner Ron Savelli, and Operating Executive Hayden Cotterill. Regional Director, Origination Cheryl Strom sourced the deal for Riverside. Partner Anne Hayes helped secure the financing for the transaction.
