Dean Foods buys Uncle Matt's: 'It further underscores our commitment to the organic space'

21-Jun-2017 - Last updated on 23-Jun-2017 at 12:36 GMT

Dean Foods – best-known for dairy brands such as Dean’s, Dairy Pure and Land O Lakes - has acquired organic juice maker Uncle Matt’s Organic for an undisclosed sum as it seeks to expand its presence in organic market.

Following the acquisition, founder ‘Uncle’ Matt McLean will continue to lead the business, which will continue to operate out of its offices in Clermont, Florida, said Ralph Scozzafava, Dean Foods CEO.

"Dean Foods is committed to supporting Uncle Matt's product innovation efforts and their ongoing development and growth in the natural channel. Moreover, our core strengths in selling and distribution will enable consumers unprecedented access to Uncle Matt's delicious, on-trend line of products.

“Not only is the brand a great complement to our conventional portfolio, it further underscores our commitment to the organic space following our announcements of our partnership with Organic Valley and our recent investment in Good Karma's plant-based beverage portfolio."

The nation's oldest organic juice company offering a wide range of organic juices, including probiotic-infused juices and fruit-infused waters, Uncle Matt’s will be able to reach a wider audience via Dean Foods, said McLean.

"Becoming part of Dean Foods will allow us to bring organic to consumers at a scale that supports the organic farming community and increasing consumer interests at the same time."

Matt McLean: 'This is a win win for everyone'

In a facebook post on the deal, in which Whipstitch Capital served as an advisor, McLean said: "I believe this is a win-win for everyone and am excited about being part of the Dean Foods team to grow Uncle Matt’s Organic.

"Dean Foods recent joint venture with Organic Valley Coop proves their commitment to the organic industry and their capabilities to distribute Uncle Matt’s Organic to new markets nationwide. I will continue to lead the Uncle Matt’s Organic team from our office here in Clermont, Florida. Our mission, vision and commitment to growing a healthy generation will not change."

Mike Burgmaier, Managing Director of Whipstitch Capital, added: “We have known Matt McLean for many years and we couldn’t be happier to provide liquidity to him and his family from this process and help set the Uncle Matt’s brand on the road to further strong growth."

Based in Dallas, Texas, Dean Foods is one of the nation's largest processors and direct-to-store distributors of fluid milk marketed under more than 50 local and regional dairy brands and private labels. It also distributes ice cream, cultured products, juices, teas, bottled water and other products and has a joint venture with Organic Valley, distributing fresh organic products to local retailers.