Brynwood Partners

Brynwood Partners is a private equity firm specializing in consumer-oriented middle-market businesses, particularly in food and beverage. Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Greenwich, Connecticut, the firm has raised multiple investment funds, including Brynwood IX, a $750 million fund closed in 2023. As of March 31, 2025, Brynwood Partners manages over $2.3 billion in assets, with a portfolio generating approximately $3.0 billion in annual sales across 19 factories and employing around 4,700 people. The firm's investment strategy focuses on control buyouts and structured joint ventures, targeting non-core brands and companies operating in the consumer sector. Brynwood Partners has a history of acquiring and revitalizing well-known brands, such as Juicy Juice, Balance Bar, and Pearson's Candy Company. In 2025, the firm expanded its portfolio by acquiring the Chef Boyardee brand from Conagra Brands for $600 million, marking its largest acquisition to date. This acquisition includes the 820,000 square foot facility in Milton, Pennsylvania, and all assets and operations dedicated to the Chef Boyardee brand. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, subject to customary U.S. regulatory review. Brynwood Partners' approach combines financial capital with operational expertise to drive sales growth and enhance operational performance in its portfolio companies. The firm's team of functional experts works closely with management teams to create long-term value and accelerate performance in the consumer industry. Brynwood Partners' diverse investor base includes U.S. and international pension funds, fund-of-funds, endowments, foundations, high-net-worth family investment offices, and financial institutions. The firm's consistent approach and differentiated strategy have established it as a trusted partner for corporate carveouts, family businesses, and standalone companies seeking to create long-term value in the consumer sector.

Brynwood Partners' portfolio includes a range of well-known brands across various consumer sectors. In addition to Juicy Juice, Balance Bar, and Pearson's Candy Company, the firm has invested in brands such as Funfetti, Hungry Jack, Martha White, Pillsbury, and Jim Dandy baking brands, which were acquired from The J.M. Smucker Company in 2018. The firm also owns Hometown Food Company, which, in 2025, agreed to acquire the Chef Boyardee brand from Conagra Brands. This acquisition further solidifies Brynwood Partners' position in the food and beverage industry and demonstrates its commitment to revitalizing iconic brands. The firm's operationally focused investment approach has led to the successful turnaround and growth of its portfolio companies, contributing to its reputation as a leading private equity firm in the consumer sector.

Brynwood Partners' investment philosophy emphasizes a hands-on approach, combining financial capital with operational expertise to create value. The firm's team of functional experts works closely with portfolio companies to drive sales growth and improve operational efficiency. This approach has been instrumental in the successful acquisition and revitalization of several well-known consumer brands. The firm's consistent strategy and focus on the consumer sector have established it as a trusted partner for corporate carveouts, family businesses, and standalone companies seeking to create long-term value. Brynwood Partners' commitment to operational excellence and value creation continues to drive its success in the private equity industry.