Zanchetta group acquires Ceratti - Valor International
Zanchetta Group announced on Monday (29) that it has acquired Ceratti, a traditional Brazilian cold cuts and processed meats brand best known for its mortadella products. The transaction transfers full ownership of the company, which has been controlled by U.S.-based Hormel Foods since 2017. Ceratti’s manufacturing facility is located in Vinhedo, São Paulo.
In a statement, Zanchetta said the acquisition marks its entry into the pork segment, expanding its multi-protein portfolio with higher value-added processed products. Santander advised the transaction. Financial terms were not disclosed.
The Boituva, São Paulo-company that produces chicken and beef said the deal strengthens its presence in the business-to-consumer (B2C) market and opens the door to new consumption occasions.
“Ceratti is a brand with a rich history, outstanding quality, and a broad product portfolio. It has a genuine connection with Brazilian consumers’ tastes, especially those in São Paulo. This acquisition goes beyond entering a new product category,” CEO José Carlos Zanchetta said in the statement.
According to Zanchetta, the goal of the acquisition is “to build a food company recognized for excellence, trust, and its ability to deliver high-quality protein products for a wide range of consumption occasions.”
Until the transaction receives approval from Brazil’s antitrust regulator, the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (Cade), and other relevant authorities, Ceratti and Zanchetta will continue to operate independently.
Ceratti’s history dates back to 1932, when Italian immigrant Giovanni Ceratti brought traditional Italian charcuterie techniques to Brazil and founded the brand, which became widely known for products including mortadella, salami, ham, hot dogs, and fresh sausages.
In 2017, Cidade do Sol, the Brazilian company that owned the Ceratti brand at the time, was acquired by Hormel Foods for $104 million, giving the U.S. company control of the business.
In addition to Ceratti, Zanchetta owns the Alliz, Mondelli, and Frangoeste brands. Alongside serving the Brazilian domestic market, the company also exports its products.
