Gourmerica Inc. has invested in and formed a strategic partnership with Dave's Gourmet LLC, a specialty food company that sells gourmet pasta sauces, hot sauces, condiments, and spices.
In conjunction with the investment, David Neuman, joined the company as president. Dave Hirschkop, the founder of Dave's Gourmet, will continue driving the company's food innovation strategy and focus on Dave's Gourmet's pipeline of new offerings, and the day-to-day leadership activities will be assumed by Neuman. Prior to joining Dave's Gourmet, Neuman had a long career in the specialty and natural foods industry, most recently serving as CEO of Gaea North America, a manufacturer of premium Greek extra virgin olive oil and other specialties, and president of Lucini Italia, a leader in the Italian extra virgin olive oil and gourmet pasta sauce categories.
Neuman said in a statement, "I have always admired the Dave's Gourmet brand and product offerings. This is an exciting category, and Dave's Gourmet has a strong position given the consumer loyalty to the brand developed over more than 20 years, the high quality of its products, and its continuous focus on innovation."
Hirschkop added, "David Neuman, an olive oil and pasta sauce market veteran, is a great addition to our team. His background and professional skills are perfect for our organization. We're also thrilled about our new partnership with Gourmerica, which will help us with our mission to save the world from boring food. Do not settle for anything less, life is too short not to use the best."
Gourmerica's expertise and capital will help Dave's Gourmet accelerate its growth and continue with its mission to provide innovative food products to customers in the U.S. and worldwide, according to the company. Gourmerica will also be focused on supplementing Dave's Gourmet's organic growth with strategic acquisitions.
Founded in 1993, Dave's Gourmet is a pioneer in the super-hot segment of the hot sauce category. It’s also a leader in the premium pasta sauce segment and serves both retail and foodservice customers in the U.S. and internationally and sells its products through the e-commerce channels.
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