WhiteWave Foods Acquires Earthbound Farm

The WhiteWave Foods Co. of Denver, Colo., has agreed to acquire Earthbound Farm, a major organic food brands. for approximately $600 million. Earthbound Farm is the largest organic produce brand in North America and a major producer in the value-added organic packaged salad category. Earthbound Farm also produces and markets an extensive in the line of organic fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen fruits and vegetables, and dried fruits and snacks. WhiteWave manufactures, markets, distributes and sells branded plant-based foods and beverages, coffee creamers and beverages and premium dairy products throughout North America and Europe under the brands of Silk, Horizon Organic, International Delight and LAND O LAKES. The acquisition is expected to be completed during the first quarter of 2014. WhiteWave plans to operate Earthbound Farm as a separate business unit, based in San Juan Bautista, Calif. No significant operational changes are anticipated at Earthbound Farm as a result of the acquisition.