One Equity Partners announces the sale of East Balt Bakeries to Grupo Bimbo for $650 million, enhancing the bakery supplier's growth potential and global reach.

Target Information

East Balt Bakeries, headquartered in Chicago, is a prominent global supplier of premium buns and artisanal rolls, catering to major restaurant chains worldwide. Established in 1955, the company has expanded significantly, now operating 21 bakeries across 11 countries and employing approximately 2,200 workers. Daily, East Balt produces around 13 million specialty bread products, including bagels, biscuits, buns, English muffins, tortillas, and various types of bread. This remarkable growth trajectory reflects its commitment to quality and reliable supply for the largest quick-service restaurant (QSR) chains.

Under the stewardship of One Equity Partners since December 2012, East Balt has enhanced its operational capacity and profitability, indicated by an impressive increase in annual EBITDA to $70 million. The company has also made strides in expanding its footprint globally, including the successful completion of three acquisitions and the establishment of two new bakeries in Rome and Tianjin, China, with a third bakery currently under construction in Paris.

Industry Overview

The global bakery market, particularly in the United States, has exhibited substantial growth, fueled by rising consumer demand for convenient, high-quality baked goods. Key players in the bakery sector are capitalizing on trends toward healthier options and artis