High Liner Foods Acquires Mrs. Paul’s, Van de Kamp’s Brands
High Liner Foods Inc., a leading North American value-added frozen seafood company, has entered into a purchase agreement to acquire the Mrs. Paul’s and Van de Kamp’s brands of frozen breaded and battered fish products from Conagra Brands for $55 million, inclusive of approximately $36 million in inventory. The purchase price is subject to a customary inventory adjustment.
“This is a highly strategic and compelling opportunity for High Liner Foods that will serve as a catalyst for further growth in the U.S retail market,” said Paul Jewer, president and chief executive officer of High Liner Foods. “By taking full ownership of these well established and respected brands, we will capture additional value for our shareholders and ensure a seamless transition for existing customers. We look forward to offering choice and value to an expanded portfolio of customers and consumers in the growing U.S market.”
High Liner Foods currently co-manufactures products for Mrs. Paul’s and Van de Kamp’s brands at its U.S. based manufacturing facilities, an average of 25 million pounds annually. The transaction secures the volume associated with the company’s current contract with Conagra, which is due to expire in 2027. It is anticipated to increase High Liner Foods’ annual volume from this business to a total of approximately 29 million pounds of fish procured, processed and sold in the United States, aligned with the company’s strategy to continue to diversify its global supply chain.
Before reaching the anticipated annual run rate of $11 million Adjusted EBITDA in 2027, which is inclusive of current contract margin, incremental contribution and synergies, the transaction is anticipated to generate incremental Adjusted EBITDA for 2026 of approximately $4 million on top of existing contract margins. The company anticipates approximately 12 to 18 months of ramp-up time to realize synergies from across the Company’s operations which are reflected, after transaction costs, in the estimated annual run rate from 2027 onward. The transaction is expected to be slightly accretive to Adjusted EBITDA starting in the second half of 2025.
Mrs. Paul’s and Van de Kamp’s are leading brands in the frozen breaded and battered category in U.S. retail with high consumer awareness. High Liner Foods intends to leverage the brands’ strong conversion metrics and brand equity to drive incremental sales of its diversified portfolio of branded and value-added retail products through an expanded distribution network and a significant national base of new retail customers.
The company will fund the transaction from its existing ABL facility. The transaction is expected to close at the end of June 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.
Jewer concluded, “This strategic transaction is one example of the steps we are taking to position High Liner Foods for future growth, leveraging our healthy balance sheet today to secure profitable volume and incremental growth for years to come. We have a clear line of sight to significant synergies that will strengthen our performance over time through operational efficiencies and incremental sales opportunities.”
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Lobato Retires From Idaho Potato Commission
After nearly 17 years with the Idaho Potato Commission and over 50 years in the food industry, Armand Lobato has retired, closing an impressive chapter in a long and accomplished career. Known for his dedication, humility, and genuine relationships, Armand continues to have a lasting presence among growers, commissioners, colleagues, and friends.
Lobato began his career in 1974 as a courtesy clerk in Denver. From those early days, he steadily advanced through retail and foodservice before joining the IPC as Foodservice Promotions Director West. In that role, he traveled across 14 western states visiting distributors, restaurants, culinary schools, and processors while sharing his well-known love of dad jokes.
Reflecting on his time with the IPC, Lobato said, “It has been a privilege to work and travel for the IPC. I will miss the growers, commissioners, teammates, and friends I made along the way. I am just an ordinary guy working in an extraordinary industry.” This deep appreciation made his contributions especially meaningful.
Along the way, Lobato earned undergraduate and graduate degrees and wrote a weekly column for The Packer and other agribusiness publications for nearly 20 years. He became known for his sharp industry insight, storytelling, and respect for Idaho’s growers and shippers.
Lobato looks forward to spending more time with his wife Michelle, their two grown children, and three grandsons. He also plans to continue writing and hopes to teach journalism or creative writing in the near future.
“It’s been a remarkable ride, one I recommend highly,” Lobato said. “It is my hope that someday, someone will open a carton of fresh Idaho potatoes and say, ‘You know, I had a good friend that worked there, years ago.’”
“Armand has been a vital part of the Idaho Potato Commission,” said Jamey Higham, president and CEO of the IPC. “His passion for the industry, his storytelling, and yes, even his love of dad jokes, have made him a cherished member of our team. We will truly miss working alongside him and wish him all the best in this exciting new chapter.”
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Bitchin’ Sauce Launches 30-Day Bowl Challenge
If feeding your family and yourself feels like a juggling act most days, you’re not alone. But what if there was a way to simplify meals, feel more energized, and actually get excited about what’s on your plate? (Or in this case… your bowl!)
Introducing the 30-Day Bowl Challenge, launching June 1st–led by Starr Edwards, the chef, creative force, and busy Bitchin’ Sauce CEO who somehow manages it all with a bowl in one hand and a little helper on the kitchen counter.
For 30 days straight, Starr will be whipping up and sharing one vibrant, delicious, and totally doable bowl a day–each one loaded with clean, whole foods and topped with her cult-favorite Bitchin’ Sauce. And she wants you to join her!
What is the Bowl Challenge?
It’s simple: one healthy bowl a day for the month of June. Think savory grain bowls, sweet breakfast bowls, colorful lunch bowls piled high with veggies–meals that are quick to build, fun to customize, and will leave you feeling awesome from the inside out.
Follow along on Instagram (@bitchinsauce) where Starr will post daily bowl inspo, weekly grocery lists, and helpful tips to make bowl-building a breeze–whether you’re cooking for one or feeding your whole crew.
“When I’m eating well, I sleep better, I focus better, and I feel more present in everything I do,” says Starr. “With five kids and a company to lead, I need healthy food that’s as energizing as it is easy. Bowls are my secret weapon!”
And with summer around the corner and the kids home more, mealtime can feel like an even bigger challenge. That’s why bowls are perfect: everyone picks what they love, builds their own combo, and tops it with Bitchin’ Sauce!
“It’s the one thing we all agree on,” Starr laughs. “From spicy Heat and smoky Chipotle to our lemony garlic Original, fresh Pesto, or the bold, warming spices of Bombay–there’s a sauce for everyone in the family!”
Why Join the Bowl Challenge?
It’s easy: just one bowl a day, made your way.
It’s healthy: filled with real, whole foods that keep you going.
It’s flexible: works for any meal of the day.
It’s energizing: a fun reset for you and your family.
The 30-Day Bowl Challenge isn’t about changing your whole routine–it’s just one good habit to add to your day. A simple, nourishing bowl made with love. And if you pair it with a glass of bubbly? Even better. Cheers to keeping it easy, tasty, and totally Bitchin’!
About Bitchin’ Sauce
Born from a mom’s heart and made famous at farmers markets across Southern California, Bitchin’ Sauce is the cult-favorite, almond-based dip that’s taking taste buds by storm. Plant-based, gluten-free, and endlessly versatile, Bitchin’ Sauce makes everything taste Bitchin’–from veggies and burgers to tacos, bowls, and beyond. Now available nationwide at retailers including Costco, Whole Foods, Target, and Kroger, you can find your favorite flavor in the refrigerated deli section or at www.bitchinsauce.com.
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