Last updated on May 2nd, 2019 at 09:31 am
Le Mars, Iowa-based Wells Enterprises has acquired Fieldbrook Foods, expanding Wells’ annual manufacturing capacity to 200 million gallons.
The acquisition of the Dunkirk, New York-based Fieldbrook Foods from Arbor Investments was effective April 15.
“The combination creates a stronger platform for growth and positions us to better serve our customers, as well as providing a more geographically diverse footprint for us,” said Mike Wells, president and CEO. “We’re excited for the future and growing our business together.”
Wells is the No. 3 ice cream manufacturer in the U.S. It manufactures its signature brand Blue Bunny as well as Bomb Pop, Blue Ribbon Classics and its newest brand, Chilly Cow. It also does private label and co-pack business. Fieldbrook is a private label/contract manufacturer.
Fieldbrook operates two manufacturing facilities—one in Dunkirk, another in Lakewood, New Jersey. Together, the companies will employ more than 3,800 people and produce nearly 200 million gallons of ice cream.
“We have confidence in the local Fieldbrook team, and are excited to have them join Wells. We’re focused on our shared commitment of quality, service and food safety and look forward to continuing to fulfill Wells’ purpose of bringing joy to everyday life because of the love of ice cream,” Wells said.
Wells Enterprises Inc. is described as the largest privately held, family-owned ice cream manufacturer in the U.S. Founded in 1913 by Fred H. Wells, the company still is owned by the Wells family. It produces more than 150 million gallons of ice cream per year and distributes products in all 50 states.
Wells employs more than 3,000 people across the country. The company is headquartered and has two manufacturing plants in Le Mars. As the world’s largest manufacturer of ice cream in one location, it has made Le Mars the “Ice Cream Capital of the World.”
