NAPERVILLE, Ill. — KeHE Distributors, a premier distributor of fresh, natural and organic, and specialty products in North America, announced the completion of its acquisition of DPI Specialty Foods, a leading distributor in key geographic locations across the Western U.S.
“Combining KeHE and DPI's long histories of success and preeminent category expertise will enable retailers to respond more quickly to customer demand, offer additional supplier opportunities, and deliver enhanced consumer experiences,” said Deb Conklin, president & CEO at KeHE. ”Both of our organizations share an obsession for our partners, a deep commitment to our people, a focus on serving others, and financial and operational performance. This transaction represents an opportunity to capitalize on the strengths of both organizations and become an even greater force for good.”
The transaction broadens KeHE’s customer base and bolsters its existing warehouse infrastructure. The combined capabilities include over 31,000 customers, more than 80,000 SKUs, 6,100 suppliers, and 7 million square feet of warehouse space across all temperature zones in 19 distribution centers. DPI and KeHE’s shared dedication to providing fresh and innovative products will further support KeHE’s growing product portfolio, and advance key elements of the organization’s new strategic vision.
Additionally, DPI suppliers and retailers will gain access to KeHE’s business intelligence tools including the KeHE CONNECT platform. KeHE’s intuitive technology equips suppliers with industry leading sales reporting, business analytics, and data visualization services to help drive scalable success. Participating suppliers using the KeHE CONNECT® business Intelligence platform regularly are experiencing more points of distribution and growth than all others. KeHE’s category management expertise supports retailers with data, insights, and assortment recommendations that highlight market opportunities and act an as extension of their merchandising functions.
KeHE and DPI will continue to operate as separate entities while the organizations work to implement an integration plan.
