A prominent portfolio of sports and active nutrition brands has announced its acquisition of FITCRUNCH, a protein bar brand founded by celebrity chef Robert Irvine and Union Capital Associates, L.P. The current Chief Executive Officer of FITCRUNCH, Patrick Cornacchiulo, will step into the role of Chief Executive Officer at 1440 following the acquisition. Financial details of the private transaction have not been disclosed.
Established in 2012 by Bakery Barn and Robert Irvine, FITCRUNCH offers a growing range of delicious, high-protein snacks, including bars, wafers, and powders, designed for fitness enthusiasts and everyday consumers looking to enhance their diets.
“FITCRUNCH has solidified its status as a leading active nutrition brand with strong performance across various retail channels in a fragmented and expanding market,” said Cornacchiulo. “We are excited to join the 1440 Foods platform and unite two talented teams with extensive experience in nutrition, retail, branding, and manufacturing. With both FITCRUNCH and 1440 enjoying significant brand loyalty, our combined portfolios and innovative capabilities will help us reach a wider audience across more occasions and channels. I look forward to guiding the company through its next phase of growth.”
“I am incredibly excited about this new chapter for FITCRUNCH,” added Irvine. “Since its market entry in 2013, our brand has been dedicated to creating delicious, high-quality nutrition that consumers can trust. I’m looking forward to continuing this mission alongside our new partners. Together, we are set to expand FITCRUNCH’s reach to even more individuals seeking tasty options that support their best lives.”
FITCRUNCH is an excellent addition to 1440 Foods’ portfolio, which includes established brands like Pure Protein, MET-Rx, and Body Fortress, all of which have seen substantial growth across retail channels since 4×4 Capital acquired the business in 2021.
“1440’s vision is centered on four key pillars: strong brands, a comprehensive product portfolio, robust retailer relationships, and efficient operations,” said Alex Medicis, co-founder of 4×4 Capital and Chairman of the 1440 Foods Board of Directors. “The addition of FITCRUNCH enhances our strength in these areas and will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of ‘better for you’ snacking and meal replacement. Active nutrition is one of the fastest-growing segments in grocery as consumers increasingly seek flavorful and functional nutrition options, whether at the gym, at home, or on the go. We are eager to collaborate with Patrick and the team to advance our mission of supporting healthier lifestyles.”
“Patrick and his team have successfully developed FITCRUNCH into a unique and growing brand, bringing significant expertise, innovation, and retailer relationships that will complement our own at 1440,” said Adam Nebesar, a Partner at Bain Capital and a member of the Board of Directors. “This acquisition marks a significant milestone in 1440’s growth journey and reinforces the company’s position as a leading platform in active nutrition.”
William Blair & Company LLC is serving as the lead financial advisor to 1440, while Ropes & Gray LLP is providing legal counsel. KPMG is acting as accounting advisor, and Deutsche Bank, Jefferies, Macquarie Capital, and BNP Paribas are providing committed debt financing and financial advisory services to 1440.
Piper Sandler & Co. is the lead financial advisor to FITCRUNCH and Bakery Barn, with KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc. acting as co-advisor. Finn Dixon & Herling LLP is serving as lead legal counsel for FITCRUNCH and Bakery Barn.
