Bakery Portfolio Expands as Valeo Foods Group Acquires Melegatti
Valeo Foods Group, Bakery Portfolio a prominent player in Europe’s premium food sector, has announced the acquisition of the iconic Italian bakery brand Melegatti 1894 S.p.A., further strengthening its position in the continental sweet bakery market. This strategic move enhances Valeo Foods’ presence in South-West Europe and reinforces its ongoing commitment to investing in authentic, heritage-rich brands with strong regional and international appeal.
The acquisition, which includes all operational and brand assets of Melegatti, marks a significant milestone in Valeo Foods’ long-term growth strategy to build a diverse portfolio of high-quality baked treats. Melegatti is renowned for its artisanal panettone, pandoro, and croissants—staples of Italian festive traditions—making it a valuable addition to Valeo’s growing family of premium bakery brands.
A Storied Italian Brand with Deep Roots
Founded in 1894 in Verona, Italy, Melegatti has built a legacy over more than 130 years, rooted in craftsmanship, quality, and cultural significance. The company is widely credited with inventing the original pandoro, a golden, star-shaped cake that has become a symbol of Christmas in Italy and beyond. With its artisanal approach to baking and time-honored recipes passed down through generations, Melegatti has earned a loyal following across Italy and among the global Italian diaspora.
Melegatti’s product range, which includes a variety of filled croissants, panettone, and pandoro, represents the pinnacle of Italian bakery excellence. Each product is made with premium ingredients and a dedication to quality that has endured for over a century. The company’s focus on maintaining traditional baking techniques while evolving to meet modern consumer tastes makes it a natural fit for Valeo Foods’ expanding portfolio.
Strengthening Global Reach and Supply Capabilities
The acquisition of Melegatti is not only a brand expansion for Valeo Foods but also a significant operational enhancement. Melegatti’s manufacturing facilities in Verona will add crucial capacity to Valeo’s production capabilities, allowing the group to better serve growing demand in both domestic and international markets. The integration will also provide logistical advantages, creating opportunities for synergies across Valeo’s network in terms of supply chain, distribution, and innovation.
“This is a landmark acquisition for Valeo Foods Group,” said Ronald Kers, Group CEO of Valeo Foods. “Welcoming Melegatti into our portfolio marks another important step in our mission to build a leading pan-European food group with some of the most respected and beloved brands. Melegatti is a name synonymous with quality, heritage, and innovation in the Italian bakery sector. By joining forces, we aim to bring this cherished brand to new consumers around the world, while preserving everything that makes it special.”
Kers emphasized that the acquisition fits squarely within the company’s strategy to invest in culturally significant brands with international potential. “This move is aligned with our vision of long-term value creation through excellence, innovation, and authenticity,” he added. “Melegatti gives us the opportunity to expand in a segment we see as increasingly important—premium sweet baked goods—while reinforcing our presence in Southern Europe.”
A New Chapter for Melegatti
Melegatti’s leadership welcomed the acquisition as a positive and forward-looking step for the brand’s future. After a period of revitalization and renewed growth in the Italian market, the company is now poised to take its products to a broader international audience with the support and expertise of Valeo Foods.
Roberto Spezzapria, President of Melegatti, shared his optimism about the transition: “After relaunching Melegatti and restoring its strength in the Italian market, we are proud to pass the baton to Valeo Foods Group. We believe they are the ideal custodian of the brand’s next phase of development. Valeo has a proven track record in managing and growing heritage food brands, and we are confident that they will honor Melegatti’s legacy while unlocking new growth opportunities.”
Cultural Synergy and Shared Values
One of the key reasons behind the acquisition’s strategic fit is the cultural and operational alignment between the two companies. Both Valeo and Melegatti share a strong emphasis on tradition, quality, and sustainability—values that are increasingly important to today’s consumers.
Alberto Alfieri, CEO of Valeo Foods South-West Europe, highlighted these synergies: “Melegatti is a brand steeped in tradition and built on genuine Italian craftsmanship. Those values strongly reflect our own ethos. At Valeo Foods, we aim to preserve the uniqueness of our acquired brands while supporting their long-term growth and innovation. With Melegatti, we will continue to honor its heritage and artisanal quality, while introducing the brand to new international markets.”
Alfieri noted that Valeo’s experience in managing culturally rich food brands will be instrumental in helping Melegatti scale globally. “From Verona to the world, Melegatti’s cakes, pastries, and croissants deserve to be enjoyed by a wider audience,” he said. “This is not just an acquisition—it’s a celebration of Italian food excellence and a commitment to carrying it forward for future generations.”
Valeo Foods’ Vision for the Future
Valeo Foods Group, backed by Bain Capital, has grown rapidly in recent years through a combination of organic growth and strategic acquisitions. The group’s portfolio includes well-known European food brands across confectionery, snacking, bakery, and health-focused categories. With operations spanning the UK, Ireland, Continental Europe, and beyond, Valeo Foods continues to focus on acquiring high-quality brands that complement its existing offerings.
With Melegatti now part of its stable, Valeo Foods reinforces its standing as a key player in the European sweet bakery market. The move also positions the company to meet growing global demand for premium, authentic, and culturally resonant food experiences.
In conclusion, the acquisition of Melegatti 1894 represents more than just an expansion of Valeo Foods’ product portfolio. It is a union of tradition and innovation, of Italian heritage and international ambition. With the combined strengths of both companies, consumers around the world can look forward to enjoying Melegatti’s classic holiday cakes and croissants with the same artisanal quality, now available on a larger and more global scale.
