Bubbies Ice Cream, widely recognized as the leading mochi ice cream brand in the natural channel and one of the fastest-growing frozen novelty brands in conventional grocery, has officially been acquired by Marubeni Corporation. This strategic acquisition marks a new chapter for Bubbies, bringing together the brand’s premium ice cream offerings with Marubeni’s extensive global resources, operational scale, and international trade expertise.
Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Marubeni Corporation is one of the country’s largest and most diversified integrated trading and investment companies. The acquisition was made through its wholly owned subsidiary, Marubeni America Corporation, based in New York City. Following the acquisition, Bubbies will continue to operate independently, maintaining its manufacturing and business operations out of Phoenix, Arizona.
Strengthening Bubbies’ Growth Trajectory with Global Backing
The acquisition is poised to significantly enhance Bubbies’ ability to scale both domestically and globally. Marubeni’s vast international infrastructure, combined with its established capabilities in supply chain management, food production, and distribution, will allow Bubbies to expand its reach and production capacity while preserving the brand’s dedication to quality and innovation.
“This partnership is a pivotal moment for our company,” said Jeff Stites, Chief Executive Officer of Bubbies Ice Cream. “Marubeni is a global organization with values that align to our own. They possess the perfect mix of resources and expertise needed as we look to accelerate our growth long-term. We’re thrilled to join their portfolio of brands and explore new opportunities to scale nationwide and internationally based on Marubeni’s impressive network of supply and trade partners.”
With this move, Marubeni aims to further strengthen its presence in the high-growth North American frozen food market, particularly within the premium dessert category. Bubbies’ market-leading performance in the mochi ice cream segment made it an ideal candidate for Marubeni’s expansion efforts.
A Brand Built on Tradition and Innovation
Founded in 1985 as a small scoop shop on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, Bubbies has grown into a premium dessert brand celebrated for its artisanal approach to mochi ice cream. Over the past four decades, the company has established a reputation for crafting super-premium ice cream wrapped in sweet rice dough—an iconic Japanese-inspired dessert that has gained mainstream popularity in the United States and abroad.
The brand’s commitment to quality is evident in its carefully sourced ingredients, unique flavor combinations, and dedication to preserving traditional methods while embracing innovation. Bubbies offers a wide array of mochi ice cream flavors, including favorites such as Matcha Green Tea, Strawberry, Mango, and Vanilla, all made with real ingredients and no artificial flavors or preservatives.
In early 2025, Bubbies expanded its product portfolio with the introduction of Mini Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches—a new frozen novelty line that blends the brand’s signature quality with familiar formats to attract a broader range of consumers. The expansion reflects Bubbies’ ongoing focus on category innovation and its efforts to evolve with changing consumer preferences while staying true to its heritage of excellence.
Expanding Reach Through Strategic Channels
Bubbies’ products are currently available across a variety of retail channels, including natural food stores, conventional grocery chains, warehouse clubs, and mass-market retailers. Additionally, the brand has a growing presence in select international markets, where demand for premium, globally inspired frozen desserts continues to rise.
The brand’s ability to connect with health-conscious and premium-focused consumers has been instrumental in its strong performance. In recent years, Bubbies has enjoyed increased visibility through its distribution in leading retailers such as Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Costco, as well as through online platforms.
By joining forces with Marubeni, Bubbies now has the opportunity to further broaden its distribution footprint—potentially accelerating its entry into new international markets and leveraging Marubeni’s vast logistics and retail network in Asia, Europe, and beyond.
Marubeni’s Vision for Food Sector Investments
Marubeni has a long-standing history of investing in high-quality food brands and food production businesses. The company’s global food division is involved in a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, food manufacturing, supply chain management, and consumer goods distribution. Previous investments by Marubeni have included partnerships with premium and fast-growing brands that demonstrate strong market potential and a commitment to product excellence.
The acquisition of Bubbies reflects Marubeni’s continued interest in diversifying its food portfolio with brands that are positioned at the intersection of tradition, innovation, and health-conscious consumer trends.
“Bubbies has created a unique space within the frozen novelty category through its commitment to high-quality ingredients, authentic Japanese-inspired offerings, and ongoing innovation,” said a Marubeni spokesperson. “We believe the brand is well-positioned for long-term success and we are excited to support its next phase of expansion.”
Advisors and Legal Support
The transaction was supported by several leading financial and legal advisory firms. Lazard served as the exclusive financial advisor to Bubbies Ice Cream, providing strategic guidance throughout the deal process. Legal counsel for Bubbies was provided by Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP, a firm with deep expertise in mergers and acquisitions.
On the buyer’s side, Marubeni Corporation was advised by Spayne Lindsay & Co. LLP as its financial advisor, while Mayer Brown LLP provided legal representation.
