Originally published on September 17, 2019; modified to remove outdated personnel references
Entrepreneurial Equity Partners (“e2p”), a Chicago-based private equity firm focused on making investments in the food and consumer packaged goods industries, announced today that it has acquired Daniele International, LLC (“Daniele” or the “Company”) from the Dukcevich family, who will maintain a significant stake in the Company. The investment is the second platform and third acquisition for e2p’s inaugural fund.
Founded in 1945, Daniele has an authentic Italian heritage and produces a suite of high-quality, innovative specialty Italian charcuterie and deli meats, including prosciutto, salame, and snack packs. The Company sells to hundreds of club, mass, and grocery customers under the Daniele and Del Duca brands and offers private label products for leading retailers. It is headquartered in Mapleville, Rhode Island and employs approximately 600 people across three facilities.
e2p stated that it has long recognized the strength of the Dukcevich family and Daniele as a leading brand, and expressed excitement about adding the company to its portfolio. The firm highlighted Daniele’s reputation for authenticity, quality, and product innovation as key drivers of its industry leadership. e2p Managing Partner CJ Fraleigh added, “We are excited to leverage our experience and networks in the food industry to help Daniele continue to identify and capture growth opportunities.”
Daniele’s CEO, Vlado Dukcevich, said, “Our family has dedicated over 70 years to growing Daniele. We selected e2p as our partner for the Company’s next stage because of their blend of hands-on operational experience and demonstrated ability to create value in food companies for all stakeholders. I know our amazing team of dedicated employees is excited to pursue even more opportunities to thrive with this important partnership. We look forward to continuing to provide our customers with the high-quality products they’ve come to know and love, and much more.”
About Entrepreneurial Equity Partners
e2p is a middle market Chicago-based private equity firm focused on control-oriented investments in the food and consumer packaged goods industries. e2p’s team of professionals includes experienced food and consumer packaged goods executives and investors who bring an entrepreneurial mindset and extensive industry networks to supporting and collaborating with portfolio company teams. For further information, please visit www.e2pcapital.com.
About Daniele International, LLC
Founded in 1945 by the Dukcevich Family, Daniele is a branded leader and private label producer of specialty Italian charcuterie and deli meats, including prosciutto, salame, and snack packs. Daniele has won three Good Food Awards and its prosciutto was named a “Best Buy” by Cooks Illustrated. To learn more, please visit www.danielefoods.com.