Colavita Acquires Vitelli Foods, Strengthening Presence in Pasta and Tomato Markets

Colavita Brings Historic Italian Brand Luigi Vitelli Into Its Family

EDISON, N.J., March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Colavita USA, a leader in premium Italian specialty food products, is excited to announce its acquisition of Vitelli Foods, the owner of the historic Luigi Vitelli brand. Known for its high-quality pasta and tomatoes, this acquisition not only diversifies Colavita's product offerings but also strengthens its position as the third-largest importer of Italian pasta in the United States. Furthermore, it significantly bolsters Colavita's presence in the tomato market, a strategic move to enhance its competitive stance in both categories.

Established in 1885, Luigi Vitelli is the first Italian food brand ever registered in America, symbolizing a long-standing tradition of culinary excellence. "Luigi Vitelli is an iconic brand that we want to preserve and introduce to the next generations, continuing the great work done by Claudia Vitelli and Roy Taormina," said Giovanni Colavita, CEO of Colavita USA. "I've known Claudia for years and have always respected and admired what she has built, preserving the great family tradition that we share. The Vitelli brand's importance to the history of Italian food in this country is truly unmatched," Colavita continued. "In fact, this year marks the 125^th anniversary of Vitelli's membership in the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the U.S., an organization that includes Amerigo Vitelli among its founders."

This acquisition follows Colavita's successful integration of the California company O Olive Oil & Vinegar, a leading producer of California vinegar and organic extra virgin olive oil. It further showcases Colavita's commitment to expanding its portfolio of authentic, high-quality food products.

Under the Vitelli Foods banner, Colavita aims to leverage its extensive distribution network and industry expertise to increase the reach and recognition of Luigi Vitelli products, emphasizing their unique history and Italian authenticity.

About Vitelli Foods
Since 1996 the Vitelli family has been operating as Vitelli Foods and has expanded the line of products to include pasta, beans and other Italian specialties. Today's Vitelli is quite different from the Vitelli of 1885 when it served the growing Italian immigrant community in the five boroughs of New York City. Today, products imported by Vitelli can be found in major supermarket chains and distributors throughout the United States. The company is still managed by a member of the Vitelli family, Claudia Vitelli. 

About Colavita
Family-owned and operated Colavita has been producing, importing and distributing premium quality specialty food products since 1938. The Colavita brand is present in over 80 countries worldwide. In the U.S., Colavita is a leading national brand of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic and wine vinegar, and pasta, with distribution throughout the retail, eCommerce, club and food service sectors. Colavita is committed to quality assurance and sustainability principles throughout its supply chain. All Colavita facilities in the U.S. and Italy are GFSI certified and powered by solar energy. For more information about Colavita, visit colavita.com.

SOURCE Colavita