Trinity Hunt Partners Announces Successful Sale of C.J. Foods, Inc.

DALLAS, June 4, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Trinity Hunt Partners (THP), a Dallas-based private equity firm focused on the lower middle-market, today announced the sale of portfolio company C.J. Foods, a specialty manufacturer of super-premium dog and cat food, to J.H. Whitney Capital Partners, a Connecticut-based private equity firm.

THP's partnership with management began in 2009, when it invested in C.J. Foods alongside the seller and CEO, as well as other C.J. Foods management members. In partnership with THP, C.J. Foods executed a strategic growth plan that included a $20 million plant expansion and numerous capital improvement projects, which resulted in a doubling of C.J. Foods' capacity during THP's ownership. These growth initiatives improved production efficiencies and food safety, solidifying C.J. Foods' reputation as a best-in-class manufacturer of super-premium pet foods.

"In Trinity Hunt, we found a true partner, one that shared our values, promoted the interests of our employees, and encouraged our uncompromising commitment to quality," said Tod Morgan, Chief Executive Officer of C.J. Foods. "We would not be where we are today without Trinity Hunt's strategic guidance and their investment in time and capital over the past four years. Trinity Hunt was critical to our success."

 "C.J. Foods has built its reputation on unwavering food quality and safety and has a long-tenured history with some of the fastest growing premium pet food brands in the country," said Will Bixby, a THP Partner. "I believe that Tod Morgan and his management team are the best co-pack operators in the premium pet food industry, and I have full confidence in their ability to continue the company's strong growth well into the future." Mr. Bixby noted that since THP's initial investment, C.J. Foods has nearly doubled its EBITDA and tripled its enterprise value.

THP was advised by Harris Williams & Co. and Andrews Kurth.

Trinity Hunt Partners invests in established companies that are valued between $10 million and $150 million, where additional capital and operating resources can accelerate growth. The firm considers investment opportunities across a diverse range of industries, including healthcare services, industrial products and services, and business services.

To learn more about THP's partnership with C.J. Foods, contact Will Bixby at 214-777-6613 or [email protected].

SOURCE Trinity Hunt Partners