Swander Pace Capital Acquires Majority Stake In Voortman Cookies

SAN FRANCISCO -- Private-equity firm Swander Pace Capital has acquired Voortman Cookies. Based in Burlington, ON, Canada, Voortman's cookies and wafers are sold by retailers throughout the world, including vending operators.

Andrew Richards, managing director at Swander Pace Capital, noted that for more than 60 years, Voortman Cookies has been one of the most well-known brands in Canada and has grown its footprint throughout North America and across the world. "We see a huge opportunity to help the company expand even further through increased investment in product innovation, distribution and marketing," he said.

The transaction will allow chief executive Harry Voortman to relinquish his leadership role. "As I begin to transition from CEO to shareholder, advisor and board member, it is important to me to find an experienced partner who would carry on the Voortman Cookies legacy into the future," he said.

Douglas MacFarlane will become Voortman's new chief executive.