Bensenville, Illinois, U.S.A.-based Fortune International announced on 3 June it has acquired Classic Provisions, a gourmet products provider and distributor headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S.A.
In a press release, Fortune International – one of the largest seafood and specialty food distributors in the Midwest U.S. – said the acquisition will give it distribution efficiencies, more staff expertise, additional supplier relationships, and access to a wider range of high-quality products.
“Once we entered the Minnesota market, it became obvious to us that the reputation of Classic Provisions with their customers was remarkable. We are truly excited to add their expertise, service level and high-quality products to the Fortune Fish & Gourmet team,” Fortune President and CEO Sean J. O’Scannlain said.
Fortune expanded into Minnesota with the acquisition of Coastal Seafoods in 2016. It now operates a facility in Minneapolis and the company said Classic Provisions will eventually transition to operating out of that location, phasing out the use of its current facility in Plymouth, Minnesota, later this summer.
John E. Byom, co-owner and CEO of Classic Provisions, will stay on through the transition, Fortune said. Sally Z. Witham, co-owner and president of Classic Provisions, will continue with Fortune as vice president of Fortune Gourmet Minnesota.
“We’re excited by the new options for our customers and suppliers. We’ve always been on the lookout for new specialty products for our customers and that won’t change,” Witham said. “Also, our staff will be providing customers with their same well-known expertise and personalized service, with the added benefit of Fortune’s products and service.”
