The Zanchetta group announced this Monday (29) the purchase of Ceratti, a brand of cold cuts and sausages present in Brazilian homes for over 90 years. The operation transfers total control of the company, which belonged to the American group Hormel Foods since 2017, to Brazilian hands.
Ceratti was born from the tradition of Italian charcuterie and owns the Bologna mortadella, an affectionate symbol of São Paulo's gastronomy. With the acquisition, the Italian heritage brand comes under the management of a national group.
Entry into the swine segment
For Zanchetta, owner of the Alliz, Mondelli, and Frangoeste brands, the deal marks its debut in the high-value-added processed pork segment. The company has been operating in the food industry for over 30 years and is now expanding its protein portfolio, strengthening its presence in the consumer-focused retail market.
“Ceratti is a brand with history, high quality, and a broad portfolio. It has a genuine connection with the Brazilian palate, especially that of São Paulo residents,” stated José Carlos Zanchetta, CEO of the group. According to him, the acquisition preserves the values that have made the company a benchmark for clients and partners.
Shared values
The partnership between the two companies is based on shared values, according to the official statement. Origin and management of family roots, Italian heritage. The historical commitment to product quality was cited as the basis of the agreement.
Hormel Foods acquired Ceratti in 2017 when it bought Cidade do Sol, the brand's original owner. At the time, the American company used the business as an entry point into the Brazilian market and a platform for expansion in South America. However, the company did not achieve the expected results in the country and began to prioritize divestments to concentrate resources in higher-growth markets.
Next Steps
The Ceratti factory is located in Vinhedo, in the interior of São Paulo state. The transaction was advised by Banco Santander, and the value of the deal was not disclosed.
Until the purchase is approved by the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (Cade) and other competent bodies, Ceratti and Zanchetta will continue to operate independently. Both companies affirm that they will maintain their current relationships with employees, business partners, and clients.
