CHICAGO, IL – MAY 7, 2021  |  Tilia Holdings (“Tilia”), a Chicago-based private investment firm focused exclusively on the food and nutrition supply chain, completed its investment in Wheat Parent, Inc. (“Wheat Montana” or the “Company”) from River Associates on April 30, 2021.  Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Three Forks, Montana, the Company develops and produces better-for-you breads, buns, and flours with clean-label attributes including non-GMO, organic, and locally sourced ingredients.  Wheat Montana has developed a strong and stable base of leading customers across its fresh distribution, frozen foodservice, and retail milling channels.

Laura Carden, CEO of Wheat Montana, and the current executive leadership team will continue to lead the Company.  “Wheat Montana is thrilled and inspired to be writing our next chapter with Tilia.  Their passion for food, experience, and knowledge of the industry will provide the key ingredients to dramatically expand our business.  We are excited to be part of such an extraordinary group of business leaders and look forward to the energy and expertise they can add to our business and our terrific team.  Tilia and Wheat Montana – the perfect recipe for success!”, said Ms. Carden.

Johannes Burlin, Co-CEO of Tilia who will serve as Chairman of the Board, said, “Tilia is excited by the opportunity to partner with Wheat Montana.  Over more than three decades, Wheat Montana has built strong brand recognition, leadership in its regional market with its expanding offering of premium and high-quality baked and milled products, and a diverse set of customers. The company has demonstrated that it is positioned to meet the growing consumer demand for locally-sourced and clean-label products.  The investment in Wheat Montana aligns with Tilia’s mission to invest in companies that help make the food supply chain safer, more nutritious, and more sustainable.” Eric Larson and JD Elder of Tilia have also joined the Board of Wheat Montana.

Eric Larson added, “Wheat Montana has strong roots in its home state. One long-time customer told us the first time he heard the term “Farm to Fork” was from Wheat Montana…long before it was even a popular phrase.  With locally grown grains and locally produced baked goods, the company has always been an innovator, which has resulted in superb customer relationships and an impressive product offering. The Tilia team is excited to be the partner Wheat Montana has chosen as it continues to develop this unique business.”

Mayer Brown LLP served as legal counsel to Tilia, while TCF National Bank and True West Capital Partners provided debt financing in support of the transaction. Lincoln International served as exclusive financial advisor to Wheat Montana.

ABOUT WHEAT MONTANA

Wheat Montana is a leading provider of premium bakery and milled products. The Company offers a variety of clean-label, non-GMO and organic grains, flours, mixes, and fresh and frozen bread products to retail and wholesale customers throughout the United States. For more information on Wheat Montana, please visit www.wheatmontana.com.

ABOUT TILIA HOLDINGS

Tilia is a Chicago-based private investment firm focused exclusively on making control investments in the evolving “farm-to-fork” segment of the global food supply chain. Tilia partners with growing, middle market companies who provide business services across the food supply chain and support leading, emerging and private-label CPG brands. The firm’s sector focused strategy is a successful approach to investments that spans three decades. Tilia believes its deep understanding of operations, its subject matter expertise in the food chain, and its disciplined approach to value creation uniquely position the firm to scale business services companies in the lower middle market. Through a value creation & governance model emphasizing stewardship, Tilia builds distinctive growth companies that enhance safety, nutrition & sustainability in the food supply chain.  For more information, please visit www.tiliallc.com.