PepsiCo is buying Spitz International Inc., the Alberta-based processor of sunflower and pumpkin seeds.
Upon completion of the acquisition, Spitz will continue its Canadian operations in Bow Island and Medicine Hat, Alta., and report to Frito-Lay North America.
“Spitz enables Frito Lay Canada to grow our seed business in Canada and help us expand in the U.S., while supporting PepsiCo’s broader health and wellness strategy,” said Frito-Lay North America president Al Carey.
“Spitz has a very strong brand in Canada, and we plan to create new growth opportunities for the brand across North America.”
Spitz International, which Dutch immigrants Tom and Emmy Droog founded in 1982, has become the largest marketer of seeds in Canada.
“Our modest plans have surpassed our expectations and now with a company like Frito-Lay behind Spitz, we know our legacy will continue and our company will be in a better position to reach our goal: to become the leading sunflower and pumpkin seed brand in North America,” Tom Droog said.
