HATFIELD, PA.– Pork processor Clemens Food Group announced the acquisition of Lancaster, Pa.-based Kunzler & Co. Inc. 

The fifth-largest pork producer in the United States noted the acquisition would add three more processing facilities for Clemens, one in Lancaster and two in Tyrone. Clemens said it plans to continue producing products under Kunzler to meet the demand from current customers.

The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Clemens said the synergies between the two companies will enhance Clemens’ capacity as it continues to produce the highest quality value-added meat products. Clemens Food Group will assume ownership of all Kunzler facilities and transportation operations.

“The decision to acquire Kunzler stems from both organizations’ earned industry reputations, as both are viewed as trusted providers of high-quality products to the marketplace,” said Brad Clemens, president of Clemens Food Group. “As Chris Kunzler sought a successor to carry forward his family’s legacy after more than 123 years, I’m honored Clemens Food Group emerged as their ideal steward as there are many similarities between our cultures and commitment to excellence.” 

The company noted that the strategic location of Kunzler’s plants in Lancaster and Tyrone aligns with the pork producer’s goals to expand support for Pennsylvania’s agriculture and food processing.

“It has been an honor and a privilege for the Kunzler family to have been invited to the table of our customers for over 120 years, but now is the right time to pass the company reins,” said Chris Kunzler, former president Kunzler & Co. “We found a great steward to carry on the Kunzler family legacy and we look forward, with joy and anticipation, to what they will do to enhance and grow the brand and product offerings.”  

Founded in Hatfield, Clemens Food Group is a sixth-generation, family-owned business. The company operates a network of more than 25 farms throughout Indiana, North Carolina and Pennsylvania with more than 5,000 employees.