Clemens Food Group, the fifth largest pork processor in the U.S. with a vertically coordinated pork production operation, has announced the acquisition of Lancaster-based Kunzler & Company, Inc. The strategic purchase reinforces Clemens Food Group’s commitment to delivering exceptional products while joining forces with another long-standing, family-owned Pennsylvania based pork provider that shares similar core values and emphasizes family, team member development, customer-focus and ethical business practices.

Established nearly 130 years ago as a family farming venture in Hatfield, Pennsylvania, Clemens Food Group has evolved into a sixth-generation family owned business with a workforce of more than 5,000 team members spanning multiple states. The acquisition will add three more processing facilities, one in Lancaster and two in Tyrone, to the Clemens Food Group portfolio. In addition, Clemens Food Group will continue to offer the Kunzler brand and will look to provide current Kunzler customers best-in-class service and products.

“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, 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.”

By integrating Kunzler’s operations, the synergies will enhance Clemens Food Group’s capacity to continue producing value-added meat products of the highest quality. The strategic locations of the plants in Lancaster and Tyrone align with Clemens Food Group’s goals to expand support for Pennsylvania's agriculture and food processing industry.

As part of the acquisition, Clemens Food Group will assume ownership of all Kunzler facilities and transportation operations. Clemens Food Group is committed to driving continued success for the Kunzler brand and its team members, as well as delivering exceptional products to its current and future customers.

“It has been an honor and a privilege for the Kunlzer 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 & Company. “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.”

“Clemens Food Group is committed to upholding the values and traditions that have defined both companies for generations,” said Clemens. “From this day on, we look forward to becoming one team and are excited about the future ahead.”