New Water Capital Expands Consumer Products Portfolio with Dutch Gold Honey Acquisition

Mar 10, 2025 at 11:48 AM
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New Water Capital Partners, a private equity firm based in Boca Raton, has recently acquired Dutch Gold Honey, a renowned producer of ethically sourced honey. This strategic move also includes several associated businesses such as McLure’s Honey & Maple Products, Gamber Container Company, The Bacon Jug Company, and DGH Logistics. Founded in 1946 by Ralph and Luella Gamber in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Dutch Gold Honey has grown from a small backyard operation into a nationally recognized producer of high-quality honey. Known for its innovative squeezable plastic honey bear container, the company caters to a wide range of clients, including major grocery retailers, restaurants, and foodservice operators. The acquisition marks New Water's sixth investment in the consumer products sector, highlighting its commitment to family-led businesses with growth potential. The integration of these related entities aims to enhance operational capabilities and meet the increasing demand for natural sweeteners.

Legacy of Innovation and Quality in Ethical Honey Production

The history of Dutch Gold Honey is deeply rooted in innovation and quality. Since its inception in 1946, the company has transformed from a modest backyard venture into a leading national producer of ethically sourced honey. Its most notable contribution to the industry is the development of the iconic squeezable plastic honey bear container, which has become a household staple. Over the years, Dutch Gold has expanded its offerings to cater to a diverse clientele, supplying honey for various applications such as salad dressings, yogurt, and more. The company's commitment to transparency and quality has made it a trusted name in the honey industry, positioning it as an attractive investment opportunity for New Water Capital.

Dutch Gold Honey's journey began with humble beginnings in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Ralph and Luella Gamber started the business with a vision of producing high-quality honey using ethical sourcing practices. As the company grew, it introduced innovative packaging solutions that revolutionized how consumers interacted with honey. The squeezable plastic honey bear container became a symbol of convenience and quality, making Dutch Gold a household name. Beyond its core product, Dutch Gold has maintained strong relationships with major grocery retailers, restaurants, and foodservice operators, ensuring a steady supply of honey for various culinary uses. The company's dedication to ethical sourcing and quality control has earned it a reputation for trustworthiness, aligning perfectly with the growing consumer demand for transparent and reliable food products.

Strategic Expansion and Future Growth Opportunities

The acquisition of Dutch Gold Honey by New Water Capital represents a significant step in expanding their consumer products portfolio. By integrating several related businesses, including Gamber Container Company, DGH Logistics, McLure’s Honey & Maple Products, and The Bacon Jug Company, New Water aims to enhance operational efficiency and capacity. These entities have evolved into independent businesses over time, each contributing unique strengths to the overall portfolio. The acquisition underscores New Water's focus on investing in well-established businesses with substantial growth potential. With the increasing consumer preference for natural sweeteners, particularly organic and raw honey, this move positions Dutch Gold to capitalize on emerging market trends.

New Water Capital's strategy revolves around identifying and supporting businesses that are poised for significant growth. Dutch Gold Honey's long-standing reputation for innovation and quality makes it an ideal fit for this vision. The integration of associated companies will allow for better coordination and resource allocation, ultimately enhancing the company's ability to meet rising consumer demand. For instance, Gamber Container Company's expertise in packaging solutions and DGH Logistics' transportation services will streamline operations and improve supply chain efficiency. Meanwhile, McLure’s Honey & Maple Products and The Bacon Jug Company bring additional product lines and market reach to the table. Together, these entities form a robust platform for future expansion, ensuring that Dutch Gold remains at the forefront of the honey industry. Through strategic investments and operational improvements, New Water Capital aims to unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation within the consumer products sector.