Norwest Equity Partners Invests in Old Hickory Smokehouse

Norwest Equity Partners (NEP), a Minneapolis-based middle market investment firm, made an investment in Old Hickory Smokehouse LLC, a manufacturer, marketer and distributor of food and beverage products sold into the retail grocery and foodservice channels under both branded and private label offerings. NEP’s investment was made in partnership with Wayne Wolf, chief executive officer of Old Hickory. The transaction closed Feb. 20, 2015; financial terms were not disclosed.

“Our firm has been actively seeking investments in this segment, and to have the opportunity to partner with an industry veteran such as Wayne Wolf and be involved with a company that is well-positioned for continued growth is very exciting,” says Todd Solow, an NEP partner and Old Hickory board member. “The company’s focus on prepared meats and accessories is attractive due to a large addressable market and multiple growth opportunities.”