Blue Point Capital Partners, Cleveland, Ohio, acquired Italian Rose Gourmet Products, a manufacturer and distributor of premium salsas, dips, sauces and spreads to major retail and foodservice channels.

“We are pleased to be able to invest alongside the founders and current management to support Italian Rose in building on its long history in the food industry. We were drawn to the company’s leading position with fresh, better-for-you products, and believe Italian Rose is an excellent addition to the Blue Point portfolio,” says John LeMay, a partner with Blue Point. 

Italian Rose, headquartered in West Palm Beach, Fla., specializes in salsas, minced garlic, horseradish, ginger, prepared sauces, dips and marinades, sold in the refrigerated section of major grocery and club retailers. 

“Italian Rose brings with it the best in fresh gourmet food products, and partnering with Blue Point will allow the company to build on its strong track record of delivering the freshest and highest quality products on the market,” says Angelo Fraggos, an operating executive with Blue Point and newly appointed chief executive officer of Italian Rose. “We see strong opportunities to broaden the company’s market presence through a consumer-driven strategy centered on research and innovation.”

“As the company’s first institutional investor, and with strong relevant operating executive support, we are excited about our ability to further build Italian Rose’s market leadership within its segments. As the food industry continues to evolve and consumers demand more fresh and unique products, Italian Rose has the right recipe for continued growth. We’re excited to partner with this outstanding company and team,” adds Jon Pressnell, a principal with Blue Point.