A new player has entered the baking aisle. Artisan Bakery launch officially this week at IDDBA 2025 in New Orleans, introducing itself as a private-equity-backed platform built to scale innovation in the bakery sector.
Backed by HC Private Investments, Artisan Bakery arrives on the scene with the immediate acquisition of two standout businesses: Snackwerks, a flexible contract bakery manufacturer known for its R&D speed, and Specialty Bakers, a legacy in-store bakery supplier with over 125 years of history and consumer trust.
Together, the companies form the cornerstone of a platform designed to blend agility with heritage, bringing a renewed energy to a category ripe for reinvention.
A Strategic Union Of Capability And Craft
The Artisan Bakery launch is more than a new name — it’s a deliberate convergence of scale and specialization. Snackwerks brings technical flexibility and speed-to-market strength in snackable baked goods, while Specialty Bakers offers deep category experience in sweet classics like ladyfingers, cake rolls, and more.
The combined offering is positioned to serve both branded and private label partners with a focus on innovation across dayparts, from breakfast to dessert.
Proven Leadership At The Helm
Leading the new platform is CEO Kirk Trofholz, a recognized figure in the food industry with prior leadership roles at Nielsen-Massey, Dawn Foods, and Barilla North America.
“Artisan Bakery is built on a simple but powerful idea: great brands deserve great support,” said Trofholz. “We’re bringing together companies with differentiated capabilities and helping them reach new heights through innovation, resources, and a collaborative network.”
Focused On Growth And Partnership
While Artisan Bakery makes its public debut at IDDBA 2025, its long-term focus is clear: to create a best-in-class ecosystem of bakery and dessert brands, backed by strategic investment and shared operational strength. The company plans to expand its portfolio thoughtfully, prioritizing brands that complement its values of quality, creativity, and customer focus.
For retailers, foodservice operators, and brand owners, the Artisan Bakery platform represents a new opportunity to partner with a high-growth manufacturer that understands both scale and nuance.
Where To See Them
Artisan is inviting industry professionals to connect in person at booth #3065 at IDDBA 2025 or learn more at www.artisan-bakeries.com.
About Artisan Bakery
Artisan Bakery is a newly formed platform of innovative bakery and dessert companies, backed by HC Private Investments. With a growing portfolio that includes Snackwerks and Specialty Bakers, the company is focused on delivering high-quality, great-tasting products across all dayparts for retail, private label, and foodservice partners.
