Global ingredient solutions provider Solina has acquired Denver-based Epicurean Butter, strengthening its position in dairy-based flavour innovation and expanding its capabilities across the US food manufacturing, foodservice and retail sectors.

Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Epicurean Butter specialises in the development and manufacture of flavoured compound butters and customised dairy-based flavour solutions for food manufacturers, foodservice operators and retailers. The company has built its reputation on rapid product development and customised flavour systems designed to help customers deliver consistent, restaurant-quality taste across a range of applications.

The acquisition enhances Solina's portfolio by adding expertise in dairy innovation, flavour development and agile product innovation. Compound butters, made by blending butter with ingredients such as herbs, spices and cheeses, have become an increasingly popular format for manufacturers and operators seeking convenient, ready-to-use flavour solutions.

Michael Marks, regional CEO of Solina USA, said: "Epicurean brings exactly that combination of culinary creativity, technical expertise and entrepreneurial spirit, expanding our capabilities in dairy and unlocking new opportunities to support our customers across the US market."

The deal is expected to broaden Solina's culinary innovation platform by combining Epicurean Butter's dairy expertise with Solina's wider portfolio of culinary and beverage solutions. The company said the combined business will be better positioned to support product development across retail, foodservice and food manufacturing through an expanded range of customised solutions.

Anthony Francheterre, CEO of Solina, said: "Epicurean represents exactly the kind of business we look for: entrepreneurial, customer-focused and driven by innovation. We will expand what we can create for our customers while supporting the continued growth of both organisations."

Following the acquisition, Epicurean Butter will continue to operate from its Denver, Colorado, manufacturing facility, which will serve as Solina USA's centre of excellence for butter and dairy innovation. CEO Stephen Owens and the existing leadership team will remain with the business.

Owens said joining Solina would enable Epicurean Butter to accelerate its growth while continuing to focus on innovation and customer collaboration.

"Our mission has always been to help customers make everything taste better, effortlessly," Owens said. "We have a passion for bringing exceptional flavour to life through innovation, speed and close collaboration, and Solina shares those same values. Together, we see tremendous opportunities for our people, our customers and the future of the business."

The acquisition is the latest move by Solina to strengthen its North American footprint and expand its capabilities in value-added ingredient solutions. Globally, the company employs more than 5,000 people across more than 50 production sites and operates R&D centres in 21 countries, serving customers in more than 75 markets.