McCormick acquires Gourmet Garden for $150 million

Australia’s Botanical Food Company, which manufactures and sells the Gourmet Garden brand of chilled packaged herbs, has been purchased by flavour giant McCormick & Company for $150 million.

With annual sales of $70 million, and showing double-digit growth, Gourmet Garden’s chilled convenient herbs will complement McCormick’s existing branded herb portfolio. The new parent company plans to expand global distribution and build awareness with increased brand investment.

“Gourmet Garden exports its products to 15 countries with the largest market being the United States. We anticipate strong growth for these products, particularly in the US and key international markets where consumers appreciate the value and accessibility of cooking with a more convenient flavouring alternative,” said Lawrence E Kurzius, president and chief executive officer, McCormick & Company.

Founded in 1999, Gourmet Garden has approximately 200 employees and a modern manufacturing facility in Queensland. Currently, more than 90% of Gourmet Garden sales are to retail customers located in North America and Australia.