Quirch Foods has completed a $1.1 billion strategic debt refinancing that strengthens its capital structure and supports its long-term expansion plans across the United States, Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, and Latin America. The financing was led by Ares U.S. Direct Lending funds and Regions Bank, with support from a broader consortium of lenders.
The new capital structure expands the company’s asset-based lending facility and introduces a delayed draw term loan, providing additional flexibility to pursue growth initiatives. These resources will support investments in brand development, talent expansion, new technology, and operational innovation. The structure also enables Quirch Foods to accelerate future acquisitions and respond quickly to market opportunities.
Quirch Foods currently operates 24 distribution facilities, serving customers in 40 states and throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Its model spans retail, foodservice, and export channels, supported by a proprietary technology platform and long-standing supplier relationships. The company’s growth trajectory has expanded significantly since partnering with Palladium Equity Partners in 2018, when annual sales were roughly $1 billion. Today, Quirch Foods generates over $4 billion in annual revenue through its operations across 12 states.
Founded in 1967, the company now manages one of the most extensive brand portfolios in specialty food distribution, including exclusive distributor rights for Chiquita Brands frozen tropical fruits, Panamei Seafood, High River Angus, Kikiriquirch poultry, and Mambo Foods, along with licensed distribution of Certified Angus Beef. Its 2.4 million square foot refrigerated logistics network and fleet of more than 400 trucks support a broad customer base of retailers, foodservice operators, and cruise line partners.
KEY QUOTES
“This refinancing provides Quirch with a strong foundation to continue pursuing strategic acquisitions that complement our platform, expand our reach, and better serve our customers. We see meaningful opportunities to grow in both our core categories and adjacent markets, and this financing enables us to move decisively when those opportunities arise.”
Frank Grande, Chief Executive Officer, Quirch Foods
“The increased availability under our ABL allows us to better meet strong and growing demand from our customers. This refinancing underscores the confidence our financial partners have in our business model and long-term strategy, and it gives us the flexibility to continue investing in the areas that drive our growth and success.”
Carmen Sabater, Chief Financial Officer, Quirch Foods
