The Farmer Companies has raised $17 million in Series A financing and appointed former Dot’s Pretzels CEO Randy Johnson as chief executive officer. Raff Ventures led the funding round, with participation from AJAX Capital Partners. Johnson succeeds founder Adam Farmer, who will remain actively involved as chairman.
The leadership change follows The Farmer Companies’ acquisition of WHISPS and supports its strategy of building a leading North American cheese-snacking business.
Johnson previously led Dot’s Pretzels, increasing the company’s annual sales from $19 million to $250 million in approximately three years. Hershey acquired the business for $1.2 billion in 2021.
The Farmer Companies’ portfolio includes WHISPS Cheese Crisps and an exclusive licensing partnership with Cabot Creamery to produce Cabot Creamery Popcorn.
The company described Cabot Creamery Popcorn as the fastest-growing U.S. food popcorn brand among the 13 leading brands tracked by NielsenIQ.
Proceeds from the Series A will support manufacturing partnerships, expanded national distribution and strategic acquisitions.
Founded in 2021, The Farmer Companies acquires, builds and operates premium consumer brands, with a current focus on cheese-based snacks and related categories.
KEY QUOTES:
“Under Randy’s leadership, Dot’s Pretzels became one of the greatest success stories in snacking history. Randy set Dot’s up for a strategic next step and led the company through its transformational growth phase.”
“Bringing him on means The Farmer Companies can build toward our goal of redefining cheese snacking for the next generation.”
“Randy joining our talented team as CEO lets me focus on what I do best: finding great brands, made with premium ingredients, to create unforgettable flavors.”
Adam Farmer, Founder and Chairman of The Farmer Companies
“I’m excited to help build one of North America’s great consumer products companies. Adam has already proven this category has room to grow. My job is to help it scale.”
Randy Johnson, CEO of The Farmer Companies
