Barilla acquires US brand Goodles for $750 million

Italian pasta manufacturer Barilla has completed the acquisition of the American mac and cheese brand Goodles for $750 million in an all-cash deal. The transaction marks Barilla’s first acquisition in the United States in over three years.

Founded in 2020 by Jen Zeszut and Paul Earle, Goodles has positioned itself as a healthier alternative in the macaroni and cheese market, gaining significant traction among Gen Z consumers and retailers such as Walmart and Whole Foods. The company reports high sales volume, claiming to sell five individual portions every second, totaling over 440,000 units daily.

The acquisition price represents more than four times Goodles’ annual revenue. At the time of the initial announcement in September, the company’s estimated trailing 12-month revenue was $175 million. This move is intended to strengthen Barilla’s presence in the American market and expand its reach into health-conscious consumer segments.