Louisville foodservice distributor acquires Florida-based company as it expands footprint

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A Louisville-based foodservice distributor plans to grow by acquiring Florida-based Premier Produce.

What Chefs Want, previously known as Creation Gardens, said the acquisition will add 3,100 customer locations to its network, according to our partners at Louisville Business First.

The deal is expected to close this November, LBF reported.

During the acquisition, What Chefs Want is also building a 62,000-square-foot addition to its Louisville campus off La Grange Road. That makes its total footprint nearly 145,000 square feet.

The expanded facility will increase inventory capacity in key categories including produce, meat, seafood and dairy, as well as gourmet and staple items.

It's all part of the company's national growth strategy.

"These moves are about scale and service," Ron Turnier, founder and CEO of What Chefs Want, said in a news release.

Turnier added that the partnership will help "deliver even greater access to fresh ingredients, backed by the logistics and high-touch service chefs expect."

Premier Produce President Jim Chlebogiannis said joining forces with What Chefs Want will allow the company to expand its mission.

"We're excited to bring our customers new resources, broader product categories and innovative tools," Chlebogiannis said.

The companies said their integration will be seamless, providing access to expanded product lines and technology platforms to customers over time, LBF reported.

Premier Produce was founded in 2009, and serves as a channel partner for chefs, resorts, country clubs and foodservice establishments throughout its home state of Florida.

According to LBF, the company offers fresh vegetables, fruits, dairy and grocery items, "supported by longstanding grower relationships and a customer-focused sales force."

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