The Goal: Building a Financial Legacy While Preserving a Lifelong Vision

After decades of pioneering the development of specialty Mexican baked goods and pastries (pan dulce) for in-store bakeries at national grocery chains, the owner of Azteca Bakeries was ready to retire. His goals were ambitious:

• Unlock generational wealth: With the vast majority of his wealth tied up in the company, he sought a full sale of the business to secure financial stability and create a lasting legacy for his family.

• Find the right partner: He wanted an acquirer with the resources and vision to expand Azteca’s reach and support its senior management team, while continuing to honor the traditions and quality that built its reputation.

• Support growth opportunities: With new customer demands on the horizon, Azteca needed an infusion of capital and expertise to fully realize its potential.

The Situation: A Beloved Brand Poised for Expansion

Azteca Bakeries had become a trusted name in the bakery industry, known for its authentic, high-quality Mexican pastries. The company was thriving, but faced challenges:

• Leadership in transition: The owner had already reduced his day-to-day involvement, delegating operational authority to his capable CFO/General Manager.

• Scaling pains: While growth opportunities were abundant, meeting the demands of new customers required additional investment and operational expertise.

The Solution: De NES Partners’ Tailored Approach

Understanding the owner’s vision and the company’s potential, De NES Partners designed a bespoke strategy:

1. Targeted outreach: A carefully curated group of potential strategic and financial partners with expertise in the food industry were carefully approached.

2. Competitive interest: Multiple initial offers were secured, and five well-qualified groups were invited to meet with Azteca’s ownership and management team.

3. Ideal match: The winning bidder was a premium bakery products provider backed by a private equity firm with $11.5 billion in assets under management and recognized by Inc. Magazine as a 5x Top Founder Friendly Investor.

The Results: A Win-Win-Win Outcome

The transaction delivered exceptional results for all parties:

• For the owner: The sale yielded generational wealth, freeing him from personal guarantees and transitioning him to a part-time consulting role while he enjoyed his well-earned retirement.

• For the company: The buyer’s commitment to investment ensures Azteca will have the resources to expand its reach and meet the growing market demand for high-quality Mexican pastries.

• For the employees: The company’s workforce transitioned seamlessly, with brighter opportunities ahead under the new ownership.

Why De NES Partners?

This success story highlights the expertise, care, and dedication that De NES Partners brings to every transaction:

• Expert guidance: From navigating competitive offers to ensuring the owner’s goals were met, De NES was with him every step of the way.

• Tailored strategy: De NES’s deep industry knowledge and targeted approach maximized the company’s value while securing the ideal acquirer.

• Legacy preserved: By finding a partner aligned with the owner’s vision, De NES ensured Azteca’s reputation and values would continue to thrive.

If you’re a business owner ready to take the next step—whether to secure your legacy, grow your company, or transition to retirement—De NES Partners is the trusted advisor you need to make it happen.