The Bachman Co., Wyomissing, Pa., owned by the family of the late Joseph Welch, has sold its brands and certain assets to Utz Quality Foods Inc., Hanover Pa. Bachman, Jax, Thin'n Right and Chipitos distribution rights to the brands and an Ephrata, Pa., plant are also part of the sale. The transaction is expected to close in less than 30 days, according to a statement from Utz.

Scott Carpenter, Bachman president, says the company will change its name to Savor Street Foods Inc. and retain its plant in Hyde Park, Pa. Carpenter says he will be president of Savor Street and his executive team will remain intact. The company has about 185 employees.

"There will be a minor reduction in jobs initially," Carpenter says. "But the plan is to add jobs over the short course. Put it this way: Most all employees are going to have an opportunity for a job with Savor, Utz or one of their distribution partners."

After the sale, about 40 employees at the Ephrata plant and another 25 in distribution will be under the direction of Utz, Carpenter adds. He points out that both companies are excited about their potential growth. "It's going to narrow our focus and make a simpler business model," Carpenter says of Savor Street.

Source: readingeagele.com