George Weston Ltd., Toronto, announced Jan. 19 that Maplehurst Bakeries LLC, a subsidiary of Weston Foods, has agreed to purchase Creative Occasions Inc., a Nashville, TN-based manufacturer of decorated cakes sold throughout the United States. The transaction is expected to close by the end of this month.

“This strategic acquisition adds talented people, high-quality new products and capability to our growing cake portfolio,” says Kevin McDonough, president of Weston Foods’ Frozen and Biscuit Divisions. “It will support the growing needs of our customers as we plan to offer an expanded and high-quality portfolio of products to our customers throughout the United States and Canada.”

Founded in 1967, Maplehurst Bakeries produces bakery products, including donuts, pies, cakes, sweet goods, breads and rolls, and gluten-free items for in-store bakery and foodservice customers. With products sold across North America, the company currently operates facilities in Washington, New Hampshire, New York, Georgia, Illinois and Indiana.

George Weston Ltd. is a Canadian public company founded in 1882 and, through its operating subsidiaries, constitutes one of North America's largest food processing and distribution groups.