American food brand Goodles, which was co-founded by Gal Gadot and her husband, Yaron Varsano, is being acquired by Italy’s Barilla Group. The deal was announced Thursday, but the parties did not disclose the purchase price or other financial terms.
The acquisition brings Goodles, which specializes in mac and cheese products, under the Barilla Group, considered the world’s largest pasta company. At this stage, it has not been announced whether Gadot will remain involved with the brand following completion of the deal or, if so, in what capacity.
Goodles was founded in October 2020 under the name Gooder Foods. Gadot and Varsano were among its founders, and the company sought to offer the American market an alternative to traditional macaroni and cheese products that it marketed as healthier.
The deal remains subject to regulatory approval, and even after it is completed, Goodles is not expected to be fully absorbed into Barilla’s operations. According to the companies’ announcement, it will continue to operate as an independent brand and will retain its headquarters in Santa Cruz, California.
Goodles said the brand “was born from the idea that everyone’s favorite comfort food, mac and cheese, could be healthier, tastier and more joyful."
The company pointed to the compatibility between the two sides, saying that Goodles and Barilla share values including “a passion for food and an obsession with quality and taste."
Barilla Group Chairman Guido Barilla said the company had been examining Goodles’ operations even before deciding on the acquisition. According to Barilla, the company had been following the brand “closely for some time" and was impressed by its strength, the quality of its products and its pace of growth.