Dallas company acquires Hofmann Sausage Co.

VERONA — Dallas-based Zaccanelli Food Group (ZFG), with Oneida Nation Enterprises as lead investor, is the new owner of Hofmann Sausage Co. of Syracuse.

The new owners plan to take the regional and East Coast sausage, hot dog, and meat-product company founded by Frank W. Hofmann in 1879 to the national level.

“We plan to transition Hofmann from a regional icon to a national and international brand, while maintaining the Hofmann family tradition of quality and exceptional customer service,” Frank Zaccanelli, the new CEO of Hofmann Sausage Company, said in a release announcing the deal. “For Central New York customers, the only thing that will change is that no matter where they go, they’ll be able to enjoy the ‘World’s Greatest Hot Dog’ and be proud it all started in their home area.”

Zaccanelli said ZFG will leverage Hofmann’s strong brand, quality products, and loyal customer base along with increasing product placement through wholesale outlets and the development of a quick-service restaurant concept to take the company to the next level. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Rusty Flook, former Hofmann Sausage president, will remain with the company as vice chairman of the board, founding family member, and investor.

“The acquisition and succession by the Zaccanelli Food Group is a perfect way to honor and expand upon the 133-year Hofmann family legacy,” Flook said. “Our main objectives of excellence, quality, and tradition will not change. The markets and restaurants we serve can expect the same level of legendary service, and those who enjoy our products can count on us to provide the foods they love. This acquisition will allow us to continue doing that on a national and international scale.”

Zaccanelli, a Syracuse native, also serves as Hofmann’s new chairman.

Oneida Nation Enterprises CEO Ray Halbritter said joining in the acquisition demonstrates the nation’s drive to diversify its enterprises while reinvesting in Central New York.

“Hofmann is an iconic brand in this region,” he said. ‘The Oneida Nation is proud to be part of the group that takes it to the next level.” Halbritter will also serve on the board of directors.

The nation’s Turning Stone Resort & Casino will also serve as the world marketing center for all Hofmann activities.

Other major investors in the deal include Syracuse University men’s basketball head coach Jim Boeheim, restaurateur Phil Romano of Romano’s Macaroni Grill, former Syracuse Police Chief Dennis DuVal, and former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach. Mary Ann Van Lokeren, former CEO of St. Louis–based Anheuser Busch distributor Krey Distributing, will serve on the board.

Based in Syracuse, Hofmann Sausage Co. (www.hofmannsausage.com) is a meat manufacturer and distributor that offers more than 80 products at a variety of retail locations and online.

Contact DeLore at tgregory@tmvbj.com