The domestic food & beverage industry has seen steady strategic M&A activity over the past 15 months, primarily driven by both North American and international acquirers that had been inactive for many years. While overall strategic buyer transaction volume has remained relatively steady at roughly 50 – 60 transactions per quarter, the composition of buyers has shifted, with several ‘sleepy’ strategics re‑entering the market after multiple years on the sidelines. Here are some key insights from our Q1 2026 report:
- Asset sales catalyzed by continued portfolio rationalization by public food companies, often under shareholder pressure
- On the buy side, strategics are under pressure to reignite volume growth as price inflation settles down and legacy brand sales stagnate
- ‘Sleepy’ strategic acquirers have awoken after several years of inactivity
- International acquirers increasingly targeting North American platforms to access the world’s most attractive consumer market and reduce supply chain risks
Download the full report to read more about the trends behind these unique trends in food & beverage M&A
