Dec 10, 2012

Rocket Farms’ Subsidiary Buys Cut Herb ProducerSource: Rocket Farms

Rocket Farms Herbs, Inc., a subsidiary of Monterey Peninsula Horticulture, Inc., recently acquired the assets of HerbThyme Farms, the largest cut herb producer in the United States.

HerbThyme Farms grows and ships more than 5 million pounds of fresh herbs annually. HerbThyme Farms has approximately 200 acres of conventional farmland and 150 acres dedicated to the growing of USDA certified organic herbs.

The acquisition supports Rocket Farms Herbs’ growth strategy to innovate new products, enter new categories, and expand into new channels of distribution. Details of the transaction were not disclosed.

“HerbThyme is a great brand supported by 500 talented employees that utilizes cutting edge growing and packaging technologies to produce the finest and freshest cut herbs in the country, which are complementary to our existing potted herb products,” said

Charles Kosmont., Monterey Peninsula Horticulture chief executive officer. “With the financial resources and operating expertise of a strong parent company we believe HerbThyme can flourish and have a strong future.”

Howard Roeder,

HerbThyme’s chief executive officer, along with his entire senior management team, will remain in place and continue to oversee the day-to-day operations of the business. The HerbThyme, Herbal Garden and New England brand names will remain unchanged. Rocket Farms Herbs has also extended job offers to substantially all of HerbThyme’s approximately 500 employees.

“We are thrilled to be joining the Monterey Peninsula Horticulture family of growers,” said Howard Roeder. “As one of the largest and most respected greenhouse growers in the United States, Rocket Farms Herbs’ success is a testament to the company’s strategic vision, disciplined management and cutting edge technology, systems and processes. We are pleased to have found such a strong partner who can provide our company with deeply enhanced opportunities.”