Opa-Locka Cold Storage Expansion Strengthens Quirch Foods’ Supply Chain
Quirch Foods, LLC, a prominent food distribution company and a portfolio entity of affiliates of Palladium Equity Partners, LLC, has recently expanded its distribution network by acquiring a 146,000-square-foot warehouse in Opa-Locka, Florida. This strategic addition enhances Quirch Foods’ operational capacity, bringing its total number of distribution centers to 23 across North America and the Caribbean. citeturn0search0
Strengthening Distribution Capabilities
The newly acquired facility, located at 12345 N.W. 38th Avenue, Opa-Locka, FL 33054, is equipped to handle dry, chilled, and frozen products. This acquisition is part of Quirch Foods’ ongoing efforts to bolster its supply chain infrastructure and improve service delivery to its diverse clientele, which includes major and independent retailers, foodservice providers, cruise lines, and the hospitality industry. citeturn0search0
Frank Grande, President and CEO of Quirch Foods, emphasized the significance of this development:
“This acquisition reinforces our commitment to supporting independent grocers and foodservice providers while expanding our ability to deliver high-quality products and tech-enabled solutions. Increasing our cold storage capacity strengthens our supply chain and enhances service capabilities, while ensuring we remain at the forefront of the industry.” citeturn0search0
Impact on Supply Chain Efficiency
The integration of the Opa-Locka warehouse is expected to optimize Quirch Foods’ logistics operations, enabling the company to meet growing customer demand with greater efficiency and Supply Chain flexibility. The facility’s advanced storage capabilities will allow for better inventory management and faster distribution of products, ultimately enhancing the overall customer experience. citeturn0search0
Palladium Equity Partners’ Perspective
Since Palladium Equity Partners’ investment in Quirch Foods in 2018, the company has pursued an aggressive growth strategy, with the Opa-Locka facility marking its sixth acquisition during this period. Daniel Ilundain, President of Palladium, highlighted the impact of these expansions:
“This expansion into Opa-Locka marks Quirch Food’s sixth acquisition since our investment in 2018, increasing refrigerated space more than 2x and frozen space more than 3x. We are proud to have helped Quirch Foods increase its distribution to service more than 40 states in the U.S.” citeturn0search0
About Quirch Foods
Founded in 1967, Quirch Foods has established itself as a leading food distribution company, serving a broad spectrum of clients across the United States, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The company’s portfolio includes proprietary brands such as Panamei Seafood®, High River Angus®, Kikiriquirch® poultry, and Mambo Foods®. Additionally, Quirch Foods is the exclusive distributor of Chiquita® Brands frozen tropical fruits and a licensed distributor of Certified Angus Beef®. cite turn0search0
About Palladium Equity Partners, LLC
Palladium Equity Partners, LLC is a leading private equity firm managing over $3 billion in assets. Established in 1997, the firm has built a strong reputation for investing in middle-market companies across various sectors, with a particular emphasis on the U.S. Hispanic market, founder- and family-owned businesses, and enterprises that offer strategic growth through mergers and acquisitions.
With a disciplined investment strategy, Palladium has successfully backed more than 230 businesses to date. This portfolio includes 41 platform investments—stand-alone businesses serving as a foundation for further acquisitions—and over 190 add-on acquisitions, which enhance the scale and capabilities of existing portfolio companies.
The firm’s approach is grounded in long-term partnerships and value creation, often working closely with management teams to support operational improvements, strategic growth initiatives, and market expansion. Palladium is especially recognized for its focus on culturally relevant investment opportunities, making it a unique player in private equity with its targeted interest in the U.S. Hispanic market.
The firm has significant experience across multiple sectors including consumer, services, industrials, and healthcare. Its ability to navigate diverse industries while maintaining a consistent investment philosophy has allowed Palladium to build a robust and diverse portfolio.
Conclusion
The acquisition of the Opa-Locka warehouse represents a significant milestone in Quirch Foods’ expansion strategy, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing distribution capabilities and service excellence. As the company continues to grow, this development positions Quirch Foods to better serve its customers and maintain its leadership in the food distribution industry.
