Headquartered in Chicago, Greenleaf will operate as a wholly-owned, independent subsidiary of Maple Leaf Foods, focusing on social purpose, sustainability, and the progress of the plant-based foods sector as key pillars to its business model.
Greenleaf said it is deeply committed to growing the plant-based food category and building a robust portfolio of plant-based brands and products while expanding the growth of its current brands.
"We have established leading brands that are known for delicious, high-quality products and we are excited to build on and invest in that expertise to drive innovation and accelerate our growth," said Dan Curtin, president of Greenleaf.
Curtin previously served as the president of Field Roast Grain Meat Co. and Lightlife Foods.
Current Greenleaf portfolio:
Founded in 1979 and purchased by Maple Leaf Foods last year, Lightlife Foods offers a wide portfolio of plant-based protein products including being the #1 brand of tempeh and the #1 plant-based hot dog (IRI). Earlier this year, Lightlife announced an expansion into Canada.
Founded in 1997, Field Roast products include plant-based meats and cheeses made using traditional food-making methods, and can be found in thousands of retail stores and over 500 restaurant menus nationwide.
US plant-based food sales increased 40% over the last year, according to IRI data, with plant-based meat alternatives growing 24% in dollar sales to $64m compared to 2% dollar growth of animal meat during the same time period.
"Leadership in the fast-growing plant-based protein market is fundamental to pursuing Maple Leaf Foods' broader vision to be the most sustainable protein company on earth."
