A significant change affects the international food sector. The Doria, the historic AGRO Company of the Nocerino Sarnese, and the American Winland Foods come together under a single name, Windoria. The decision was deliberated by the Board of Directors of LDW Investment Top Holding, a company controlled by Investindustrial funds, a European group active in private equity. Windoria was born with an already imposing dimension: almost $ 4 billion in turnover, a network of 28 production plants and about 5000 employees. The new reality vertically integrates the food supply chain, setting up the skills and structures of two leading companies in their respective markets. With this union of synergies, as declared by the two companies, the group aims to support customers in the development of new products, strengthen the supply chains and increase the value offered to consumers.
The historical roots of the two companies and the objectives
The story of Windoria sinks in two parallel traditions: that of Zerega, the first producer of pasta in the United States since 1848, and that of La Doria, founded in the mid -twentieth century by the Ferraioli family, which still guides the Italian company. These origins, combined with the experience of Winland Foods in the North American market, created the foundations for a group capable of competing worldwide. Windoria presents itself as a strategic partner for retailer, catering operators and large Foodservice brands. The goal is to offer a large and differentiated portfolio of products, with high quality standards and a resilient supply chain, distributed on multiple continents. As the CEO Eric Beringause pointed out, the solutions produced by Windoria are already present on supermarket shelves all over the world and respond to the needs of consumer in constant evolution.
The governance of Windoria reflects continuity with the original companies. Eric Beringuse maintains the charge of CEO both by Winland Foods and Windoria. Antonio Ferraioli, former president of La Doria, takes on the presidency of the new group, also remaining CEO of the Italian reality. Dave Barta instead holds the role of CFO, in continuity with its functions in Winland Foods.
A market in transformation
The union of La Doria and Winland Foods arrives in a crucial moment for the private brands sector. In recent years, the sales of these products have exceeded those of national brands, marking a transformation of consumer purchase habits. According to the 2024 report of the Private Label Manufacturers Association, over 70% of US buyers consider the private brand products equal to or higher than those of traditional brands.
Thanks to the global structure and vertical integration, Windoria aims to become a point of reference in food innovation. The ability to develop new products, differentiate brands and respond quickly to market demands represents the heart of the group’s strategy. As Antonio Ferraioli said, the new structure was born with respect for the history and the values that have guided both companies, but with the gaze aimed at the future and excellence.
