16�SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2025�ABASTO.COM distribution to major retailers such as Whole Foods and Target. FOUNDER WELCOMES VILORE FOODS PARTNERSHIP “I’m thrilled that Tia Lupita Foods is joining the Vilore Foods family,” said Saldivar. “Vilore Foods understands the cultural roots that drive our brand and has the reach and experience to take our products to even more shelves and kit- chens across the country.” Saldivar’s brand pays homage to his mother’s cherished family hot sauce re- cipe, blending tradition with innovative food oferings that meet modern dietary preferences. A STRATEGIC FIT FOR VILORE FOODS For Vilore Foods, based in San Antonio, Texas, the acquisition enhances its strate- gic footprint in the multicultural food seg- ment, where demand for natural, healthy, and authentic products continues to grow. Since its founding in 1982, Vilore Foods has specialized in importing, distributing, and developing Hispanic heritage brands. Te company represents household na- mes like La Costeña and Jumex and part- ners with giants like Procter & Gamble and Mead Johnson Nutrition to extend their market presence in the U.S. EXPANDING REACH AND CAPABILITIES With more than four decades of experien- ce, Vilore Foods operates a robust natio- nal distribution network, extensive retail partnerships, and an expanding digital presence. Te company provides supply chain expertise, secure storage, and relia- ble delivery—key advantages it plans to leverage to grow Tia Lupita Foods. “Tia Lupita is an ideal complement to our mission of celebrating heritage and favor,” said Vargas. “Tis partnership allows us to diversify while staying true to the roots that make Hispanic food be- loved by millions.” Now under Vilore Foods’ umbrella, Tia Lupita is poised for accelerated growth, tapping into Vilore’s scale and expertise. Consumers can expect greater availability of Tia Lupita products across the U.S. For more information on Vilore Foods and its brand portfolio, visit www.vilore. com. To explore Tia Lupita Foods’ ofe- rings, visit www.tialupitafoods.com. buting and championing Hispanic food brands in the U.S. market,” said Edgar R. Vargas, Vilore Foods’ Director of Grow- th and Brand Development. Vargas emphasized the rising interest among U.S. households in authentic, cul- turally rooted foods. He noted that Tia Lu- pita’s momentum positioned it as a prime partner for Vilore’s expansion eforts. TIA LUPITA’S RISE AND SHARK TANK BOOST Founded by Hector Saldivar, Tia Lupi- ta Foods earned national attention in 2023 after its feature on ABC’s “Shark Tank.” Saldivar secured a deal with Ke- vin O’Leary, known as “Mr. Wonderful,” who recognized the brand’s potential to deliver healthier, authentic Mexican fa- vors to a broad audience. “From day one, I believed in your mission to bring healthier, authentic Mexican favors to the table, and you delivered,” O’Leary said in a statement. “Tis acquisition by Vilore Foods is a perfect match and a powerful validation of everything you’ve worked for.” Tia Lupita’s growth trajectory con- tinued post-”Shark Tank,” expanding VILORE FOODS ACQUIRES TIA LUPITA TO GROW HISPANIC BRAND PORTFOLIO By Abasto V ilore Foods has acquired Tia Lupita Foods, strengthening its position in the U.S. Hispa- nic food market and entering the boo- ming natural foods space. Te strategic purchase expands Vilore Foods’ portfo- lio, which includes La Costeña, Jumex, and Totis, adding a fast-growing brand known for its bold Mexican favors and clean-label products. The acquisition, announced Monday, reinforces Vilore Foods’ commitment to offering culturally connected brands that re- sonate with modern U.S. consumers seeking authenticity and healthier options. VILORE FOODS TARGETS U.S. NATURAL FOODS GROWTH With the addition of Tia Lupita Foods, Vilore Foods officially steps into the natural foods sector. Tia Lupita offers gluten-free, non- GMO, and preservative-free items, including its popular hot sauces, grain-free cactus tor- tilla chips, and Mexican Chili Crunch. “Tis acquisition signifes Vilore Foods’ powerhouse expertise in distri- IN THE NEWS