Del Monte Foods files Chapter 11, seeks buyer 

Packaged food company Del Monte Foods Corporation, Walnut Creek, CA, began Chapter 11 proceedings in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey. 

The company’s brands include Del Monte, Contadina, and College Inn, and products include canned fruits and vegetables and fruit cup snacks. 

It is not affiliated with Del Monte Fresh Produce NA, Inc. BB #:111187 

Del Monte Foods says it has secured a commitment for $912.5 million in debtor-in-possession financing, including $165 million in new funding, from some of its current lenders. 

“This is a strategic step forward for Del Monte Foods. After a thorough evaluation of all available options, we determined a court-supervised sale process is the most effective way to accelerate our turnaround and create a stronger and enduring Del Monte Foods. With an improved capital structure, enhanced financial position and new ownership, we will be better positioned for long-term success,” said Greg Longstreet, President and CEO of Del Monte Foods, in a press release. 

According to its filing, these are its top 10 unsecured creditors: 

Fresh Del Monte Produce released this statement:  

“Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. (NYSE: FDP) is a publicly traded, independent company with no corporate, legal, or operational affiliation with Del Monte Foods Inc., a privately held U.S. company currently involved in litigation with certain debt holders. 

“The two companies operate completely separately, with distinct ownership, leadership, and supply chains. 

“Fresh Del Monte is not involved in any of the legal matters reported, and there is no impact on our financial standing, business operations, or customer relationships. For more information, please visit our Investor Relations page. 

“We remain fully focused on delivering the high-quality Del Monte branded fresh produce that our partners and consumers expect.” 

Additional information, including court filings and other documents related to the proceedings, are available on a website administered by the Company’s Claims Agent, Stretto, at https://cases.stretto.com/DelMonteFoods, or by contacting Stretto representatives Claims by email, at DelMonteInquiries@Stretto.com, or by phone, by calling toll free 833-228-5497 (or 714-263-3709 for calls originating outside of the United States).