Gal Gadot's Macaroni Brand Acquired by Global Pasta Giant Barilla

Italian pasta giant Barilla has acquired Goodles, the mac and cheese brand co-founded by Israeli actress Gal Gadot. The deal, announced Thursday, places the American brand under the umbrella of the world's largest pasta company. The financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Goodles, founded in October 2020 as Gooder Foods, markets itself as a healthier alternative to traditional mac and cheese products in the U.S. market. Gadot established the company with her husband, Yaron Varsano. The brand will continue to operate as an independent entity with its headquarters in Santa Cruz, California, and its current CEO and co-founder, Jen Zsut, will remain in charge of its 73 employees, pending regulatory approval.

Goodles stated in a release that the company was born from the idea that mac and cheese could be healthier, tastier, and more joyful, highlighting shared values with Barilla regarding a passion for food and an obsession with quality and taste.

Guido Barilla, chairman of the Barilla Group, expressed that the company had been observing Goodles for some time and was impressed by its brand strength, product quality, and growth momentum. He added that meeting the management team, led by Zsut, solidified the decision to acquire the company.

Zsut noted that over 90% of Americans have yet to try Goodles products, indicating significant growth potential and aspirations for global expansion. She stated that Barilla was chosen as a partner because it can help Goodles innovate and grow internationally while allowing the company to maintain its decision-making autonomy and quality standards.