Gal Gadot's Macaroni Brand Goodles Acquired by Italian Pasta Giant Barilla

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

Goodles, originally founded in October 2020 as Gooder Foods, markets itself as a healthier alternative to traditional macaroni and cheese products in the U.S. Gadot established the company with her husband, Yaron Varsano. The company stated that its mission was to make the comfort food healthier, tastier, and more joyful, emphasizing shared values with Barilla regarding a passion for food and an obsession with quality and taste.

Following the completion of the merger, subject to regulatory approval, Goodles will continue to operate as an independent brand with its headquarters remaining in Santa Cruz, California. The existing team of 73 employees, led by CEO and co-founder Jen Zuklie, will remain in place. Zuklie expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting Barilla's potential to help Goodles innovate and grow internationally while maintaining its quality standards.

Guido Barilla, chairman of the Barilla Group, stated that the company had been monitoring Goodles closely and was impressed by its brand strength, product quality, and growth momentum. He added that meeting the Goodles management team reinforced their decision to acquire the company. Zuklie highlighted the significant growth potential for Goodles, with over 90% of Americans yet to try the product, and expressed aspirations for global expansion.