Colorado Premium, the protein supplier backed by Kainos Capital, has acquired Old Hickory Smokehouse, a Tennessee-based producer of smoked and cooked protein products. The deal expands Colorado Premium’s footprint in foodservice, retail, and industrial markets without disclosing financial terms.**

Established in 1964, Old Hickory Smokehouse specializes in premium smoked meats and cooked proteins, catering to restaurants, retailers, and DTC consumers. Colorado Premium, founded in 2010, already serves similar markets through its network of suppliers and logistics infrastructure. The merger combines Old Hickory’s production expertise with Colorado Premium’s distribution reach, creating a vertically integrated player in the protein supply chain.

This move signals intensifying consolidation in the foodservice protein sector, driven by rising demand for convenience foods and meal kits. Analysts suggest the acquisition positions Colorado Premium to compete with larger rivals like Tyson Foods and Hormel by leveraging Old Hickory’s brand heritage and production capabilities. The deal also highlights Kainos Capital’s focus on scaling mid-market food and beverage companies.

With both companies emphasizing quality and sustainability, the merger may accelerate innovation in plant-based and alternative protein lines. However, industry observers note potential integration challenges, particularly aligning supply chains and maintaining Old Hickory’s artisanal reputation under a larger corporate umbrella. The transaction underscores a broader trend of private equity-backed firms acquiring niche food producers to capitalize on post-pandemic shifts in consumer preferences.