Oregon Freeze Dry (“OFD” or “the Company), one of North America’s largest and most technologically advanced freeze-dryer of food, probiotics, enzymes, proteins, specialty ingredients, and lyophilized pharmaceutical inputs, named Jim Cohen as president and CEO. He brings over 30 years of consumer packaged goods (CPG) experience to OFD’s operations and its leading freeze-dried brand in the adventure and outdoor meal category, Mountain House®.
OFD is owned by Arbor Investments, a specialized private equity firm that focuses exclusively on acquiring premier companies in food, beverage, and related industries.
“Jim is a strategic leader known for his demonstrated ability to build strong partnerships, deliver outstanding results and drive significant value for stakeholders,” said Carl Allegretti, President of Arbor and Chairman of the Board for OFD. “His deep understanding of CPG and specialized manufacturing will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in driving growth at OFD.”
Founded in 1963, OFD is headquartered in Albany, Ore., and has the production scale and capabilities to manufacture innovative and value-added freeze-dried products for a diversified and high-growth mix of end-markets. OFD’s freeze-dried food applications have superior flavor, long shelf-life and convenient preparation. From producing meals for the U.S. military to making freeze-dried meals for Outdoor Enthusiasts under its Mountain House® brand, OFD has perfected the art and science of manufacturing superior-tasting products that are nutrient-preserving, clean-label, and preservative-free.
“As a pioneer and leader in the freeze-dried sector, it is humbling and exciting to lead OFD's innovative business and deeply experienced team members," said Cohen. "I look forward to building upon OFD’s history and leadership position to reach our full potential in providing significant value to our customers across retail, pharmaceutical, and industrial industries.”
Cohen was most recently President and CEO of Red Collar Pet Foods, another Arbor Investments portfolio company and leading private label and national brand contract manufacturer of pet food and treats. During his time at Red Collar, Cohen oversaw the successful sale of its dry kibble pet food manufacturing business to the Colgate-Palmolive Company in August 2022 to support the growth of its Hill’s Pet Nutrition business, as well as the sale of its Miami, Okla., pet treat plant to Nestlé Purina PetCare in February 2023. He has held leadership positions for over 30 years, including roles in several categories at Mars, Inc. He began his career at Aramark and has advised an array of clients on a range of operational matters through his own consultancy.