SKKY Partners Invests in TRUFF: Elevating the Standards of Premium Sauce and Condiments

Boston & Los Angeles - SKKY Partners, a private equity firm specializing in high-growth consumer brands, has announced a significant investment in TRUFF, the renowned premium flavor-enhancement brand revolutionizing the sauce and condiments categories. TRUFF, founded in 2017 by Nick Ajluni and Nick Guillen, has gained recognition for its truffle-infused products and has expanded its reach to over 20,000 stores, including major retailers such as Whole Foods and Target. This strategic partnership marks a major milestone for both companies as they aim to propel TRUFF's growth and continue redefining the culinary experience.

TRUFF has built a loyal customer base through its distinct flavors, high-quality ingredients, and continuous product innovation. The brand's success is further exemplified by its collaborations with prominent names like Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Hidden Valley Ranch, Taco Bell, and even The Super Mario Brothers Movie. Notably, TRUFF has been featured on Oprah's Favorite Things list five times, solidifying its position as a leading player in the industry. With its hot sauce being the top seller in the natural channel and experiencing rapid growth in conventional grocery stores, TRUFF has established itself as a formidable force in the marketplace.

The co-founders, Ajluni and Guillen, will continue to steer TRUFF as co-CEOs and retain significant ownership stakes in the company. Additionally, Mark Ramadan, the former CEO of Sir Kensington's and Hu, will join TRUFF's board as an independent director. Ramadan's valuable experience in scaling consumer brands will undoubtedly contribute to TRUFF's future endeavors.

Kim Kardashian, co-founder and managing partner of SKKY Partners, expressed her enthusiasm for the investment, stating that TRUFF aligns perfectly with the firm's vision of nurturing next-generation brands with a genuine connection to consumers. She commended Ajluni and Guillen for introducing truffle-infused products into the mainstream food scene and creating a vibrant community around the TRUFF brand.

Jay Sammons, co-founder and managing partner of SKKY Partners, echoed Kardashian's sentiments, emphasizing his excitement in supporting TRUFF's visionary founders. He highlighted TRUFF's unique brand positioning and category-defining products as key factors that attracted the firm to invest in the company. Sammons also underlined SKKY Partners' expertise in building and scaling consumer brands, which will undoubtedly fuel TRUFF's future growth.

In response to the partnership, Ajluni and Guillen expressed their satisfaction with SKKY Partners' backing, recognizing the firm's understanding of their vision and the powerful connection they have with their customer base. They also expressed their gratitude for Mark Ramadan's addition to the board, citing their admiration for the significant accomplishments of Sir Kensington's and Hu.

David Brisske, Managing Director of SKKY Partners, emphasized the firm's commitment to supporting creative founders who bring a fresh perspective to the market. He praised Ajluni and Guillen for pioneering a unique brand voice and introducing differentiated products that have expanded the customer base in their respective categories. Brisske expressed enthusiasm about joining the TRUFF team for the next chapter of their journey.

The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2024. SKKY Partners' legal advisor was Kirkland & Ellis, while Buchalter represented TRUFF in the deal.

Mark Ramadan, the co-founder of Sir Kensington's, has an outstanding track record in the condiments industry. He served as the CEO of Sir Kensington's from its inception in 2010 until its acquisition by Unilever in 2017. Ramadan's leadership expertise was further showcased during his role as CEO of Hu, a successful better-for-you chocolate and snacking brand. He has also garnered recognition for his investment and advisory roles in various consumer businesses. Ramadan's addition to TRUFF's board adds more depth and experience to the company's leadership team.

SKKY Partners is a private equity firm co-founded by Kim Kardashian and Jay Sammons. The firm focuses on controlling and actively investing in high-growth, market-leading consumer companies that forge deep emotional connections with their target consumers. SKKY Partners prioritizes sectors such as health & wellness, food & beverage, luxury, and more.

TRUFF is a brand known for its luxury pantry staples that elevate the dining experience. Initially gaining popularity through its Instagram blog called "@sauce," TRUFF has rapidly grown in the hot sauce space due to its unique flavor profile and visually appealing packaging. The brand's portfolio includes hot sauce, pasta sauce, mayonnaise, truffle oil, and truffle salt. TRUFF products can be found in stores across the United States, as well as internationally in the UK, Australia, Kuwait, and South Korea.

For more information about TRUFF and its range of products, visit [www.TRUFF.com](https://www.TRUFF.com).