In the final step of a merger that took place earlier this year, officials atCatelli Bros,Delimax Veal Inc.,NRV, andSpecialty Meats Inc. said they will operate under a newly formed parent company calledFontelli Food Group. As a result, Fontelli Food Group, Collingswood, N.J., now oversees the full integration of its veal as well as the processing and fabrication of its lamb and also offers a broad range of products for foodservice and retail distribution channels.

Officials said the Fontelli Food Group name combines the last names of the two families involved in this merger: the Fontaines and the Catellis. Officials said the Catelli family began processing veal more than 65 years ago and the Fontaines have more than 35 years of experience as well. 

“When we were developing the Fontelli Food Group name we felt it was important to remain connected to our families’ long-standing traditions while continuing to grow and position the company for the future,” said Tony Catelli, Catelli Bros. president. “The Fontaines, like us, are family-oriented businesses and we have all worked hard to earn a reputation for producing the highest quality products using industry-leading food safety and traceability standards.  We believe that working together as the Fontelli Food Group we will be able to build on that reputation.”

“The merger has created a stronger organization that allows us to expand products and services both regionally and nationally, better positioning us for the future,” added Alex Fontaine, president, Specialty Meats, Inc.  “The Fontelli Food Group name will always help us remember the hard work and dedication by our families that has brought our companies to where they are today.”

Officials said the new company -- one of the nation's largest veal and lamb purveyors -- serves the retail and foodservice industries with veal and lamb products under such brands as Catelli Brothers, Catelli Brothers Italian Bistro, Lido Gourmet, Chef’s Reserve, and Summit Ridge.

All the merging companies operate independently under their existing corporate structures and brand names. However, through their affiliation, these brands have national as well as regional distribution capabilities, officials said.