The Middleby Corporation, manufacturers of commercial cooking and industrial processing equipment, along with residential appliances, has acquired Imperial Commercial Cooking Equipment, producers of ranges, fryers, ovens, countertop equipment and other specialty cooking products for commercial kitchens, according to a company press release.

Imperial, based in Corona, California, has annual revenues of approximately $40 million.

"Imperial is a leading, highly-respected commercial foodservice brand with products that complement the existing Middleby core cooking category. While we are enhancing our current brand portfolio, this acquisition also expands our west coast footprint and allows us to provide broader capabilities and support to our domestic customers," Tim FitzGerald, Middleby CEO, said in the release. "We are excited to realize the many synergies between the companies. Imperial has impressive manufacturing capabilities, which will provide potential for greater efficiencies and flexibility to our commercial foodservice platform. Working with our long-standing international distribution partners, Imperial has a prime opportunity to expand its global reach. Imperial also has an established presence in the quickly growing fast-casual chain restaurant segment, which will be a benefit to the Middleby brands as well."

Imperial was founded in 1957. Middleby, founded in 1888, is based in Elgin, Illinois.

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