Makers of Almond Roca candy announce new CEO, international merger
Brown & Haley, the Tacoma-based candy makers behind Almond Roca, announced Tuesday that its longtime Chinese import and distribution partner, Sam Meng, will be the company’s new CEO.
In a news release, Brown & Haley said it was merging with Meng’s company, the BHM Group Ltd., marking a major milestone in the company’s history. Meng succeeded John Melin, who was the company’s fifth CEO in its 110-year history in 2022.
The News Tribune took a tour of the Almond Roca factory earlier this month, which has made that iconic candy, Mountain Bars and other goods in Tacoma for more than 100 years. Kathi Rennaker, who was named the new chief operating officer Tuesday, told The News Tribune that there will be no production changes to the Tacoma factory.
In the news release, Brown & Haley said the partnership with BHM “has propelled the company to expand its presence in China and other Asian markets,” and Meng and BHM “share the company’s commitment to strengthening Roca as a globally recognized brand.”
“Joining with BHM will expand our international reach, create opportunities for new and exciting products, and invest in our hometown team,” Anne Haley, chairman of the board and a third-generation owner of the Brown & Haley, said in the news release. “We considered many options for our future, and this was the best choice for our company and our legacy.”
Meng said in the release, “We have nothing but growth on the horizon.”
“I’ve been honored to be a part of the Brown & Haley family for many years, and BHM takes great pride in carrying forward the company’s legacy and its importance in so many people’s lives,” said Meng. “This is a new chapter for this celebrated brand, and I am humbled to have the shareholders’ trust to bring Roca into the future.”
