Deal Strengthens Largest Commercial Real-Estate Ownership Along North Shore

CHICAGO (March 2, 2025) – Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (“HCRE”), part of Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), proudly announces the completion of its acquisition of 530 Winnetka Avenue in Winnetka, Illinois. This latest acquisition solidifies HCRE’s status as the largest commercial real-estate owner along the North Shore, with an impressive portfolio of over 30 properties from Wilmette to Lake Forest, including more than 20 in Winnetka.

“We are thrilled to have successfully finalized the deal for 530 Winnetka Avenue,” said Greg Hoffmann, Principal & CEO of HCRE. “Our commitment to Chicago’s North Shore is unwavering, and we will continue to invest in the community, providing premier commercial spaces that support local businesses and drive economic growth.”

This announcement follows December’s news of HCRE’s acquisition of 10 new properties, nine of which are set for future Oberweis Ice Cream & Dairy Store locations, with the tenth—510 Winnetka Avenue—set to become a new store location.

HCRE’s growth momentum is undeniable, with a diverse portfolio that includes both stabilized and value-added assets in prime locations nationwide. The company’s current holdings span California, Canada, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin.

For more information, visit www.hoffmanncre.com.Hoffmann Family of Companies.

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About Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate
Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), a subsidiary of HF Companies, is a premier real estate investment and development firm specializing in the acquisition, management and redevelopment of commercial properties. With a diverse portfolio that spans stabilized and value-added assets, HCRE is committed to enhancing the communities in which it operates through thoughtful development and superior property management. HCRE’s strategic investments are focused both within the United States and internationally, reinforcing its position as a leader in the commercial real estate industry. For more information, visit www.hoffmanncre.com.

About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 120 global brands and employs 16,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.

For More Information:
Rachel Berkowitz | [email protected]

Strategic Investment to Enhance and Expand Flourishing Agricultural Portfolio

SAN FRANCISCO (Feb. 19, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a family-owned private equity firm based in the United States, is pleased to announce the acquisition of a controlling stake in Bay Area Herbs & Specialties (“Bay Area Herbs”).

Founded in 1990, Bay Area Herbs is a premier supplier of specialty produce, offering diverse products, from culinary herbs and baby vegetables to edible flowers, specialty berries, and organic produce, to food service and retail outlets nationwide. Nestled in San Francisco’s culinary hub at the Golden Gate Produce Terminal, Bay Area Herbs leverages its prime location, vibrant food scene, and proximity to major growing areas to innovate and distribute the freshest quality produce. HF Companies’ strategic investment underscores its commitment to supporting local farmers and contributing to the economic development of surrounding communities.

Steven Hurwitz, President of Bay Area Herbs, shared his excitement about the new partnership: “We are privileged to work with the best growers in our industry, and now we have the honor of collaborating with one of the foremost family offices. This partnership positions us to expand our customer base and broaden our product reach, serving retailers, chefs, foodservice distributors, and wholesalers alike to help them achieve their culinary goals.”

Hurwitz further explained how the relationship will expand market presence. “By partnering with World Wide Farms, another Hoffman Family Company, we have added first-class domestic grown culinary herb production. Plus, we can access a Midwest distribution hub to expand our reach and shorten the transportation time-to-market.”

Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO of HF Companies, emphasized the importance of this acquisition: “Investing in agriculture—one of our core investment theses—not only supports local farmers but also fosters economic development and job creation within the community. We are thrilled to join forces with Steven and contribute to the growth of the Bay Area Herbs brand. We foresee numerous synergies with our other agricultural portfolio companies, including World Wide Farms.”

Bay Area Herbs was advised by Cody Peak Advisors of El Segundo, Calif. For more recent news about Hoffmann Family of Companies, visit www.hfcompanies.com. 

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 120 global brands and employs 16,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.

About Hoffmann Family of Companies – Agricultural Vertical:

This rapidly growing area of investment for HF Companies produces herbs, wine, fresh plants, flowers, golf products, dairy products. The family’s holdings represent over 5,000 acres of land, including:

Coming soon: One of the nation’s largest poinsettia planting companies (under a letter of intent)

For More Information:
Rachel Berkowitz | [email protected]

Hoffmann Augusta Wineries recently triumphed at the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America’s (WSWA) 2025 Access LIVE Wine & Spirits Tasting Competition in Denver. During the blind competition, a panel of judges selected the top contender in each category, assessing entries based on quality, complexity, balance, and craftsmanship.  

Hoffmann Augusta Wineries earned the highest distinction, “Best of Show” Double-Gold, for its Mount Pleasant Tawny Port, a Gold Medal for Augusta Vidal Blanc, and a Silver Medal for Montelle Chambourcin. 

WSWA is the only national membership organization of wine and spirits distributors in the United States, and the Access LIVE Wine & Spirits Tasting Competition is the premier industry event for wholesalers looking to showcase their brands. With representatives from all 50 states, Access LIVE attendees distribute more than 80% of all wine and spirits sold in the United States.  

As a “Best of Show” winner, Hoffmann Augusta Wineries’ Mount Pleasant Tawny Port participated in the Best of Show Tasting, accessible to all attendees, and was featured in the Winner Display Case alongside the competition’s most esteemed entries. 

We want to congratulate our head winemaker, Colin Pennington, as well as the entire Hoffmann Augusta Wineries team and talented Winery Cellar Staff for their dedication and hard work.  

HF Companies operates a vast network of businesses in the Greater St. Louis area, with a portfolio that extends to several wineries including Mount Pleasant Estates, Augusta Winery, Balducci Vineyards, and Montelle Winery. We remain dedicated to expanding the Augusta wine region, enriching its historical legacy, and offering exceptional tourism experiences. Learn more about our vineyards at VisitAugustaMO.com. 

For More Information:
Rachel Berkowitz | HF Companies PR | [email protected]

HF Companies products including Augusta Winery, Montelle Winery, Oberweis Ice Cream and more will be available at Enterprise Center

ST. LOUIS (Jan. 31, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a family-owned private equity firm based in the United States, is excited to announce a special partnership with the St. Louis Blues as the team’s Preferred Wine Partner. HF Companies is also the proud owner of The Kelly Cup Champion Florida Everblades, the ECHL affiliate of the St. Louis Blues.

HF Company Products including Augusta Winery, Montelle Winery, and other growing HF Company businesses such as Oberweis Dairy products are available now at concession kiosks throughout the Blues home arena, the Enterprise Center.

Tom Fuchs, General Manager of HF Company’s Augusta Area wineries, said, “We are thrilled about this partnership and to support the St. Louis Blues, our town’s iconic team. Our company is dedicated to helping grow Greater St. Louis, and we thought this was the perfect way to raise a glass to the community.”

With over 45 businesses in and around St. Louis, HF Companies is a robust family office deeply embedded in the local community. In 2021, the Hoffmann Family invested in Mount Pleasant Estates, the first and oldest winery in the Augusta American Viticultural Area (AVA). Other wineries in the portfolio include Augusta Winery, Balducci Vineyards, and Montelle Winery.

Hoffmann Family of Companies reaffirms its commitment to the state of Missouri, focusing on the continued growth of the Augusta-area wineries while enhancing the town’s vibrant tourism offerings. Learn more about our vineyards at VisitAugustaMO.com.

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 120 global brands and employs 16,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.

For More Information:
Rachel Berkowitz | HF Companies PR | [email protected]

Manufacturing is a cornerstone of the economy, driving innovation and providing millions of jobs and supports countless supply chains. We are pleased to celebrate recent achievements by Viking Plastics, part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, and a leader in injection molding and engineered solutions

Enhanced Partnership with Poly-Cast

Recently, Viking Plastics announced a renewed partnership with Poly-Cast, an injection molding company based in Suzhou, China. Poly-Cast Suzhou operates 17 injection molding machines, serving both automotive and industrial markets. This enhanced relationship aims to provide comprehensive global manufacturing solutions, meeting the diverse needs of clients across various markets.

The partnership facilitates the exchange of products, technologies, and best practices between the two organizations. Additionally, it enables both companies to better meet their customers’ regional manufacturing requirements, offering advanced capabilities, competitive pricing, and localized support. This collaboration is designed to enhance customer satisfaction by leveraging the global solutions both companies have developed over the years.

Shawn Gross, President and CEO of Viking Plastics, expressed his enthusiasm for the expanded partnership, stating, “I am pleased to continue our relationship with Poly-Cast and build on the previous 15+ years with this strategic alliance. Poly-Cast is a systems-driven, high-quality injection molding supplier with many similarities to Viking. We look forward to providing our customers with international sources for quality injection molded and assembled products.”

This expanded partnership not only strengthens the relationship between Viking Plastics and Poly-Cast but also enhances their ability to meet customer demands, promoting a culture of collaboration and innovation within the injection molding community.

Recognition at the SPE Automotive Innovation Awards Gala

At the end of 2024, the Viking Plastics team attended the SPE Automotive Innovation Awards Gala in Michigan, where they were honored with two prestigious awards for their innovative contributions to the automotive industry:

  • Materials Award: In partnership with Envalior, Sogefi, and Ford, Viking Plastics was recognized for utilizing cutting-edge materials to solve complex challenges within the automotive sector.
  • Powertrain Award: Alongside Cooper Standard and Ford, they earned this honor for their innovative design, advanced manufacturing technologies, and cost-saving initiatives as part of the Mustang Mach-E project.

“We are deeply grateful to our suppliers and customers for trusting us as their go-to manufacturer, allowing us to push the boundaries of what plastics can achieve,” added Gross. “I also want to recognize our team for their dedication and expertise!”

To learn more about Viking Plastics, visit their website; for more on the recent Poly-Cast partnership news, read their press release.

Fast-Growing Family Office Welcomes New General Counsel and Head of Marketing

CHICAGO (Jan. 27, 2025) – The Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a family-owned private equity firm based in the United States, today announced two new hires in its corporate office: Amy Cline as General Counsel and Rachel Berkowitz as Vice President of Marketing & Communications.

About Amy Cline  

Amy joins HF Companies as General Counsel, bringing extensive experience from her tenure with two private equity portfolio companies: as General Counsel & Chief Risk Officer for a startup in revenue cycle data analytics software and as well as General Counsel & Corporate Secretary for a third-party administration company in Insurtech. Previously, Amy was Associate General Counsel at a Health Care Service Corporation. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri – Columbia, a Juris Doctorate degree from the University of Kansas, and an MBA from Avila University. Additionally, Amy is a member of the Executive Forum, a thought leadership organization for executive leaders, and a graduate of the Centurions Leadership Program.

About Rachel Berkowitz  

Rachel comes to HF Companies from a renowned global financial services firm, where she was a member of the Public Relations and Institutional Marketing teams. She also served as the primary relationship manager for the firm’s Global Private Equity and Venture Capital arm. Rachel also brings valuable experience from a leading PR agency, where she collaborated with diverse clients across the corporate, nonprofit, restaurant, and hospitality sectors. A Marquette University alumna, Rachel graduated with honors and currently serves as President of the Associate Board for VOCEL, a nonprofit dedicated to early childhood education in Chicago.

“2024 was an extraordinary year for HF Companies, and welcoming new team members to the office is always exciting” said Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO of HF Companies. “Amy and Rachel are both great talents, and we’re happy to have them on board and as part of the family.”

For more information about Hoffmann Family of Companies and its portfolio, visit www.hfcompanies.com. 

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 120 global brands and employs 16,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.

For More Information: [email protected]

Mackinac Island’s Premier Luxury Private Dock

Mackinac Island, MI (Jan. 3rd, 2025) – The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies), a family-owned private equity firm based in the United States, proudly announces the acquisition of the East Dock, Mackinac Island’s premier luxury private dock. This strategic acquisition enhances Hoffmann Marine’s portfolio to 46 vessels across seven states, including 15 docks.

The East Dock offers an array of premium amenities, including a crew lounge, laundry facilities, modern grilling stations and more. The facility has also undergone significant renovations, including the installation of a state-of-the-art electrical system with service of up to 100 amps, water access at every pedestal, high-speed Wi-Fi and convenient garbage disposal services, ensuring a superior experience for its guests.

“We are thrilled to add the East Dock as our newest acquisition in Michigan. We look forward to continuing the dock’s legacy of providing first-class service and facilities to guests for years to come,” said Jenny Gezella, President of Hoffmann Marine. “Adding the East Dock to our portfolio continues to show the Hoffmann Family’s investment in Mackinac Island.” The East Dock will continue to be managed by Veronica Dobrowolski.

Veronica Dobrowolski, CEO of Arnold Transit Company & Sip n’ Sail Cruises, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I’m thrilled to support the Hoffmanns in expanding their marine presence on Mackinac and look forward to continuing to welcome guests to this stunning island.”

To learn more about the East Dock, visit eastdockllc.com or call 906.430.0095.

About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 120 global brands, and employs 16,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Aviation, Agriculture, Financial Services, Hospitality, Business & Professional Services, Industrial, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate and Transportation.

With Two Additional Winnetka Properties Under Contract, HCRE Continues to Solidify Its Role as the Largest Landlord in the Region

Winnetka, IL (Dec. 23, 2024) — ​​Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, is proud to announce the acquisition of 10 new properties and one new property under contract. Nine of the newly acquired properties are current Oberweis Ice Cream & Dairy Store locations being purchased from the Oberweis family, with the tenth — 510 Winnetka Avenue — set to become a new store location.

These strategic acquisitions reinforce HCRE’s ongoing commitment to Oberweis, securing these properties as long-term assets and supporting the brand’s expansion across the country with new store locations.

“We are thrilled to announce our latest acquisitions and the new Oberweis ice cream store location in Winnetka,” said Greg Hoffmann, Principal & CEO of HCRE. “This milestone further enhances the national expansion of Oberweis Ice Cream and supports the growth of this iconic brand. It also represents a positive step forward for the communities involved.”

The newly acquired locations are:

  • 510 Winnetka Ave, Winnetka, IL 60093 (new Oberweis Ice Cream & Dairy Store location coming soon!)
  • 925 S Route 59, Bartlett, IL 60103
  • 338 W. Army Trail Road, Bloomingdale, IL 60108
  • 2105 N. Veterans Parkway, Bloomington, IL 61704
  • 4568 & 4590 Telegraph Road, Oakville, MO 63129
  • 1816 Highway K, O’Fallon, MO 63366
  • 7202 W. 159th Street, Orland Park, IL 60462
  • 1735 Algonquin Road, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
  • 30 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, IL 60193
  • 1790 West Main Street, St. Charles, IL 60174

In addition, HCRE is under contract to acquire 530 Winnetka Avenue, further expanding its presence in the area. These acquisitions strengthen Hoffmann’s position as the largest landlord in Winnetka and underscore its continued investment in the community.

Greg Hoffmann added, “With our contract to acquire 530 Winnetka Avenue, we are excited to further enhance the area and continue supporting the businesses and residents that make Winnetka such a remarkable area.”

HCRE’s diverse portfolio features retail, commercial and office spaces, multi-family housing, industrial properties and land under development. Dedicated to upgrading each property to a Class “A+” standard, HCRE’s portfolio is valued at over $1 billion.

HCRE is experiencing rapid growth, building a portfolio that includes both stabilized and value-added assets in prime locations across the country. Currently, HCRE’s portfolio includes properties in California, Canada, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin.

About Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate
Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), a subsidiary of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, is a premier real estate investment and development firm specializing in the acquisition, management and redevelopment of commercial properties. With a diverse portfolio that spans stabilized and value-added assets, HCRE is committed to enhancing the communities in which it operates through thoughtful development and superior property management. HCRE’s strategic investments are focused both within the United States and internationally, reinforcing its position as a leader in the commercial real estate industry. For more information, visit Hoffmanncre.com.

About Hoffmann Family of Companies
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 120 global brands, and employs 16,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Aviation, Agriculture, Financial Services, Hospitality, Business & Professional Services, Industrial, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate, and Transportation.

Dallas, TX (Dec. 20, 2024) — The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) announces today that it is the fourth largest shareholder of DallasNews Corporation, now owning 286,516 shares. In compliance with regulatory requirements, the company has filed an amended Schedule 13D with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Stifel Financial Corp., based in St. Louis, MO, is serving as the strategic advisor for this investment.

DallasNews Corporation, established by Alfred H. Belo in 1885, is the parent company of The Dallas Morning News, the 14th-largest newspaper in the United States. Through its print and digital platforms, the publication reaches an active monthly audience of over 12 million people.

HF Companies remains steadfast in its commitment to local media. Recently, the company reported that it is the second largest shareholder in Lee Enterprises Inc. (Lee) and is holding a 9.94% ownership stake. HF Companies has publicly stated its intention to continue acquiring shares in both Lee and DallasNews Corporation as favorable market conditions arise.

“We are excited to deepen our investment in DallasNews Corporation and support their management team as they continue to drive new opportunities for growth and innovation,” stated David Hoffmann, Chairman of HF Companies. “Through our investment in media, we continue to publicly share our belief in the vital role trusted news sources play in our communities.”

In addition to its investments in Lee and DallasNews Corporation, HF Companies owns Hoffmann Media Group, a privately held media firm with a portfolio of 20 news-related properties across the United States.

About Hoffmann Family of Companies 
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 120 global brands, and employs 16,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Aviation, Agriculture, Financial Services, Hospitality, Business & Professional Services, Industrial, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate, and Transportation.

About Hoffmann Media Group
Hoffmann Media Group, a privately held media company based in Southwest Florida, publishes a variety of print, online, mobile, and email publications. Over the past 15 years, our writers, designers and ad builders have earned over 200 awards from the Florida Press Association, Society of Professional Journalists and Florida Newspaper Advertising and Marketing Executives Association. The Florida Press Association has recognized us as the best in the state for content, consumer experiences and advertising services. Our flagship brands, including 20 newspapers, magazines and media investments, serve over 30 markets, offering premier digital advertising services, newspapers, and magazines across Florida, California, Michigan and beyond. For more information, visit www.hoffmannmediagroup.com.

Fort Myers, FL (Dec. 13, 2024) — The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) announced today that it has continued to purchase shares of Lee Enterprises Inc. (Lee) and now owns 9.74%. HF Companies has filed an amended Schedule 13D with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as required. Stifel Financial Corp. in St. Louis, MO, is serving as strategic advisor to the company.

HF Companies has expressed its intention to become Lee’s largest shareholder. Currently, Hoffmann is the second-largest shareholder, behind Quint Digital Limited.

Lee owns the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Omaha World-Herald, and The Buffalo News, as well as other daily newspapers and 350 weekly and specialty publications that serve 72 local markets across America. By combining Lee and Hoffmann Media Group assets, HF Companies would own the second-largest newspaper group in the country.

“We have and will continue to purchase shares in the company as market conditions present themselves,” said David Hoffmann, Chairman of HF Companies, from his St. Louis residence. “We believe in newspapers, local journalism, and digital media. We have been and continue to be successful throughout the country with our media assets. I’m not going away, and we will continue to invest. We feel local journalism is a part of the fabric of America and will invest to protect it and help it prosper.”

“The management team at Lee is doing a great job and our interest in investing in Lee is to help them grow and continue to serve local markets,” said Pason Gaddis, CEO of Hoffmann Media Group.

Hoffmann Family of Companies’ ongoing investment in Lee underscores its commitment to preserving and enhancing local journalism. The company aims to leverage its media investment to support and grow local news outlets across the United States.

About Hoffmann Family of Companies 
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 110 global brands, and employs 11,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Aviation, Agriculture, Financial Services, Hospitality, Business & Professional Services, Industrial, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate, and Transportation.

About Hoffmann Media Group
Hoffmann Media Group, a privately held media company based in Southwest Florida, publishes a variety of print, online, mobile, and email publications. Over the past 15 years, our writers, designers and ad builders have earned over 200 awards from the Florida Press Association, Society of Professional Journalists and Florida Newspaper Advertising and Marketing Executives Association. The Florida Press Association has recognized us as the best in the state for content, consumer experiences and advertising services. Our flagship brands serve over 30 markets, offering premier digital advertising services, newspapers, and magazines across Florida, California, Michigan and beyond. (20 Newspapers, Magazines, and Media Investments). For more information, visit www.hoffmannmediagroup.com.

Media Contact
Suzanne Jacob
Chief Marketing Officer
[email protected]