Atlantic Natural Foods names new CEO

The Board of Directors of Atlantic Natural Foods (ANF) has elected Kelly Krause as CEO/managing partner of ANF, effective immediately. Ms. Krause has served as chief operating officer since 2010. Atlantic Natural Foods is the leading producer of canned alternative vegetable-based protein products. The company markets Caroline's, Meatless Select and private-brand vegetarian products.

J. Douglas Hines, CEO and managing director of AFT Holdings Inc. and general partner of Atlantic Natural Foods stated, "Kelly Krause has been responsible for bringing the company's operation to its current level of excellence. For those of us who have worked with Ms. Krause for many years, we can all attest to her passion, drive and commitment to driving our plans for continued growth."

Prior to joining Atlantic Natural Foods, Ms. Krause was with Good Health Natural Products, Greensboro, N.C., and was responsible for procurement, sales and general management with a focus on new product development. From 2000 to 2009, she was vice president of trade marketing at Bumble Bee Foods where she managed several key business units including canned meat and seafood. Ms. Krause holds a BS in marketing and international business from Northeastern University. She also serves on the Southeastern Food Processors Board.  

Ms. Krause discussed her excitement with the expansion of the company's product offerings. "We introduced Caroline's recently at the Natural Products Food Expo in Anaheim," she said. "Buyers were blown away by the taste, particularly because they didn't expect to find great taste in a can. We expect significant interest from vegetarian and vegan consumers as well as others with diet preferences or restrictions who are seeking more great tasting alternatives to meat or fish. Our Caroline's Fishless Tuna, Chik'n Patty, Taco Filling and Five Bean Chili are non-GMO and free of artificial flavorings and colorings as well as preservatives. The entire product line is made with high-quality renewable plant proteins derived from soy and wheat.  We are also continuing to develop more offerings to broaden the choices even more for consumers." 

Mr. Hines also announced that Mr. Tim Carper will step down as the Managing Director of Atlantic Natural Foods and will retire. "Mr. Carper has been with company since its inception in 2008 and was instrumental in bringing the venture to the area. Over the 10 years he has been in the region he has been a strong supporter of Nash County, N.C., and the continual development of Atlantic Natural Foods in the region." Mr. Carper's career has spanned over 40 years in the food industry.

Mr. Hines continued, "I have known Tim for over thirty years and not only is he highly respected in this industry, but he has been a trusted confidant and a friend to me. Fortunately, he will continue in an advisory role and as Board member to assist Ms. Krause during the transition."