Akron, Ohio-based Country Pure Foods, a manufacturer of juice, plant-based beverages and frozen novelty products, has announced the appointment of Tony Muscato as its CEO, succeeding Ray Lee.
Lee is retiring after more than three decades but will remain an advisor to the company.
Muscato’s career spans more than 30 years within the food industry. He began his career in marketing with the H.J. Heinz Company in 1987, rising to senior leadership positions throughout the U.S. and Europe, including group VP of North American foodservice sales and marketing and managing director of European foodservice.
Muscato has served as president and CEO of Harry’s Fresh Foods and president and CEO of Diamond Crystal Brands. Muscato has also served on boards for several food industry companies, including Ferraro Foods, Kettle Cuisine and Buzzard’s Roost Spirits.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tony as the new CEO of Country Pure Foods, where we know he will build on Ray’s legacy of creating one of the most trusted brands in America for private label juice, plant-based milk and innovative frozen novelties,” said Jonathan Pressnell, partner for Blue Point Capital Partners, the majority investor in Country Pure Foods.
“He brings a wealth of food industry knowledge to the position, as well as a history of successfully growing companies. We look forward to the contributions Tony will make as we continue to strategically grow our plant-based, better-for-you product offering, and we wish Ray a fulfilling and well-deserved retirement.”
Commenting on his new role, Muscato said, “I have big shoes to fill with Ray leaving after 30 years of incredible growth for Country Pure Foods. I’m excited to build on that legacy of success with an exceptional line of products, strong customer partnerships, by expanding best-in-class capabilities and an excellent team.”
Founded in 1995, Country Pure Foods is a supplier to retail stores and to food service settings, including restaurants, health care facilities, schools, nursing homes and other commercial settings. The company’s brands include Ardmore Farms, SideKicks, VBlends, Fun!, VitaMost and Glacier Valley.
