Marquez Brothers International, Inc. (MBI) has made a significant strategic acquisition of Hato Potero Farms, the owner of YoGusto® brand, on March 28, 2025. This move strengthens MBI’s foothold in the Hispanic food market while expanding its product portfolio with YoGusto’s popular drinkable yogurts and dairy products. The acquisition represents a calculated step to enhance MBI’s presence in the Southeastern United States, where YoGusto® has built a loyal customer base over 25 years. MBI’s expansion demonstrates the growing mainstream appeal of Hispanic food products across the American market.
The Power Player in Drinkable Yogurt
YoGusto® has established itself as a market leader in the drinkable yogurt segment over the past quarter-century. Their success stems from a diverse product range that caters specifically to multicultural consumers, including lactose-free milk, chocolate milk, sour cream, and various cheeses. The brand has gained popularity for its authentic flavors and commitment to quality, making it a household name in many Hispanic communities across the Southeast.
Based in Florida with a manufacturing plant in Clewiston and a distribution center in Miami, YoGusto® employs approximately 70 staff members who bring expertise in producing culturally relevant dairy products. This established infrastructure gives MBI an immediate operational advantage on the East Coast, complementing their existing network. The acquisition allows MBI to tap into YoGusto’s loyal customer base while leveraging their production capabilities to expand distribution channels.
The drinkable yogurt market has seen steady growth as consumers increasingly seek nutritional dairy options that offer convenience and flavor. YoGusto® has capitalized on this trend by offering products that resonate with traditional Hispanic tastes while also appealing to a broader audience looking for authentic international flavors. Their products bridge cultural preferences with mainstream appeal, positioning them perfectly for national expansion.
Strategic Benefits for Marquez Brothers International
This acquisition perfectly complements MBI’s flagship El Mexicano® brand, particularly strengthening their position in the yogurt and dairy category. By integrating YoGusto’s production facilities and distribution channels on the East Coast, MBI gains valuable geographic diversity and expanded market reach. The company now boasts enhanced capabilities to serve Hispanic consumers nationwide while introducing these flavor profiles to new demographics.
Gustavo Marquez JR, CEO of MBI, emphasized the strategic importance of this acquisition, stating: “This acquisition fits our strategy of focusing and growing in the Hispanic food categories and will allow us to continue growing our core business by strengthening our position in a rapidly growing market that is gaining space in mainstream consumption.” His statement reflects MBI’s commitment to capitalizing on cultural food trends that are increasingly crossing over into mainstream American households.
The timing of this acquisition is particularly advantageous given the rising costs facing food producers. By combining resources and distribution networks, both companies can achieve greater operational efficiencies and economies of scale. These synergies will likely result in cost savings that can be reinvested in product innovation and market expansion.
Additionally, the acquisition creates opportunities for cross-brand promotions and product development. MBI can now pair YoGusto’s drinkable yogurts with their existing product lines, creating complementary offerings for consumers interested in authentic Hispanic cuisine. The expanded product portfolio positions MBI as a one-stop shop for Hispanic food products, enhancing their appeal to both retailers and consumers.
MBI’s Expanding Hispanic Food Empire
Marquez Brothers International has established itself as a powerhouse in Hispanic foods through strategic growth over the years. With the addition of YoGusto®, MBI now manages an impressive operation that includes 7 manufacturing plants and 18 distribution centers spanning the USA and Mexico. The company employs over 1,200 people across these facilities, making it a significant employer in the food production sector.
MBI’s brand portfolio showcases their dedication to authentic Hispanic flavors, featuring well-known names like El Mexicano®, Rancho Grande®, and Casero®, now joined by YoGusto®. Each brand maintains its distinct identity while benefiting from MBI’s distribution network and market expertise. The diverse offerings range from cheeses and dairy products to prepared foods and beverages, creating a comprehensive Hispanic food ecosystem.
The company’s growth mirrors the increasing popularity of Hispanic cuisine in American households. Traditional dishes like creamy flan and custards have transcended cultural boundaries to become mainstream dessert options. MBI has successfully positioned itself to meet this growing demand by offering authentic products that deliver the genuine flavors consumers seek.
This national presence gives MBI significant advantages in an increasingly competitive market landscape. While many food companies struggle with regional limitations, MBI’s coast-to-coast distribution network enables them to respond quickly to market shifts and consumer preferences. The addition of YoGusto’s Southeastern foothold completes an important piece of their national strategy.
The Growing Hispanic Food Market Opportunity
The Hispanic food market represents one of the fastest-growing segments in the U.S. food industry. This growth is driven by both the increasing Hispanic population and the mainstream adoption of Hispanic flavors and cuisine. As American palates become more adventurous, products like YoGusto’s drinkable yogurts are finding enthusiastic consumers beyond their traditional demographic base.
Market research consistently shows that Hispanic food products are experiencing above-average growth compared to other specialty food categories. This trend reflects changing consumer preferences toward more flavorful options and authentic international tastes. MBI’s expanded portfolio positions them perfectly to capitalize on this growing interest in Hispanic flavors across all consumer segments.
The dairy category in particular presents significant opportunities, as Hispanic-style yogurts, cheeses, and milk products offer distinctive flavors that differ from standard American options. While plant-based alternatives gain popularity, there remains a strong market for authentic, traditional dairy products with cultural significance. YoGusto’s expertise in this area complements MBI’s existing strengths, creating a comprehensive dairy offering.
Additionally, the multicultural appeal of these products creates natural expansion opportunities beyond the Hispanic market. Many consumers from various backgrounds are seeking authentic international flavors, making these products appealing across different demographic groups. This crossover appeal creates multiple growth avenues for MBI as they continue to expand the distribution and visibility of their brands.
Future Growth Roadmap for YoGusto® and MBI
MBI has ambitious plans to take the YoGusto® brand nationwide, expanding well beyond its current Southeastern U.S. footprint. This expansion will likely occur gradually, with strategic market entries that build upon YoGusto’s existing reputation for quality and authenticity. The national rollout represents a significant opportunity to introduce these distinctive products to consumers across the country who may be unfamiliar with traditional Hispanic dairy options.
Product innovation will play a key role in the brand’s future growth. MBI’s research and development capabilities combined with YoGusto’s expertise in Hispanic dairy creates fertile ground for new product development. Potential innovations might include specialty regional flavors, limited-edition seasonal offerings, or fusion products that combine Hispanic traditions with other culinary influences.
The acquisition also opens doors for cross-brand synergies within MBI’s portfolio. For example, YoGusto’s drinkable yogurts could be marketed alongside El Mexicano® cheeses or paired with Casero® prepared foods for holiday promotions. These synergistic connections can help introduce consumers to multiple brands within the MBI family, increasing overall brand loyalty and purchase frequency.
Despite potential challenges facing the dairy industry, MBI’s diversified approach positions them well for sustained growth. By offering a range of products that cater to various occasions and preferences, MBI has created a resilient business model that can adapt to changing consumer tastes. Their commitment to authentic Hispanic flavors provides a clear differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.
Looking ahead, the combined company is well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing mainstream consumption of multicultural food products. As American consumers continue to explore global flavors and seek out authentic cultural experiences through food, MBI and YoGusto® stand ready to meet that demand with quality, tradition, and innovation. This acquisition represents not just a business transaction, but a significant step toward bringing authentic Hispanic flavors to tables nationwide.
For food enthusiasts interested in exploring authentic Hispanic flavors, you can browse our foodie-themed apparel that celebrates these culinary traditions. Additionally, if you’ve discovered a local dessert shop that specializes in Hispanic treats, consider submitting it to our directory to help others find these hidden gems. Have a traditional family recipe you’re proud of? Share your favorite dessert recipe with our community and help preserve these delicious cultural traditions.