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Nathan's Famous to be acquired by Smithfield Foods

Photo: Smithfield Foods

January 23, 2026

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Smithfield Foods Inc. will acquire hot-dog brand Nathan's Famous in a $450 million deal, according to a press release.

Since March 2014, Smithfield Foods has held an exclusive license from Nathan's Famous within the U.S., Canada and Sam's Clubs in Mexico for Smithfield to manufacture, distribute, market and sell Nathan's Famous branded hot dogs, sausages, corned beef and certain other ancillary products through the retail channel, and to manufacture and distribute Nathan's Famous branded hot dog and sausage products for the foodservice channel. The license is scheduled to expire in March 2032.

"The Nathan's Famous acquisition is a meaningful step in the progression of Smithfield Foods allowing us to own all of the top brands in our packaged meats portfolio and unlock new growth opportunities for our largest segment," Shane Smith, Smithfield president and CEO, said in the release. "Since entering into our licensing agreement in 2014, we have made significant investments to build and grow the Nathan's Famous brand. With our manufacturing scale, marketing strength, product innovation capabilities, and retail and foodservice channel expertise, acquiring Nathan's Famous will allow us to take the brand to new heights."

Nathan's Famous has its hot dogs in both retail and restaurant locations.

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