Rich Products Corp., Buffalo, N.Y., acquired all aspects of the Celebration Foods business, including manufacturing, research and development and the company’s direct-store-distribution (DSD) system. “The definition of a good acquisition for Rich’s is one that brings long-term growth and value through the addition of interesting products, solid operations and talented people. Celebration Foods is just such a company,” said Bill Gisel, Rich’s president and chief executive officer.

Celebration Foods manufactures and distributes frozen dessert and ice cream cakes. Rich’s will continue to sell Carvel-branded ice cream cakes in certain distribution channels under a license agreement with Carvel Corp., a subsidiary of Focus Brands Inc.

Tim Shanley, Celebration Foods’ president, has joined Rich’s as managing director, Celebration Foods. In his new role, Shanley will be responsible for the sales and marketing functions of Celebration’s DSD business, which will operate as a separate customer-facing channel within Rich’s.

“We are pleased that Tim will be joining our team and look forward to leveraging his talents and expertise in the frozen dessert category,” said Ray Burke, president of Rich’s foodservice and in-store bakery divisions.

Inline Plastics, Shelton, Conn., is increasing the manufacturing capacity at its Connecticut location. New, high-speed thermoforming equipment was installed and fully operational by late December, expanding manufacturing capacity by up to 10 million containers per month. In addition, the company will hire 18 people to run the line.

Harvest Time Bread Co., Mt. Airy, N.C., a producer of artisan breads, rolls and whole grain products, is investing $4.5 million to upgrade its Mt. Airy facility and expand production.

“This investment enhances our flexibility to meet changing customer needs while accelerating our capability to introduce unique new products,” said Luis Pereira, president and chief executive officer. “With additional automated equipment in Mt. Airy, we will continue our focus on producing the world’s best artisan and ethnic breads, sandwich rolls and custom foodservice products.”

The company will shutter production at its Woodbridge, N.J., bakery, but will continue to serve its customers in the region through a logistics partner in New Jersey.