Eshbal starts North America production

Core Insights - Eshbal Functional Food has partnered with Queen St Gluten Free for the production of gluten-free products aimed at the North American market, starting with gluten-free pita bread [1][2] - The partnership allows Eshbal to leverage local sourcing advantages in Canada, enhancing cost efficiency and product quality [2][3] - Eshbal has been actively expanding its presence in North America, marking this agreement as its third transaction in six months [4][5] Group 1: Partnership and Production - Eshbal has contracted Queen St Gluten Free to produce gluten-free pita bread for the North American market, with plans to add more items from its best-selling range [1] - Queen St has successfully completed trial runs, with commercial production expected to begin in the first quarter of this year, pending final packaging approvals [2] - Eshbal will supply its own flour blend while sourcing other ingredients locally in Canada, benefiting from favorable sourcing conditions [2] Group 2: Strategic Expansion - Eshbal's decision to produce in Canada is driven by the availability of gluten-free ingredients, which provides cost and quality advantages [2] - The company has expanded into North America following a reverse takeover with Hakken Capital Corp, gaining a listing on the TSX Venture Exchange [4] - Recent acquisitions include a majority stake in Dare to Be Different Foods, enhancing distribution capabilities in Walmart and over 300 stores in the northeast US [5] Group 3: Product Portfolio - Eshbal's product offerings include gluten-free bakery items made from natural ingredients like teff and chia, as well as a range of vegan, low-carb, and sugar-free products [3] - The company owns the Barili brand for pita breads, buns, and cookies, and the Caragil line for flours and cake mixes [4] - Eshbal has also entered a deal with Active Marketing Group for nationwide sales and marketing support across its product portfolio [6]