Other People's Money with Max Wiethe

Ex-Goya COO on the $1.4 Trillion Family Business Opportunity in Three Consumer Sectors | Andy Unanue

Other People's Money with Max Wiethe

Show Notes

Andy Unanue, Founder and Managing Partner of AUA Private Equity Partners and former COO of Goya Foods breaks down the trillion-dollar opportunity in US food, beverage, and pet wellness family businesses. Andy shares how his experience in a family-run business shaped his firm's strategy of partnering with lower-middle-market, family-run companies across those sectors and explains how AUA unlocks 15% to 30% operational efficiencies. The discussion dives into major consumer trends, including the humanization of pets, the rise of ethnic food markets, and the impact of GLP-1 drugs on snacking habits. Finally, Andy offers actionable advice on navigating generational wealth transfers, building positive workplace cultures, and transitioning family enterprises for long-term success.

Learn more about AUA Private Equity Partners: https://auaequity.com

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Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

00:51 Goya Roots to PE

02:48 Market Size Focus

04:21 Operational Playbook

07:26 Exit Paths for Families

09:34 PE Exits and Buyers

13:18 Leaving Upside for the Next Buyer

16:17 Macro Trends Tailwinds

21:22 Beverage Bets and Risk

28:29 Authenticity Wins Consumers

31:41 Marketing and Internet Shift

36:10 Deal Sourcing and Moats

39:08 Co-Manufacturing Advantage

41:14 Regional Brands and Add Ons

44:56 Manufacturing Renaissance

53:34 Wealth Transfer and Family Offices

58:58 AUA Future and Wrap Up

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