King’s Hawaiian CEO Mark Taira Hungry for More Acquisitions as Bakery Empire Grows
In the heart of Torrance, California, the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air at the King’s Hawaiian factory. Mark Taira, the 67-year-old CEO and son of the bakery’s founder, takes a moment to savor the scent as he tours the bustling facility. Dressed in a blue tropical-print shirt and a white factory smock, Taira can’t resist tearing into a pack of his family’s famous rolls, releasing a puff of steam.
Taira’s love for his family’s bread is evident as he bites into the soft, sweet roll. These rolls, along with other King’s Hawaiian products, generate around 85% of the company’s $900 million in annual revenue. With over 40% gross profit margins, King’s Hawaiian has become a major player in the food industry. What sets them apart is their unique recipe, which calls for 12 key ingredients sourced exclusively from suppliers in Hawaii.
While competitors like Grupo Bimbo may have higher margins by using cheaper ingredients, Taira prioritizes quality over profit. As a family-owned business with no outside shareholders, he lives by his father’s advice to “never be greedy.” This philosophy has served him well, as King’s Hawaiian has seen exponential growth under Taira’s leadership. When he took over as CEO in 1983, the company’s revenue was just $3 million annually. Today, it is worth an estimated $2 billion.
Under the umbrella of Irresistible Food Group, the Taira family has expanded their empire beyond bread. They now sell Hawaiian-farmed tea, pickles, and even operate a Hawaiian-inspired restaurant concept. Despite their success, the Tairas remain committed to staying family-owned and have no plans to sell or take on outside investors.
King’s Hawaiian has become a household name, with their signature 12-pack of rolls being one of the top-selling items during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Taira has his sights set on expanding the brand’s presence during other holidays, such as the Super Bowl and grilling holidays like the Fourth of July and Labor Day.
The story of King’s Hawaiian is a true American success story, rooted in the dreams and determination of an immigrant family. Robert Taira, Mark’s father, started the business in Hawaii in 1950 with just a small bakery. Through hard work and innovation, the family grew the business into what it is today.
Taira’s vision for the future includes further expansion and acquisitions. Under Irresistible Food Group, they have already acquired several brands, including Grillo’s Pickles and Shaka Tea. Taira believes that with good execution, Irresistible could soon surpass $1 billion in sales.
Despite their growth, the Tairas remain committed to their core values of quality and authenticity. They refuse to compromise on their recipes or bake their rolls for anyone else, even when faced with pressure from supermarkets. Their dedication to their craft has earned them a loyal following and made King’s Hawaiian a household name.
As King’s Hawaiian continues to rise in popularity, the Tairas are focused on maintaining their strong foundation and building a legacy that will last for generations to come. With their unwavering commitment to quality and their hunger for growth, there’s no doubt that King’s Hawaiian will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the food industry.