Former Kellogg exec named head of growing dessert brand
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Former Kellogg Company executive Carlos Canals has joined Ciao Bella as CEO.
Ciao Bella is a gelato and sorbet brand that recently added Greek frozen yogurt to its dessert lineup.
“I am thrilled to join the Ciao Bella family as the brand caps off an exciting year full of innovative new products and extensive retail expansion,” said Canals. “I look forward to continuing that success in 2013 by driving new initiatives that allow our consumers to enjoy the Ciao Bella brand in fresh and unexpected ways.”
Food industry veteran Canals joins Ciao Bella following his tenure as president of Boston-based UNREAL Brands, a candy company committed to making products free of artificial colors, flavors, corn syrup, GMOs and preservatives. Prior to that, Canals served as president and CEO of Tribe Mediterranean Foods after spending three years as president and CEO of Kashi in La Jolla, Calif. Previously, he held various positions in marketing, general management and strategic planning with the Kellogg Company.
Canals’ appointment comes as Ciao Bella closes out a successful year that saw the introduction of its Greek frozen yogurt line, Adonia by Ciao Bella. The brand also expanded its retail presence in 2012, bolstering its national availability through increased product and store counts in markets across the country.