Home / Business and Economy / Global Egg Producer Mantiqueira Acquires Iconic Hickman's Egg Ranch in Arizona
Global Egg Producer Mantiqueira Acquires Iconic Hickman's Egg Ranch in Arizona
16 Nov
Summary
- Hickman's Family Farms acquired by Mantiqueira USA, a new company formed by Brazil's largest egg producer
- Hickman's was family-owned for over 80 years before the sale
- Hickman's faced setbacks from avian flu, leading to layoffs of hundreds of employees
On November 14, 2025, Mantiqueira USA, a newly formed company spun off from Brazil's largest egg producer Mantiqueira Brasil, has acquired Hickman's Family Farms in Arizona. The deal marks Mantiqueira USA's formal entry into the United States market, ending over 80 years of family ownership of the iconic Arizona-based egg producer.
Hickman's, founded in Glendale in 1944, had been facing significant setbacks in recent years. The company was hit hard by avian influenza, which decimated 95% of their egg-laying hen population, requiring mass euthanization. In June 2025, Hickman's announced layoffs for 85 employees, with the company's president stating the number affected would be in the "hundreds."
Despite these challenges, Mantiqueira USA, a joint venture between the Pinto Family, founders of Mantiqueira Brasil, and JBS N.V., the largest beef processor in the U.S., saw an opportunity to expand its operations into the American market. The terms of the acquisition were not disclosed, but the deal is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
Glenn Hickman, president and CEO of the Arizona egg producer, expressed confidence that the transition will bring "even greater opportunities" for Hickman's customers, employees, and partners. Scarpa Pinto, president of Mantiqueira USA, echoed this sentiment, stating the company's commitment to "honoring Hickman's legacy while driving new opportunities" for its stakeholders.
