How GLP-1s helped motivate sale of California's Tapatío hot sauce to Texas private investment firm

VERNON, Calif. (KABC) -- Popular hot sauce brand Tapatío was purchased by Highlander Partners, a private investment firm in Texas, earlier this year. Now, the original owners say the increased popularity of GLP-1 medications helped motivate their desire to sell.

Founded in California in 1971 and with its headquarters in Vernon, Tapatío has become a top-five hot sauce brand in the United States.

The CEO of Highlander Partners says the company is excited about the new partnership.

Luis Saavedra, the son of Tapatío's founder, told the Los Angeles Times that the demand for hot sauce has taken off because many GLP-1 users are craving more flavor and spice in their dishes, and that was one of the unexpected reasons why the family was looking to sell.

Further details about the deal between the Highlander Partners and the Saavedra family were not shared, but the company's new chairman, Jeff Partridge, says they hope to capitalize on the growing demand.

"Whether it's GLP-1 or desire for proteins, Tapatío and hot sauces enhance that experience," he told the L.A. Times. "Consumers are increasingly seeking flavors."