Hispanic cheese category giant Tropical Cheese Industries recently received a big financial boost to expand even further.

AUA Private Equity Partners, LLC and Avance Investment Management, two Hispanic-led investment firms focused on partnering with family and founder-owned businesses, has made a significant investment in Tropical Cheese Industries.

The founding Mendez family and the management team of Tropical Cheese will retain a significant minority interest in the company.

Founded in 1982 by Rafael Mendez, Tropical Cheese is a family-run premium brand for an assortment of Hispanic cheese, meat and other food products. As the market leader in the Hispanic cheese category on the East Coast, Tropical Cheese has established itself as a trusted brand among Hispanic households, driving differentiated value to its customers through its authentic flavors, superior product quality and direct-store-delivery and logistics.

“My family and I were looking for a partner that could not only support Tropical Cheese’s future growth but, importantly, preserve our strong brand and family legacy,” said Tropical Cheese’s founder, Rafael Mendez. “AUA Private Equity Partners and Avance both bring significant investing experience in food companies, family businesses and the Hispanic market, and we look forward to benefitting from their expertise in our next chapter of growth.”