Dec 15, 2006 8:40 AM, from staff and wire reports

Pierre Foods Inc has completed a transaction to purchase substantially all of the assets of Zartic Inc and its affiliated distribution company, Zar Tran Inc. Pierre had announced Nov 5, 2006, that it planned to acquire Zartic, which is headquartered in Rome GA.

Zartic manufactures, sells, delivers, and distributes food including packaged beef, poultry, pork, and veal products. The aggregate preliminary purchase price was $94 million plus the assumption of certain liabilities, subject to certain post-closing adjustments.

Cincinnati OH-based Pierre produces and markets various food, focusing on pre-cooked protein products and convenience sandwiches.