DePaolis named new CEO, positioning company for long-term growth and expansion
CHICAGO (Dec. 2, 2025) – Oberweis Dairy, the iconic Midwest brand known for its premium dairy products, is entering a new era of growth as it approaches its 100-year anniversary. The company today announced strategic leadership changes and highlighted recent milestones that underscore its momentum.
Renato DePaolis II has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Adam Kraber, who will remain with the company as Senior Vice President of Sales & Growth. DePaolis joins Oberweis from the Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) corporate team, where he played a key role in Strategic Operations and worked closely with Oberweis to lay the foundation for its next chapter.
“This is not a reset—it’s a boost,” said Geoff Hoffmann, CEO of HF Companies’ private equity arm. “I am confident in Renato’s ability to lead Oberweis into its next phase of growth and help the company realize its full potential.”
The 2024 acquisition by HF Companies marked a turning point for Oberweis, with the family office committing to revitalizing operations and investing in long-term growth. Within the first year of ownership, HF Companies invested $15 million in store upgrades and $6 million to enhance Oberweis’ North Aurora production facility.
Other recent highlights for the company include:
- July 2025: Chicago Redhot Ranch—one of the city’s most beloved late-night food stands—joined forces with Oberweis in Skokie, delighting fans of both iconic brands.
- August 2025: Oberweis opened its first new store in five years, a major milestone for the company.
- November 2025: Sharko’s BBQ partnered with Oberweis in Glen Ellyn, bringing bold, smoky flavors to complement the classic Oberweis experience.
- December 2025: Oberweis announced a partnership with The Joffrey Ballet to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Christopher Wheeldon’s The Nutcracker. To mark the occasion, Oberweis introduced a limited-edition flavor: Nutcracker Peppermint Swirl—available at scoop shops, Jewel-Osco locations, and during Lyric Opera of Chicago performances (Dec. 5–28).
DePaolis brings decades of experience leading teams through transformation and innovation, with a career spanning aerospace technology and global logistics. He has advised two U.S. presidential administrations on national security operations and earned recognition for driving measurable improvements in organizational performance.
He holds an MBA from MIT Sloan, a Master’s in Global Policy from Johns Hopkins SAIS, a JD from Boston College Law, and a BA from Tufts University. He is also a licensed attorney.
“I believe in this company, the brand, and the product,” said DePaolis. “We’re building on the momentum created by the dedicated team and evolving our strategy to accelerate growth. I’m energized by what’s ahead and honored to help lead Oberweis into its next chapter.”
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About Hoffmann Oberweis Dairy, LLC:
Hoffmann Oberweis Dairy, LLC is a heritage brand rooted in a tradition of craftsmanship, quality, and care since 1927. Renowned for its award-winning premium glass-bottled milk and small-batch ice cream, Oberweis has built a loyal following through its commitment to exceptional ingredients and uncompromising standards. Now proudly part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, Oberweis is thoughtfully expanding its reach—across ice cream shops, home delivery, and retail grocery—while staying true to its legacy. Every product reflects our promise to deliver a superior experience, whether it’s milk delivered to your doorstep or a cone enjoyed in one of our welcoming shops. Guided by a passion for hospitality and a dedication to excellence, Oberweis invites customers to slow down, savor the moment, and taste the difference that quality makes. For more information, visit www.oberweis.com or follow us on Instagram at @OberweisDairy.
About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 120 global brands and employs 17,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.
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