T.J. Harkins Inc. and Subsidiaries ("TJ Harkins" or the "Company") has announced that it has sold substantially all of its assets to a subsidiary of Bay State Milling Company.

T.J. Harkins is a leading supplier of sesame and edible seeds, sweet spices, ancient grains, specialty grain flours and grain blends. The Company's product line is focused on ingredients which contribute nutrition and flavor in the formulation of grain-based foods. The Company was founded in 1968 by Thomas J. Harkins and is headquartered in Bolingbrook, IL. The Company also has a sales office in San Francisco, CA and a distribution facility in Miami, FL.

Bay State Milling Company has provided exceptional flour and grain-based products since 1899. The Company has a strong health and wellness focus and a commitment to be a leader in grain-based foods through investments in employees, specialty flour milling and custom blending capabilities.

As TJ Harkins exclusive financial advisor on this transaction, Fort Dearborn successfully negotiated a selling price which was 3.5 times greater than an independent valuation that was completed within a few months prior to the transaction closing. Fort Dearborn navigated numerous deal issues in order to close this transaction, including the complexities of the company ESOP and various tax issues and strategies.

While the details of each engagement vary, this transaction was typical of our investment banking focus of representing privately-held, middle market companies with valuations in excess of $10 million. Please keep us in mind for proven middle market investment banking expertise, especially in "story" transactions where our operating skills and consulting excellence lend additional value. We look forward to working with you.