Press Release

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, December 6, 2005 - TSG Consumer Partners ("TSG"), a private equity fund focused exclusively on branded consumer businesses, was presented with the 2005 "Turnaround Deal of the Year" award at the 4th Annual M&A Advisor Awards program, held last night in New York City. The award was made in recognition of TSG's success in partnering with management in revitalizing Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation, the world's largest marketer and processor of macadamia nuts.

"We are honored to receive this award," said Charles H. "Chuck" Esserman, TSG President and CEO. "Mauna Loa illustrates our success in partnering with management to turn around a company, and our broad expertise and capabilities in the branded consumer category."

With total equity capital under management of approximately $700 million, TSG has since inception generated top tier returns across its branded consumer investment portfolio. The firm was the first significant private equity partnership to invest in several key consumer categories, including natural and organic foods, functional food and beverages, ethnic food and refrigerated entrees, and orphan brands in the personal care and household sectors.

In purchasing Mauna Loa, TSG invested in a widely recognized Hawaiian brand, but one that was nonetheless losing $10 million per year, a plight which threatened to close one of the last remaining agricultural industries on the islands. With a new executive team it installed, TSG partnered with management to eliminate unprofitable business and SKUs, expanded the product line and launched redesigned packaging, while widening distribution among major chains. The perception of macadamia nuts was also transformed from a special occasion item to a premium product for everyday consumption. Thereafter, Mauna Loa began to grow rapidly, workers retained their jobs, and profitability increased by over $20 million. The Company was sold to Hershey Foods in December 2004, permitting TSG and other shareholders to realize a profit of approximately $100 million.

About TSG Consumer Partners

Founded in 1987, TSG Consumer Partners L.P. pioneered the use of private equity in high-growth, middle market branded consumer companies, and has maintained this focus since inception, with an 18-year track record. The fund has generated top quartile returns on all realized branded consumer investments over three funds, and has developed a team of professionals with an unmatched breadth and depth of expertise. With approximately $700 million in capital under management, TSG has invested in such brands as Terra Chips, Glaceau VitaminWater, Don Miguel, Cutex, Denorex, Meguiar's, Famous Amos, MET-Rx and Mauna Loa Macadamia Nuts, among others. The firm works closely with management teams to build leading companies and strong brands.


Contact:
Steven S. Anreder
Jeffrey S. McKenzie
Anreder and Company
212-532-3232
steven.anreder@anreder.com
jeff.mckenzie@anreder.com