NEW YORK, Dec 10 (Reuters) - The investment firm that

owns Stampede Culinary Partners is exploring a sale of the meat

products provider that could value the company at nearly $1

billion, including debt, according to people familiar with the

matter.

Wynnchurch Capital has tapped investment bankers at Bank of

America ( BAC ) and North Point to run a sale process, which

could be launched early next year and attract interest from

other investment firms, the sources said.

Bridgeview, Illinois-based Stampede generates close to $100

million of annual earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation

and amortization, the sources said.

Bank of America ( BAC ) declined to comment. Stampede, Wynnchurch

and North Point did not respond to requests for comment.

While high inflation has driven up food prices in the U.S.

and forced consumers to cut back on discretionary spending,

demand for meat and high-protein food has remained robust as

health-conscious shoppers are shifting towards more protein-rich

diets.

Stampede packages and distributes beef, chicken, and other

proteins to restaurants, retailers, and grocery chains. It also

offers sous vide meals, plant-based foods, pet food, and other

food products.

Wynnchurch, which is also based in Illinois and invests in

mid-sized companies, acquired Stampede in 2017. It manages $9.2

billion of assets, according to its website.