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Texas Investor Sid Bass Partners With Blue Bell

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BRENHAM (CBSDFW) -- Blue Bell Creameries announced on Tuesday that Texas business investor Sid Bass has become an investor and partner with the company.

"We are pleased Sid Bass has made a significant investment with our company. The additional capital will ensure the successful return of our ice cream to the market and our loyal customers," said Paul Kruse, Blue Bell CEO and President.

Bass graduated from Yale University and Stanford Graduate School of Business before joining the family business. He and his three brothers inherited a thriving oil business from their Uncle Sid Richardson.

Forbes estimates his worth at $1.66 billion.

"We are excited to be a part of the Blue Bell brand and family" said Bass. "Blue Bell is the quality leader in the ice cream industry.  We believe quality is the principle attribute that ensures the success, growth and longevity of a business."

The Brenham-based ice cream company says it will begin a trial production run at one of its four creameries later this month. State of Alabama health officials say company representatives laid out plans for the trial to start the week of July 20.

Blue Bell pledged to reassess everything about its operations — from cleaning to training -- after a listeria outbreak was traced to several plants.

The ice cream has not been available to consumers since April 20, when all products were voluntarily recalled. The company has not set a firm date for when its product will return to the shelves.

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