France’s general directorate for competition policy has given its approval for Compagnie Fruitière’s planned acquisition of Dole France and JP Fresh.

The purchase includes the two companies’ ripening and distribution facilities in 15 of the biggest cities in France and the UK.

JP Fresh and Dole France ripen and distribute 230,000 tonnes of bananas in the UK and France each year and also import and distribute a wide range of fruit and vegetables, making them major players in their respective markets.

According to Compagnie Fruitière, the acquisition has strengthened its position among the leading European players in the fruit and vegetables sector.