Benelux-based fresh produce supplier De Groot International has strengthened its position in the trade with the acquisition of shares in Netherlands-based import-export group Alexport.
The news follows the signing of a declaration of intent between the two companies at the end of April.
Although the size of the shareholding has not been revealed, it is understood that De Groot has taken a majority stake in Alexport alongside the company's founder and chief executive Alexander Visser.
Since it was established in 1998, Alexport has grown to become a significant player in the Dutch fresh produce import-export business, trading in more than 40 countries across the world and employing around 50 permanent members of staff. In particular, Alexport offers De Groot a major opportunity to expand into markets to the east of Europe, including Russia.
'Through this takeover, De Groot International is in a much stronger position to fulfill the wishes of its clients,' De Groot's general director Ben de Groot told the Dutch media. 'Our position in eastern Europe has also been strengthened by this transaction and it confirms our strong position in the area of import and export of fruit and vegetables. The current successful strategy at Alexport shall proceed unchanged.'
All parties involved in the share acquisition have decided not to comment any further on the transaction.
