Dole Food Company has underlined its commitment to developing its fresh berry business with the acquisition of Florida-based SunnyRidge Farm, one of the leading fresh blueberry companies in the US and a major supplier of other products including blackberries, strawberries and raspberries.
David DeLorenzo, Dole's president and chief executive officer, stated: 'We are very pleased with our acquisition of SunnyRidge Farm and welcome their management team, employees and growers into the Dole family.
'Their premium blueberry and blackberry operations are an excellent strategic complement to our existing fresh and frozen berry operations, both of which have previously focused on strawberries.
DeLorenzo said blueberries and blackberries were among the fastest-growing items in the fresh produce category and also amongst the most nutritious fruits.
'The SunnyRidge acquisition lets us advance our commitment to providing the consumer with an ever growing array of healthful, nutritious fruits and vegetables,' he added.
Keith Mixon, president of SunnyRidge Farm, commented: 'We at SunnyRidge Farm, including the Mixon family, are proud and delighted to be joining one of the world’s great food companies.
'We share Dole's passion for improving consumer health and nutrition, and look forward to building the business further, within the Dole family of companies.'
SunnyRidge markets a year-round fresh berry programme, sourcing from within the US as well as from Canada, Mexico, Chile and Argentina.
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