UK-based greenhouse vegetable grower John Baarda Ltd has reached an ‘in principle’ agreement to market its production through the UK arm of Dutch marketing organisation The Greenery.
The proposed deal is expected to allow John Baarda, one of the UK's highest profile glasshouse operators, to continue expanding its business following recent investment.
In particular, the company aims to capitalise on the recent completion of a state-of-the-art facility near Middlesbrough, in the north-east of England, in 2006.
The facility is notable for utilising surplus heat and carbon dioxide from neighbouring industry.
'This will allow us to focus on growing and the further development of the nursery at Billingham,” said managing director David Baarda. 'It is now about creating a model that would allow the asset to grow towards the original vision.'
He added: 'Entering into a partnership with a strong industry player like The Greenery is very exciting for the future of our business.'
Kevin Doran, managing director of Greenery UK Ltd, said teaming up with John Baarda represented a 'very good strategic fit' for his business.
“We are delighted to have one of Britain’s pre-eminent producers join The Greenery group of growers,” he said.
The agreement has been reached with the support of John Baarda Ltd’s bankers, HSBC, which will be providing finance and participating in the refinancing of the company, subject to final agreement, which is expected later this month.
