Deal consolidates IPF’s position as a supplier of premium citrus
Iberian Premium Fruits (IPF) has acquired Valencia-based citrus and persimmon grower The Natural Hand for an undisclosed sum.
In a statement, IPF said the deal “consolidates its position as leader in the premium fruit sector in Spain and Europe”. It also significantly expands the company’s reach, especially in Asia, a market The Natural Hand has been supplying for more than a decade.
IPF now has more than 1,200ha of production across Spain and South Africa, made up principally of citrus, persimmons and other fruits. It said it expects its turnover to grow 15 per cent in 2024/25 to €200mn.
IPF was created in April 2023 through the merger of three citrus companies, Llusar, Naranjas Torres and VRos. Its aim is to “become the largest European leader in the production and distribution of premium oranges and mandarins”.
CEO, Xavi Nolla, said: “In our group we work so that the freshness, quality and unique flavour of our oranges, clementines and other fruits are our differentiating seal and a competitive advantage in the sector.”
The Natural Hand director Juan Carlos Martínez said becoming part of IPF is “the boost that the company needed to multiply its growth exponentially”.
Under its new owner, The Natural Hand will move to new facilities in Alcácer, Valencia. IPF has various facilities located in Castellón and Valencia.
