Univeg is to become one of the main shareholders in Turkish cherry and fig specialist Alara.
Active in 23 countries, the Univeg Group has an annual sales turnover of €2.2 billion (£1.57bn), making it one of the world’s largest fresh produce distributors.
Univeg and Alara shareholders have agreed upon the acquisition, dependent on approval from competition authorities.
In 2006, Alara held a 22 per cent market share for cherries in Europe, and 50 per cent of Turkish cherry imports into the UK.
“Thanks to its own 225 hectares of plantations, quality products, well-known name and innovative technologies, Alara has been able to gather a lot of experience with regards to growing, packing and exporting fresh cherries and figs,” said Hein Deprez, Univeg ceo.
Kerim Taner, Alara ceo, pictured, said: “Using our strong synergies, Alara’s business will grow worldwide, and we will strengthen our leading position in the cherry and fig industry.” Taner will remain at the helm of Alara.
Univeg has also acquired Belgian importer New Fruit Company, Alara’s sales, marketing and distribution arm in Europe.
No comments yet