VBM in new ownership deal

Chilean exotics and soft-fruit exporter Vital Berry Marketing (VBM) has announced a change in ownership.

Entrepreneurs Eduardo Elberg and Ignacio Del Rio have bought the 28.8 per cent of VBM that was in the hands of its founders, the Silva family.

A statement from the company said: “It is with great pride that we are able to confirm major strides by our company towards a substantially greater potential in better servicing our clients’ needs.

“In effect, two of the foremost growers and business developers have acquired control of Vital Berry: San José Farms and Algeciras, companies linked to Ignacio del Río and Eduardo Elberg.” These two companies have now increased their involvement to a total of 70 per cent of VBM.

VBM has extensive operations in both Chile and Argentina.

Algeciras managing director Andrés Solari becomes chairman of the board at VBM and del Río vice-chairman.