Fresh Express has acquired fellow US business McEntire Produce, a supplier of fruit and vegetables to the foodservice channel.
Salinas, California-based Fresh Express serves the retail sector with branded bagged salads and bowls, fresh produce meal kits and fruit but has also just ventured into the out-of-home channel.
Described as strategic, Fresh Express said the transaction will enable the business to “offer a national foodservice solution” backed by its capabilities in growing, harvesting and distribution.
Its foodservice business will now operate under the McEntire Produce name, providing delivery across the US.
John Olivo, the president of Fresh Express, said in a statement: “We are pleased to announce the acquisition of McEntire Produce by Fresh Express.
“This will significantly enhance our offerings and services to foodservice customers and consumers through increased investments in innovation, efficiencies, and food safety, and we will undertake a seamless integration of the business’ strengths and employees.”
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Financial terms of the deal for McEntire Produce, which is headed up by president and CEO Carter McEntire, were not disclosed.
Based in Columbia, South Carolina, McEntire Produce has been supplying out-of-home customers with fruit and veg since 1938. The tie-up with Fresh Express will create opportunities for growth and expansion, it said.
“McEntire Produce will benefit from Fresh Express’s national platform, now with six plants across all regions of the country, access to an extensive grower network and advanced supply chain capabilities,” according to the statement.
“The shared goal is to continue to build upon the long-standing and highly treasured key customer relationships, enhance Fresh Express’s commitment to reducing total food miles and carbon emissions, while lowering route-to-market costs for McEntire Produce products.”
McEntire Produce operates its trademark Simply Cleanwash system, which will complement Fresh Express’s radio frequency identification-based food traceability technology to offer “elevated” food safety.
Mr McEntire said his business currently serves 20 states across the US East Coast using its own fleet of trucks. He will now become vice president of the combined foodservice unit.
“I am excited to continue growing the business in my new capacity,” he said. “We would like to especially extend our deepest appreciation to our dedicated employees for their valuable contribution over the years, which are the foundation on which we all have built this highly respected business.”
