Total Produce bites off 50pc chunk of The Fresh Connection

Fresh produce company Total Produce has acquired a 50% equity stake in California-based The Fresh Connection, it announced on Friday.

The AIM-traded firm said The Fresh Connection, founded in 1994 and headquartered in Lafayette, is one of North America's “premier” produce export companies with 2016 sales of around $165m.

It said The Fresh Connection is engaged in the year-round distribution and export of a “wide range” of fresh fruits and vegetables to customers in more than 35 countries, serving customers from operations in four key production regions.

The company reportedly partners with a network of trusted growers throughout the US, Mexico, South America, South Africa and Australia to enable it to provide a number of varieties of fresh produce - principally citrus, apples, pears, grapes, berries, cherries, and stone fruit - to its customers.

Total Produce confirmed Hank Miller would continue as co-shareholder and CEO of the business, and Will Mehrten would continue as president.

“We are delighted to become shareholders in The Fresh Connection,” said Total Produce chairman Carl McCann.

“This transaction further broadens our US presence and provides us with strategic access to other key markets.

“We look forward to working with Hank, Will and the excellent people in The Fresh Connection as it continues to develop its very successful business expansion in future years.”

Hank Miller, CEO of The Fresh Connection, said his business was “proud” to partner with the Total Produce Group.

“This transaction will further strengthen the business we have developed and grown over many years,” Miller explained.

“We believe our partnership will create opportunities for The Fresh Connection which will benefit all stakeholders, including our growers, suppliers, employees and, of course, our customers.”