Total Produce buys 50% stake in The Fresh Connection

Total Produce has acquired a 50% interest in US-based fresh produce company, The Fresh Connection.

The Fresh Connection, which reported sales of about $165m last year, is engaged in the year-round distribution and export of a range of fresh fruits and vegetables to customers in more than 35 countries.

The company has operations in four key production regions and serves its customers from these places.

Total Produce chairman Carl McCann said: “This transaction further broadens our US presence and provides us with strategic access to other key markets.”

The Fresh Connection provides various fresh produce, including citrus, apples, pears, grapes, berries, cherries and stone fruit to its customers by partnering with a network of growers throughout the US, Mexico, South America, South Africa, and Australia.

The Fresh Connection CEO Hank Miller said: “This transaction will further strengthen the business we have developed and grown over many years.

“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.”