Westfalia to acquire German fruit supplier Hausladen

Avocado specialist Westfalia Fruit has finalised a deal to acquire a controlling interest in German fruit supplier Hausladen Fruchthandel.

The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed by either company.

Headquartered in Munich, Hausladen offers exotics such as avocado, mango, papaya, and pomegranate, as well as southern European produce.

Hausladen is also active in neighbouring markets such as Austria and Slovenia.

The acquisition is in line with Westfalia’s strategy to position itself as a key player in the global avocado market.

Westfalia Fruit CEO Alk Brand said: “Germany is the third-largest retail avocado market in Europe, which has strong potential for further growth.

“Our presence in this country is key to penetrating the market, supplying key customers and solidifying our leading EU presence. It also provides an important platform for our key growers globally.

“We are excited to welcome Hausladen to our global family and recognise the considerable experience and standing of such a successful and respected operation.”

As part of the agreement, Hausladen officials, including Andreas and Christoph Buchner, will continue their association with the business, with Christoph continuing as CEO of the German entity.

Christoph said: “Westfalia’s culture is a good fit for us, particularly with their focus on putting ‘family first’. As a leading exotics importer, ripener, packer and distributor in Germany, we have developed a strong base of blue-chip retail customers and have enjoyed strong historic growth.

“This deal provides us with further growth opportunities to become the market leader in Germany and other targeted territories and gives us access to an established and integrated supply chain with the capacity to expand.”

The deal is subject to a merger control approval agreement.