Unifrutti Announces Acquisition of Verfrut; Mohamed Elsarky and Romano Vercellino Comment


Mon. January 22nd, 2024 - by Jenna Plasterer

ABU DHABI, UAE - In its latest play to expand its integrated and sustainable global multi-fruit platform, Unifrutti has announced its acquisition of 100 percent of Sociedad Exportadora Verfrut S.A., a South American fruit producer and exporter.

Mohamed Elsarky, Group Chief Executive Officer, Unifrutti
Mohamed Elsarky, Group Chief Executive Officer, Unifrutti

“Our acquisition of Verfrut is a strategic milestone, propelling Unifrutti's growth and reinforcing our commitment to excellence and innovation. This expansion not only enhances our current operations but also paves the way for future growth, as we aim to become the preeminent and most sustainably driven global multi-fruit company, setting new standards in the industry,” said Mohamed Elsarky, Group Chief Executive Officer of Unifrutti. “This transaction also resonates deeply with our shared family-owned heritage, and we are humbled and privileged to be entrusted with Verfrut's 30-year legacy, collaboratively forging a regional champion in Chile and Peru.”

Verfrut is a prominent fresh produce player with a presence in Chile and Peru, where it operates over 7,500 hectares of fully integrated farming and processing facilities, a release relayed. The supplier grows a wide array of crops, including grapes, cherries, apples, and blueberries. It is known as one of the largest exporters of grapes in Peru and has a robust commercial and distribution network in the United States, E.U., South America, and China.

Unifrutti has announced its acquisition of 100 percent of Sociedad Exportadora Verfrut S.A., a South American fruit producer and exporter
Unifrutti has announced its acquisition of 100 percent of Sociedad Exportadora Verfrut S.A., a South American fruit producer and exporter

Through this acquisition, Unifrutti will become a major fruit company in Chile, with one of the largest production centers for grapes and cherries globally, while upping its stake in the apple sector in the Southern Hemisphere. Additionally, the transaction extends the company’s reach into Peru.

“We are making an excellent decision with this transaction. Verfrut is our life,” said Romano Vercellino, Founder and President of Verfrut. “After many years of hard work together with our great team, we are confident that Unifrutti will maintain our values that have guided us since the establishment of Verfrut. We look forward to the next stage of our successful journey."

Verfrut is a prominent fresh produce player with a presence in Chile and Peru, where it operates over 7,500 hectares of fully integrated farming and processing facilities

Completion of the acquisition is subject to satisfaction of closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. Post-completion, Unifrutti will maintain Verfrut's global operations, ensuring business continuity.

AndNowUKnow will keep you updated on the latest acquisition news and more from the fresh produce industry.