CORAL GABLES, FL - Fresh Del Monte Produce, through its vegetable division Mann Packing, announced the sale of its Fresh Leaf Farms brand and operations to First Leaf Farms, which is a new partnership between the Costa and Nunes families. This transaction aligns with a shared commitment to drive innovation, enhance customer offerings, and strengthen leadership in the fresh produce sector.
“We are pleased with the path forward for Mann Packing. Our strategy not only sharpens our focus on future growth and operational excellence but also ensures that Fresh Leaf Farms continues to thrive under the leadership of the Costa and Nunes families,” said Mohammad Abu-Ghazaleh, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Fresh Del Monte. “As Fresh Del Monte’s vegetable division and with innovation as its driving force, Mann Packing remains committed to delivering high-quality, fresh products that meet the evolving needs of our customers and consumers.”
According to a press release, First Leaf Farms will utilize Mann Packing’s robust logistics network through the Yuma season to ensure uninterrupted service and operational efficiency, and the Costa family’s operations will continue to grow leafy greens for Mann Packing.
Looking ahead, the companies intend to maintain a collaborative partnership, exploring further opportunities for growth.
“With our long history in the Salinas Valley and 40-plus-year relationship with the Nunes family, known for their marketing expertise and reputation for integrity and quality, this acquisition is a natural fit,” says Mike Costa, Partner, Costa Family’s Operations. “We have always valued our relationship with Mann Packing and Del Monte and thank them for this opportunity. We look forward to strengthening this relationship by leveraging both current and future opportunities to drive continued success.”
The acquisition of Fresh Leaf Farms by First Leaf Farms has enhanced the Costa and Nunes families’ leadership in the leafy greens sector. A seamless customer transition was a top priority of the acquisition, with both companies identifying strategic synergies.
“For more than a generation, the Nunes and Costa families have worked side by side—the Costa family, known for its innovative varieties, superior land base, and integrity, and the Nunes family, with similar values and expertise in marketing and sales,” said Tom Nunes V, President, The Nunes Company. “This acquisition allows us to build on that shared history, combining our strengths to drive continued growth and innovation in the leafy greens sector.”
For Mann Packing, the sale of Fresh Leaf Farms represents a key step in Fresh Del Monte’s strategic direction for its vegetable division. After conducting a comprehensive review and defining a clear path forward, the company is implementing a three-pronged strategy focused on increasing operational efficiency, elevating its product offerings, and divesting non-core assets, which includes the sale of Fresh Leaf Farms.
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