RICHMOND, VA - B&W Quality Growers has been sold to Blue Road Capital, an independent private equity firm focused on the acquisition and development of agricultural-focused businesses. Harris Williams, a global investment bank, helped advise B&W Quality Growers on its sale, guiding the grower—one of the world’s largest growers of distinctive baby leaves like watercress, arugula, and other specialty leafy greens and a portfolio company of Boyne Capital Partners—toward more growth in the retail and foodservice sectors.
“B&W has experienced tremendous growth under Boyne’s ownership, and we are proud to represent the company and Boyne on this transaction,” said Tim Alexander, a Managing Director at Harris Williams. “We look forward to seeing B&W’s bright future in the foodservice and retail channels as chefs and consumers alike continue to demand more nutritious and flavorful food and become increasingly aware of superfoods like watercress.”
According to a press release, B&W operates three processing facilities in three states and farming operations across eight states, growing, packing, and shipping specialty leafy greens to foodservice, retail, wholesale, and specialty channels year-round. The Fellsmere, Florida-based company is also dedicated to sustainable farming techniques and is GLOBAL G.A.P. certified.
“Suppliers that bring innovation to chefs and simplify operations in the kitchen are winning in today’s market. The quality that consumers expect at five-star restaurants is also making its way into the grocery store and companies like B&W are benefitting,” said Brant Cash, a Managing Director at Harris Williams. “Investor appetite in the food industry continues to be robust, and companies exhibiting steady growth over the long term and across multiple channels truly stand out.”
While no details have been disclosed at this time on what this transaction will yield for B&W and Blue Road, AndNowUKnow will continue to keep you apprised of all the latest fresh produce news.
