Staay Food Group, a Netherlands-based fruit and vegetable major, has acquired local pears grower Westende Fruitteelt. The financial details of the deal were not disclosed. This acquisition will strengthen Staay Food Group’s leading position in Dutch top fruits by taking over Westende’s 135-hectare pear production site in Fijnaart, North Brabant province. The Fijnaart site processes a variety of pears including Conference, Red Conference, Doyenne de Comice, Dazzling Gold, and Red Conference.
This strategic move will enable Staay Food Group to shorten its supply chains by cultivating more of its own products in top fruit, stone fruit, melons/pineapples, and greenhouse and leafy vegetables.
Around 25 employees work at Westende, with an additional average of 400 workers hired for seasonal harvest support. Staay Food Group, established in 1946, supplies fresh and processed fruit and vegetables to retail, wholesalers, and foodservice customers. The company operates production sites in the Netherlands for pears and leafy greens, Spain for fruits and vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, pomegranates, and cherries, and Costa Rica for pineapples and melons. Moreover, it maintains partnerships with growers and other companies for certain products in the Netherlands, Brazil, and Costa Rica.
In a previous collaboration in early 2020, Staay Food Group and fellow Dutch poultry giant Plukon Food Group joined forces to acquire local fruit and vegetable processor Fresh Care Convenience. This partnership resulted in the acquisition of 51% of the company by both groups, with Plukon gradually acquiring the remaining 49% over the following three years. The site was renamed Plukon Convenience Dronten and was directed towards processing fruits and vegetables for Plukon’s salads and ready meals. Staay Food Group continued to be associated with the production site as a supplier of unprocessed vegetables.
In conclusion, the acquisition of Westende Fruitteelt by Staay Food Group highlights the company’s commitment to enhancing its position in the food and beverage industry. This strategic move aligns with current food and drink consumer trends and solidifies Staay Food Group’s presence in the market. By expanding its portfolio and streamlining supply chains, the company is poised to capitalize on emerging industry trends and drive business growth.
