In a strategic move, the Spanish agricultural cooperative Anecoop has significantly bolstered its supply chain by acquiring the esteemed fresh produce grower Marfruit
While the financial details of the acquisition remain undisclosed, this partnership aims to enhance market efficiency and expand product offerings.
Marfruit, located in La Marina de Elche, oversees approximately 2,000 hectares of production spread across Valencia, Murcia, and Castilla-La Mancha.
Anecoop has stated that integrating Marfruit into its operations will enhance its organizational framework. Furthermore, this partnership is projected to increase the company’s commercial output in fruits and vegetables by around 50,000 tonnes.
Expressing the importance of this acquisition, Anecoop president Alejandro Monzón remarked: “We continue to move forward, showcasing a quality offering that, after this new addition, grows in both product and volume; strengthening a business structure that is increasingly better prepared to face the future challenges our sector faces, with the primary objective of improving the profitability of our farmers.”
With a legacy of 49 years, Marfruit specializes in producing nearly 30,000 tonnes of various melon types, including Piel de Sapo, Amarillo, and Galia. Notably, the company has recently expanded its offerings to include Cantaloupe melons for the current season.
Moreover, Marfruit is recognized for producing over 6,000 tonnes of broccoli and approximately 5,000 tonnes of pomegranates. Within its premium pomegranate selection, varieties such as Wonderful, Bigful, and Mollar de Elche are featured, with the latter holding Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status.
In addition to these crops, Marfruit cultivates artichokes, sweet potatoes, and several squash varieties, including Butternut and Halloween types. This diverse portfolio showcases the company’s commitment to agricultural excellence.
Commenting on the acquisition, Marfruit CEO Eduardo Boix stated: “After almost five decades in business, we are taking another step forward, a key strategic leap. Joining a leading international company like Anecoop expands our business opportunities and access to new markets. It allows us to improve our efficiency, strengthen our financial position, grow, and become stronger and more competitive in the face of the demands of the global market in which we operate.”
Founded in 1975, Anecoop has established itself as one of Spain’s largest exporters of fresh fruits and vegetables. It represents 61 associated agricultural entities and also distributes a range of products, including wines, juices, preserved vegetables, flowers, and ready-to-eat items.
The cooperative currently represents over 20,000 farmers who cultivate more than 61,000 hectares across 13 Spanish provinces. In the 2023-2024 season, Anecoop marketed an impressive 740,242 tonnes of products to 74 countries, achieving a turnover of €945 million ($1.08 billion).