Spain-based fruit-and-vegetable supplier SanLucar has acquired a “controlling ownership stake” in US-based Twin River Berries.
In a statement, SanLucar said the investment will “significantly expand” its operations in North America, building on its entry into the US market three years ago.
The transaction is framed as a long-term partnership between the two businesses. It will also include Oregon Berry, a Twin River brand described as “well known” across Asia.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
SanLucar Fruit founder and owner Stephan Rötzer said: “This partnership is a milestone in our journey to bring extraordinary taste to consumers around the world.
“Twin River Berries shares our passion for quality, our commitment to responsible agriculture, and our belief that premium fruit should be available every day of the year.”
Twin River Berries, which traces its roots back to 2004, grows and markets fresh berries. It was formally formed in 2015 and scaled its operations into a year-round programme to shipping 52 weeks a year in 2018, according to its website.
The firm sources berries from Oregon, Washington, Peru, Mexico, Chile and Argentina.
According to SanLucar, the tie-up creates a “unified company” that will serve customers across North America and Asia as a “single, integrated operation”.
The company added the partnership will benefit retailers through a broader supply base and year-round availability, while offering “expanded market access” and “stronger commercial” programmes for growers.
The transaction secures SanLucar a new production footprint in Mexico via Twin River’s existing programmes. The company said the addition should support “winter and shoulder-season” supply and improve logistics as the combined business targets a 52-week availability model.
Twin River Berries president and CEO Ben Escoe said: “Joining forces with SanLucar accelerates everything we’ve been building.
“Their genetics, global reach, and brand leadership combined with our US growing platform create a powerhouse uniquely positioned to serve customers who demand the very best. This is a partnership built on shared values and a shared belief in what premium fruit should be.”
Valencia-headquartered SanLucar was founded in 1993. The company produces more than 100 fruit and vegetable varieties—alongside juices, smoothies, and olive oil—distributing its portfolio across more than 35 countries. The group generates around €1bn in annual revenue and employs about 5,000 people.
The deal follows SanLucar’s acquisition last year of a stake in French fresh produce exporter and importer Buonanno.
