Unifrutti to acquire Safco in Peru, expands table grape supply across key markets

UAE – Unifrutti Group has agreed to acquire 100 percent of Safco, known locally as Global Agro Peru and Safco Peru, from Rio King and minority shareholders, strengthening its table grape operations in the Southern Hemisphere.

Safco operates about 560 hectares of table grape farms and runs two modern packhouses in Ica, one of Peru’s main grape regions. The company supplies premium grapes to major retailers in the United States, with a focus on proprietary varieties that include Cotton Candy™, Sweet Globe, and Autumn Crisp.

With the transaction, Unifrutti grows its table grape footprint to more than 4,300 hectares, with annual output of about 15 million boxes, or 120,000 metric tons.

The expanded base allows the group to supply US customers from September through June using farms in Piura and Ica in Peru and Copiapó and central Chile. European buyers receive added cover through farms in Italy and South Africa.

Mohamed Elsarky, Group CEO of Unifrutti Group, said the move supports steady year round supply for retail partners. “This acquisition marks another step in our journey to build the world’s leading sustainable multi fruit company with a 52 week integrated supply. By integrating Safco’s premium varieties and capabilities, we reinforce our ability to serve leading retailers and distributors worldwide,” he said.

The companies expect to close the transaction after standard closing conditions.

Broader growth through acquisitions

The Safco deal follows a series of purchases that have widened Unifrutti’s crop mix and regional reach over the past two years.

In early 2024, the group agreed to acquire Verfrut, a grower and exporter with operations in Chile and Peru and a portfolio that includes table grapes, cherries, apples, and blueberries. The move improved supply continuity across seasons.

In March 2024, Unifrutti also acquired 100 percent of Bomarea, a blueberry producer with export channels to key markets. In the same transaction, the group took over AvoAmerica Peru, adding avocado orchards and strengthening links from farm to market.

Founded in 1948, Unifrutti Group produces and distributes fresh fruit across Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. The company manages about 16,000 hectares across varied climates and supplies more than 1,000 customers in over 50 countries.

It employs around 29,000 people and operates from headquarters in the United Arab Emirates. ADQ, the Abu Dhabi based investment and holding company, owns the group.

Rio King, the seller, brings more than 45 years of experience in Chile and two decades in Peru, with a focus on table grapes, cherries, and citrus for markets in North America, Europe, and Asia.

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