The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Unifrutti Group has further strengthened its global table grape platform by acquiring 100% of Safco – which includes Global Agro Peru and Safco Peru – from Rio King and other minority shareholders.

The deal, announced this week, enhances Unifrutti’s footprint in one of the Southern Hemisphere’s most strategic grape-producing regions.

Safco operates roughly 560 hectares of table grape farms in Peru’s Ica Valley, along with two modern packhouses. The business is a key supplier of premium table grapes to major US retailers, with a portfolio anchored in high-demand proprietary varieties such as Cotton Candy, Sweet Globe and Autumn Crisp.

For Unifrutti, a vertically integrated producer and distributor of premium fresh fruit, the acquisition solidifies its status as a leading Southern Hemisphere supplier. Once integrated, the group will control more than 4,300 hectares of table grape farms and produce approximately 15 million boxes, equivalent to about 120,000 metric tons, of grapes annually.

The move also expands the company’s ability to offer 52-week supply to global retailers. With Safco’s farms in Ica added to existing operations in Piura (Peru), Copiapó (northern Chile) and central Chile, Unifrutti will be able to serve the US market seamlessly from September through June. Its coverage for European customers is supported by complementary production from Italy and South Africa.

“This acquisition marks another step in our journey to build the world’s leading sustainable multi-fruit company with a 52-week integrated supply,” said Mohamed Elsarky, Unifrutti's CEO. “By integrating Safco’s premium varieties and capabilities, we reinforce our ability to serve leading retailers and distributors worldwide.”

The acquisition follows a year of rapid expansion for Unifrutti. In 2024, the company added Verfrut, Bomarea, and AvoAmerica Peru to its portfolio, extending its presence across key fruit categories.

Unifrutti currently operates 16,000 hectares across Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, supplying more than 300 fruit varieties to over 1,000 customers in more than 50 countries.

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions.