Nature';s Touch Expands Capabilities with Acquisition of Certain Assets of Sunrise Growers, SunOpta Inc.'s frozen fruit operations

Rhea-AI Summary

Nature's Touch acquires assets of Sunrise Growers' frozen fruit operations, strengthening its position in the frozen food market.

Positive

• Nature's Touch expands its capacity, efficiency, and product diversity through the acquisition of Sunrise Growers' frozen fruit operations.
• The acquisition aligns with Nature's Touch's vision of creating value for consumers through synergies in scale, innovation, and geographic reach.
• Nature's Touch can now provide North American consumers with an expansive network of freezing and distribution.

Negative

• None.

MONTREAL, Oct. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Nature's Touch, a leader in the frozen organic and conventional fruit industry, is thrilled to announce the successful acquisition of certain assets of Sunrise Growers, SunOpta Inc.'s frozen fruit operations. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Nature's Touch's commitment to providing high-quality, affordable, and diverse frozen food products to consumers across Canada and the United States.

Nature's Touch, founded in 2004, has established itself as a leading retail supplier of frozen organic and conventional fruits worldwide. Operating state-of-the-art freezing and packaging facilities in both Canada and the US, the company has continuously demonstrated impressive value and growth contributions in the North American frozen food category.

Sunrise Growers is a well-known participant in the private label frozen fruit sector in the United States, sharing Nature's Touch's dedication to offering premium, affordable frozen food products and promoting healthy eating habits. This acquisition strengthens Nature's Touch's mission to provide high-quality, diverse frozen food offerings, enhancing its capacity, efficiency, product diversity, and commitment to globally standardizing food safety in the frozen fruit retail category.

The United States market represents a significant growth opportunity for Nature's Touch, and the company recently invested in a new facility in Virginia to further its strategic goals. The acquisition of Sunrise Growers frozen fruit operations located in Edwardsville, Kansas and Jacona, Mexico aligns perfectly with the company's vision of creating value for consumers through synergies in scale, product diversity, innovation, geographic reach, and growth prospects.

Through this acquisition, Nature's Touch can expand its excellence in customer centricity across North America, and features many benefits to suppliers, and retailers, including:

• Continuous product quality improvement, innovation in processing techniques, increased store traffic and customer loyalty.
• Expanded distribution network for efficient pricing.
• Industry-leading fill rates and a stronger, more efficient supply chain.
• Access to premium, organic frozen food products in convenient and sustainable packaging.
• Commitment to excellence and sustainability in innovation, quality, and food safety.

Nature's Touch CEO, John Tentomas, stated: "This acquisition is more than just a business transaction—it marks a deliberate step towards a future that is more integrated, innovative, and impactful. By welcoming the Sunrise Growers' frozen fruit operations into our family, we are bolstering our unwavering commitment to offering unparalleled value to our customers and stakeholders. This acquisition puts us in the unique position of providing North American consumers with the most expansive network of freezing and distribution on the continent. Together, our combined strengths will propel us to new heights, quicker and with renewed vigor."

About Nature's Touch

Nature's Touch, founded in 2004, is a leader in the frozen organic and conventional fruit industry. With freezing and packaging facilities in Canada and the US, Nature's Touch is dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable, and diverse frozen food products to consumers worldwide. The company is committed to promoting healthy eating habits and adhering to the highest standards of food safety and quality.

About SunOpta Inc.

SunOpta (Nasdaq: STKL) (TSX: SOY) is a U.S.-based, global pioneer fueling the future of sustainable, plant-based food and beverages. Founded nearly 50 years ago, SunOpta manufactures natural, organic and specialty products sold through retail and foodservice channels. SunOpta operates as a manufacturer for leading natural and private label brands, and also proudly produces its own brands, including SOWN®, Dream®, and West Life™. For more information, visit www.sunopta.com, and LinkedIn and Twitter.

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SOURCE Nature's Touch

FAQ

What is the strategic move announced by Nature's Touch?

Nature's Touch has successfully acquired certain assets of Sunrise Growers' frozen fruit operations.

What are the benefits of the acquisition for Nature's Touch?

The acquisition allows Nature's Touch to expand its capacity, efficiency, and product diversity. It also provides access to an expanded distribution network and premium frozen food products.

What is Nature's Touch's commitment?

Nature's Touch is committed to providing high-quality, affordable, and diverse frozen food products while promoting healthy eating habits and adhering to the highest standards of food safety and quality.

Who is the CEO of Nature's Touch?

The CEO of Nature's Touch is John Tentomas.

What is SunOpta Inc.'s role in the acquisition?

SunOpta Inc. is the parent company of Sunrise Growers, whose frozen fruit operations were acquired by Nature's Touch.