Iberian Premium Fruits, a prominent player in the production and distribution of premium oranges, mandarins, and other high-value-added fruits, has recently welcomed The Natural Hand into its group. The Valencian company, known for its high-quality persimmons and citrus fruits, aims to solidify its position as the leading European producer and distributor of premium fruits.
The Natural Hand, a horticultural company based in Albal, Valencia, specializes in extra-quality persimmons and retains ownership of 35% of its production. With a history of exporting to Asian countries since 2013, The Natural Hand’s expertise and market presence will enable the group to expand into new markets previously untapped.
The formation of Iberian Premium Fruits in April 2023 resulted from the merger of two industry-leading companies, Llusar and Torres, in 2021. Additionally, in June 2023, V-ROS, the largest specialist in clementines with leaves, joined the group, further enhancing its product portfolio and market reach.
The integration of The Natural Hand into the group adds over 1,200 hectares of production land in Spain and South Africa, encompassing more than 25 varieties of oranges, mandarins, persimmons, and other high value-added products. This strategic move enhances the group’s production capacity and diversifies its product offering to meet the growing demand for premium fruits.
As part of the integration, The Natural Hand will transition to new facilities in Alcácer, Valencia, spanning 14,000 square meters, effectively tripling its production capacity. This expansion brings the total facility area to 89,000 square meters, with locations in Almenara, Chilches, Vilavella, Alquerías del Niño Perdido in Castellón province, and the new site in Alcácer.
The company projects a 15% growth for the upcoming 2024/2025 season, with estimated revenues reaching 200 million euros, driven by the synergies generated from the integration of The Natural Hand. This growth trajectory underscores the group’s commitment to innovation, quality, and expanding its market presence.
In conclusion, the integration of The Natural Hand into Iberian Premium Fruits signifies a strategic move to strengthen the group’s position in the European fruit market. With a focus on premium fruits and a diverse product portfolio, the group is poised for continued growth and success in the competitive fruit industry.
*Photo courtesy of Iberian Premium Fruits
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