Jupiter Group Europe has officially been formed following the finalization of the acquisition of former Netherlands-based produce marketer Cool Fresh International.

In May 2019, award-winning global grower Jupiter Group expanded its global network with the acquisition of Cool Fresh, including its logistics division Saphir BV and Spain-based commercial operation AgroMarketing Cool Fresh Espana.

The collection is now formally registered as Jupiter Group Europe B.V., existing within the Jupiter Group’s structure.

Since the expansion, Jupiter Group’s core range has grown to now include pineapples, melons, garlic, ginger, limes and avocados, which add to its portfolio of grapes, citrus, cherries, and kiwifruit.

Jupiter says its new European hub provides the perfect gateway to mainland Europe and is accustomed to flexible packing solutions to suit retailers and their differentiating consumer bases.

The new offering has strengthened Jupiter’s global reach and shortened lead times to markets.

“As expected there is a vast process to integrate two companies, we are now in a proud position to showcase the new addition to the group as part of the family and build on our solid foundations as one," said Jupiter Group CEO Mark Tweddle.

"As the Jupiter Group continues to grow, each and every part of it has its place of importance to ensure we are at all times offering excellence to our suppliers, customers and employees alike.”

Mark Tweddle and Hugo Vermeulen - Jupiter Europe BV

The team previously working as Cool Fresh International had a long history in global fresh produce sourcing and marketing in its three locations, Jupiter was pleased to add to their already diverse workforce bringing in their employee pool too.

Now as one team, the aligned businesses have reviewed all structures and have the best fit solution in place spanning both the UK headquarters and the EU hub to support the global business.  

“Integrating two companies from two different countries doesn’t come without its challenges, but both teams are wholly committed to the integration, benefiting from each other’s strengths and learning from each other’s experiences," said Jupiter EU’s procurement director Hugo Vermeulen.

"The production structure of the existing Jupiter group together with the distribution network of the new Jupiter Group EU are creating great synergies from which all stakeholders will benefit.”

With Jupiter Group EU’s assimilation into the larger family, there has also been a focus on incorporating their already notable CSR projects. The groups’ combined impressive CSR strategy will culminate in their first CSR report due to launch before the end of this calendar year.