Turners & Growers Limited (NZX: TUR) managing director Jeff Wesley has told the New Zealand Stock Exchange that the company's facilities in Christchurch have only suffered minimal damage from the recent earthquake.

"All Turners & Growers staff in the Christchurch region are uninjured but obviously in considerable shock," he said. "Our hearts go out to the people of Christchurch as they struggle to cope with these terrible events."

The company has also announced it will purchase the remaining shares it did not already own in Inglis Horticulture, with pipfruit orchards expected to be fully producing by the 2013 season.

"The orchards are world class and an important part of Group operations and this investment further demonstrates our commitment to the industry with our exclusive varieties and will enable Turners & Growers to accelerate possible expansion plans," said company secretary Doug Bygrave.

Turners & Growers has also appointed former Guiness Peat Group executive Anthony Eisen as a director.

Photo: www.turnersandgrowers.com

Source: www.freshfruitportal.com