NETHERLANDS – German retailer EDEKA has completed its acquisition of two major business units from the de Groot fresh group in Hedel, the Netherlands.

The deal includes the purchase of De Groot International and De Groot Fresh Ripening, officially passing them into EDEKA’s control. All employees of the two companies will continue in their roles as part of the transition.

The acquisition signifies a long-term lease agreement with EDEKA Einkaufskontor GmbH for the use of the former site along the A2 motorway.

This agreement will integrate the business units into the EDEKA Group’s existing Dutch operations, including Everest Fresh.

Shared goals for retail market development

The acquisition brings together the strengths of de Groot International and de Groot Fresh Ripening with Everest Fresh’s resources.

This synergy will enable consumers to access a wide variety of fruit and vegetables at competitive prices, along with excellent service.

Ben and William de Groot, the current owners of the De Groot Fresh Group, will maintain ownership of a streamlined version of the group, which includes de Groot Fresh Transport, de Groot Fruit & Vegetables, and de Groot UK.

Operating from their base in Breda, the de Groot Fresh Group will focus on providing a broad range of specialty products for wholesale, food service, and retail sectors.

Transition and future leadership

Ben de Groot expressed mixed emotions about leaving his colleagues and the Hedel site but feels positive about the acquisition.

He stated that he is confident in the shared long-term goals and trusts Andries van den Bogert, who will assume ultimate responsibility for the acquired units.

The organization will operate under the name “Everest Fresh Groenten en Fruit” moving forward, under the leadership of Van den Bogert and the existing management team.

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