The global avocado firm, which operates in the UK from Spalding, now owns Syros’s operations and brands – including the professional market brand Syros and consumer market brand Wonky – and a significant private label development enterprise developing concepts and recipes tailored to client requirements.
Wim Destoop, regional president Europe at Westfalia Fruit, said: “This acquisition strengthens our value-added business in Europe and aligns perfectly with our growth strategy.
“Syros has been a trusted partner for many years, with Westfalia supplying a high percentage of their raw materials. Their commitment to quality and sustainability mirrors our own values, making this a natural next step for both companies.”
Global expansion
According to Westfalia, the integration of Syros into the business will strengthen the avocado firm’s presence in the European market and is part of the company’s ongoing strategy to expand its global presence while maintaining its commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.
Syros chief executive Pieter Casneuf added: “For three decades, Syros has focused on ‘making food happen’ by providing flavourful, high-quality food in a sustainable way. Joining Westfalia, with whom we have worked together already for many years, will enable us to continue this mission with even greater capabilities and reach.”
Operating in 17 countries across five continents, Westfalia Fruit grows, sources, ripens, packs, processes and markets accredited avocados across the globe throughout the year. Value-added products include avocado oil, low-preservative guacamole, frozen avocado, and dried fruit.
Laser trials
In May last year, Westfalia’s products were part of a trial to use laser-etched labels on extra-large avocados in Tesco stores. Westfalia said the fruit were a perfect candidate for the new tech, due to the thickness of their outer skin.
Westfalia Fruit general manager Graham Isaac its main priorities were to reduce – and wherever possible, remove – plastic from its packaging to contribute to solving the plastic waste challenge.
“We are confident that, with a clear focus and united effort as an industry, we will be able to significantly reduce our waste, use natural resources responsibly and protect the environment and biodiversity for all our futures,” Isaac added.
Meanwhile, last month, Carlsberg gained regulatory approval for its £3.3bn takeover of UK drinks company Britvic. Originally agreed on 8 July 2024, the deal came under fire from the Competition and Markets Authority and the European Commission.
