Strategic Merger Enhances National Distribution and Food Safety Innovation

Fresh Express Inc., a leading provider of value-added salads and fresh produce, has finalized the acquisition of McEntire Produce Inc., a fresh-cut processor and wholesaler that has served the food service industry since 1938.

The merger significantly expands Fresh Express’s reach within the food service sector while enhancing McEntire Produce’s operational capabilities. Fresh Express President John P. Olivo and McEntire Produce President and CEO Carter McEntire confirmed the transaction, paving the way for strategic growth and innovation.

The acquisition introduces a dedicated Foodservice Division under the McEntire Produce name. This new division aims to offer a comprehensive national foodservice solution, utilizing Fresh Express’s expertise in growing, harvesting, manufacturing, and distribution.

As stated in the press release, McEntire Produce will benefit from Fresh Express’s extensive network, which now includes six plants spread across various regions of the United States.

This nationwide platform will help streamline supply chains, reduce logistical costs, and improve route-to-market efficiency, all while continuing to foster relationships with key customers.

“We are pleased to announce the acquisition of McEntire Produce by Fresh Express. This will significantly enhance our offerings and services to foodservice customers and consumers through increased investments in innovation, efficiencies, and food safety. We will undertake a seamless integration of the business’s strengths and employees,”

John P. Olivo, President of Fresh Express.

For McEntire Produce, which has operated out of Columbia, South Carolina for 85 years, the acquisition represents an opportunity to scale its operations while maintaining its commitment to quality and customer service. McEntire Produce has built a reputation for serving customers across more than 20 states along the East Coast.

Carter McEntire, who will now serve as Vice President of Foodservice under Fresh Express, expressed his enthusiasm about the future of the business. “I am excited to continue growing the business in my new capacity, reporting to John Olivo,” McEntire stated. He also extended gratitude to the company’s employees, emphasizing that their dedication has been integral to the company’s success.

Both companies share a steadfast commitment to food safety, which the integration of their technologies will further strengthen. McEntire Produce’s Simply Clean® wash system, renowned for its innovative approach to cleaning fresh produce, will be combined with Fresh Express’s advanced RFID-based traceability technology.

This merger of food safety practices aims to reinforce consumer trust and enhance product quality.

In addition to operational synergies, the collaboration is expected to reduce overall food miles and carbon emissions, aligning with Fresh Express’s sustainability goals.

By optimizing distribution channels and logistics, the companies hope to lower environmental impact while delivering products more efficiently.

North Inlet Advisors, LLC served as the exclusive financial advisor to McEntire Produce during the transaction. The strategic move highlights the ongoing trend of consolidation within the fresh produce industry as companies seek to enhance their competitive edge through expanded capabilities and innovation.