Strategic Partnership Aims to Drive Innovation and Strengthen Leadership in the Fresh Produce Industry

Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. through its vegetable division, Mann Packing, has sold its Fresh Leaf Farms operations to First Leaf Farms.

This new partnership brings together the expertise of the Costa and Nunes families, two established leaders in Salinas Valley’s produce sector, aiming to foster innovation and enhance customer offerings. The transaction aligns with Fresh Del Monte’s strategy to streamline operations, focus on core products, and divest non-essential assets.

The decision to sell Fresh Leaf Farms marks a significant step in Fresh Del Monte’s efforts to refocus its vegetable division. Mann Packing, known for innovative products such as Broccolini®, Stringless Sugar Snap Peas, and Better Leaf® lettuce, will concentrate on its primary offerings while seeking new avenues for product development.

As stated in the company’s announcement, the strategy also aims to optimize efficiency and improve profitability by strengthening relationships with customers and enhancing supply chain management.

First Leaf Farms, led by the Costa and Nunes families, will assume responsibility for Fresh Leaf Farms’ operations. Both families bring extensive experience in agriculture, particularly in leafy greens production.

The Costa family, renowned for its innovations and over 65 years of farming history in the region, will handle operations for First Leaf Farms. Meanwhile, The Nunes Company, recognized for its Foxy® and Foxy Organic® brands, will oversee sales and marketing efforts.

Mike Costa, a partner in the Costa family’s operations, emphasized the natural fit of the partnership, highlighting the longstanding relationship with the Nunes family.

“With our long history in the Salinas Valley and 40-plus-year relationship with the Nunes family, known for their marketing expertise and reputation for integrity and quality, this acquisition is a natural fit,”

He also expressed appreciation to Mann Packing and Del Monte for the opportunity, stating that the collaboration aims to leverage future opportunities for success.

This acquisition is expected to provide a seamless transition for customers. Mann Packing’s logistics network will continue to support First Leaf Farms during the Yuma season, ensuring uninterrupted service.

Additionally, the Costa family’s farms will maintain leafy greens production for Mann Packing, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between the parties. Tom Nunes V, President of The Nunes Company, underscored the importance of the partnership: “This acquisition allows us to build on that shared history, combining our strengths to drive continued growth and innovation in the leafy greens sector.”

The strategic sale of Fresh Leaf Farms reflects Fresh Del Monte’s commitment to refining its business operations. As Mann Packing focuses on future growth, operational excellence, and signature innovations, the vegetable division aims to maintain leadership in fresh produce while collaborating with key partners.

Fresh Del Monte’s Chairman and CEO, Mohammad Abu-Ghazaleh, expressed confidence in the new direction, stating, “Our strategy not only sharpens our focus on future growth and operational excellence but also ensures that Fresh Leaf Farms continues to thrive under the leadership of the Costa and Nunes families.”

Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. is a global leader in the fresh fruit and vegetable market. Known for its commitment to quality and sustainability, the company has received multiple recognitions for trustworthiness from Newsweek and was named a Humankind 100 Company for its positive impact in areas such as food access and clean water. Trading under the symbol FDP on the New York Stock Exchange, Fresh Del Monte continues to innovate and adapt in the dynamic fresh produce industry.