Key Takeaways:
- BLOOM FRESH™ acquires Inka’s Berries, integrating no-chill blueberry varieties into its portfolio.
- Inka’s Berries’ varieties are known for adaptability to diverse climates.
- The acquisition supports BLOOM FRESH™’s focus on innovative and sustainable fruit breeding.
- The move is expected to contribute to global market growth for premium blueberries.
Overview of Acquisition
BLOOM FRESH™, a global fruit breeding company, announced the acquisition of Inka’s Berries, a Peru-based blueberry breeding program. This acquisition is aimed at expanding BLOOM FRESH™’s portfolio of fruit varieties, with a focus on premium, no-chill blueberry breeds. The move aligns with BLOOM FRESH™’s strategy to develop sustainable, high-quality fruit varieties using natural breeding methods.
Inka’s Berries and Its Blueberry Varieties
Inka’s Berries is known for developing premium blueberry varieties like Abril Blue+ and Alessia Blue+. The breeding program, based in Peru, has focused on creating varieties that do not require chilling, making them adaptable to various growing conditions. These no-chill blueberries are expected to play a significant role in global food security efforts, particularly in regions with warmer climates.
The varieties are already present in South America, Europe, and Africa, with potential for further market growth. BLOOM FRESH™ aims to use its global reach to accelerate the expansion of these blueberries into new regions.
BLOOM FRESH™’s Global Strategy
BLOOM FRESH™ has a history of innovation in breeding programs for table grapes, cherries, and raisins. The acquisition of Inka’s Berries is seen as a strategic addition to its existing fruit portfolio, offering new opportunities in the blueberry sector. According to Josep Estiarte, CEO of BLOOM FRESH™, the breeding program’s ability to produce high-quality blueberries in non-traditional regions complements BLOOM FRESH™’s global growth strategy.
By adding these adaptable varieties to its offering, BLOOM FRESH™ expects to drive market growth and meet increasing consumer demand for blueberries worldwide.
Comments from Inka’s Berries Leadership
Carlos Gereda Cornejo, Founder and Chairman of Inka’s Berries, noted that the program’s no-chill varieties have transformed the blueberry industry in Peru and beyond. He stated that partnering with BLOOM FRESH™ would accelerate the program’s global impact, allowing the company to reach new markets and expand its footprint.
Focus on Innovation and Sustainability
The company’s breeding programs prioritize natural methods to create disease-resistant, climate-resilient varieties that can be grown in diverse climates.
Alvaro Muñoz, CEO of AMFRESH™ Group, BLOOM FRESH™’s majority stakeholder, emphasized the importance of sustainability in the company’s long-term goals. He noted that the integration of Inka’s Berries is part of BLOOM FRESH™’s broader mission to offer innovative solutions to global agricultural challenges.
Investor Perspective
Carl Johan Renström, Partner in EQT Future’s Advisory Team, an investor in BLOOM FRESH™, expressed optimism about the acquisition. He recognized the success of Inka’s Berries in pioneering no-chill blueberry varieties and noted that BLOOM FRESH™’s global reach would help scale these varieties for growers, retailers, and consumers worldwide.
Bloom Fresh™ Latest News
Takes Major Legal Action Against Illegal Vine Planting in Peru (2024/07/19)
BLOOM FRESH International Limited removed 110 hectares of illegally planted table grape varieties in Peru, marking the largest infringement case in the country’s history. The grower in South Peru was found guilty of infringing on BLOOM FRESH’s proprietary varieties and faced financial penalties. The company warns potential infringers and continues to monitor the marketplace to identify and address intellectual property infringements. The company employs local and international legal teams to swiftly address potential violations and protect the interests of legitimate growers worldwide.
AMFRESH GROUP Creates Bloom Fresh International (2023/08/17)
The AMFRESH Group, in partnership with EQT Future and Paine Schwartz Partners, has announced the successful acquisition of IFG (International Fruit Genetics), a global expert in table grape and cherry breeding. This landmark acquisition has led to the merger of IFG into AMFRESH’s SNFL Group, giving rise to an extraordinary global breeding entity known as BLOOM FRESH International. This new endeavor will revolutionize the landscape of fresh, healthy, and sustainable foods, ushering in a new era of innovation and excellence.
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