Dole Food Completes Purchase of JP Fruit Distributors

Food & Beverage Close-Up, Oct 18, 2006

FOOD AND BEVERAGE CLOSE-UP-18 October 2006-Dole Food Completes Purchase of JP Fruit Distributors(C)2006 - CloseUpMedia - newsdesk@closeupmedia.com

Dole Food Company has announced the completion of Dole's purchase from Jamaica Producers Group Ltd. of the 65 percent of JP Fruit Distributors (JPD) that Dole does not already own for $41,900,000 in cash. JPFD imports and sells fresh produce in the United Kingdom.

Benoit Galland, President of Dole Europe, said, "This acquisition permits Dole to strengthen its penetration of the vital market for fresh produce in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, a market that traditionally values quality. As we grow this business, Dole's tradition of top quality produce and exceptional service will complement JPFD's reputation for quality and service to its customers. We will work with our customers throughout Europe to develop the geographical synergies arising from this widening of the existing Dole network in Europe. We are pleased to welcome the JPFD team to Dole."

Dole Food Company is a producer and marketer of fresh fruit, fresh vegetables and fresh-cut flowers. Dole markets a line of packaged and frozen foods.

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