Mann Packing Sells Fresh Leaf Farms to First Leaf Farms: A New Partnership Between Costa and Nunes Families
Mann Packing, through its vegetable division, has announced the sale of its Fresh Leaf Farms brand and operations to First Leaf Farms, a new partnership between the Costa and Nunes families, both prominent leaders in the Salinas Valley produce industry. This transaction underscores a shared commitment to innovation, enhanced customer offerings, and strengthened leadership in the fresh produce sector.
Patrick Hughes, CEO of eGrowcery, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We have always valued our relationship with Mann Packing and Del Monte and thank them for this opportunity. We look forward to strengthening this relationship by leveraging both current and future opportunities to drive continued success.”
For Mann Packing, this sale marks a strategic shift within Fresh Del Monte’s vegetable division. Following a comprehensive review, the company is focusing on a three-pronged strategy to improve operational efficiency, elevate product offerings, and divest non-core assets, including Fresh Leaf Farms. Mann Packing will maintain its focus on core vegetable products, such as Broccolini®, Stringless Sugar Snap Peas, and Better Leaf® lettuce, while exploring innovative offerings. This streamlined approach aims to enhance long-term profitability and strengthen customer relationships.
Mohammad Abu-Ghazaleh, Fresh Del Monte’s Chairman and CEO, stated, “We are pleased with the path forward for Mann Packing. 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.”
The acquisition by First Leaf Farms enhances the leadership of the Costa and Nunes families in the leafy greens sector, leveraging their combined expertise. A seamless customer transition was prioritized, with both companies identifying strategic synergies. First Leaf Farms will utilize Mann Packing’s logistics network to ensure uninterrupted service during the Yuma season, while the Costa family will continue to produce leafy greens for Mann Packing. The companies plan to maintain a collaborative partnership, exploring further growth opportunities.
With over 65 years in farming, the Costa family is known for its innovation and premium leafy greens, a key supply source for Mann Packing. The Nunes family, now in its fourth generation, offers a diverse range of conventional and organic fresh vegetables under the Foxy® and Foxy Organic® brands.
Mike Costa, partner in the Costa family’s operations, remarked, “With our long history in the Salinas Valley and 40-plus-year relationship with the Nunes family, this acquisition is a natural fit. We look forward to leveraging both current and future opportunities to drive continued success.”
Tom Nunes V, President of The Nunes Company, added, “This acquisition allows us to build on our shared history, combining our strengths to drive continued growth and innovation in the leafy greens sector.”
This transition highlights the collective strengths of all companies involved and underscores Fresh Del Monte’s commitment to optimizing its vegetable division while enhancing business and customer value.
About Fresh Del Monte
Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. is a leading vertically integrated producer, marketer, and distributor of high-quality fresh and fresh-cut fruit and vegetables, as well as prepared food in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The company markets its products globally under the DEL MONTE® brand, symbolizing quality and reliability for over 135 years, and the MANN™ brand. Fresh Del Monte is recognized for its commitment to sustainability, earning accolades for trustworthiness and impact in various sectors. The company is traded on the NYSE under the symbol FDP.
