Dole Europe Announces the Acquisition of Fafi Fresh Cuts Oy in Finland

HAMBURG, Germany, October 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

Today Dole Europe announced the acquisition of Helsinki based Fafi Fresh Cuts Oy. Fafi Fresh Cuts Oy was founded by private investors in 2010 and started operations in June 2011.

"This will add to a decade of growth in fresh cut out of our Swedish plant based on product quality and innovation. With this acquisition, Dole is further investing in this growing category" stated Johan Linden, President of Dole Europe. "The acquisition of Fafi Fresh Cuts will be the start of  new growth for Dole fresh cut products in Finland."

Linden added, "Dole has already been servicing the Finnish market with its high quality fresh cuts from its Swedish plant for a number of years. With the new production set up, the transfer of production and category expertise, Dole customers in Finland will benefit from shorter lead time, increased flexibility as well as a broader product assortment of short shelf life products." The new operation will report to Stefan Grahn, General Manager of Saba Fresh Cuts in Helsinborg.

About Dole Europe: Dole Europe is part of Dole Foods, the world's largest supplier of fresh and processed fruit and vegetables and employer of some 75,000 people globally. Dole Europe imports a wide range of fresh fruit and vegetables from both Dole Food Company's own farms and independent growers situated all over the world. Dole Europe also provides retailers with innovative solutions in terms of services and products. The company focuses on four core values: competence, responsibility, integrity and enthusiasm. Its network stretches from Scandinavia to South Africa, from Italy to Russia, and includes 1,450 employees, working at 34 locations. More information at http://www.dole.eu

Press contacts:

Dole Europe
Xavier Roussel
Tel : +49(0)40-32-90-6-0
xavier.roussel@dole.com