Courchesne Larose Group, a packer, distributor and importer of fruits and vegetables, has formed a strategic partnership with The Star Group, a fresh produce distributor in western Canada.
The companies say this deal brings together complementary organizations and will strengthen the country’s fresh produce distribution network. Courchesne Larose CEO Michael Aucoin says additional announcements regarding expanded distribution of existing products and new innovation are planned.
“The global reach of the combined entity is far greater than each entity on its own,” Aucoin tells The Packer. “This allows for a more resilient supply chain and more consistent supply to our customers.”
Headquartered in Montreal, Courchesne Larose is one of Canada’s major distributors of fresh fruits and vegetables, with integrated operations that include importing, distribution, processing and transportation. The company serves customers nationwide through a diversified and vertically integrated supply chain.
Founded in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, The Star Group operates a broad fresh produce platform with facilities across Canada and the U.S. Courchesne Larose says the addition of The Star Group adds a significant operational footprint to its platform, including more than 850 employees and 13 facilities.
“The partnership expands product offerings, including value-added produce. Day-to-day operations, existing commercial relationships and service models will remain unchanged as teams collaborate closely,” says Deric Karolat, CEO of The Star Group. “Courchesne Larose’s integrated capabilities and national reach complement our platform extremely well.”
The company says that The Star Group has built a reputation for quality and reliability that supports the combined organization’s scale, stability and national reach and maintains strong relationships with its growers, suppliers and customers. Courchesne Larose says The Star Group will operate as its subsidiary and will continue to operate under its own brand name. The Courchesne Larose Group includes Bercy Foods, Krōps Imports, Marcan Packaging, Dynapro Transport and Veg-Pak Produce.
“Product quality at the consumer level will be enhanced as product inspection will be available closer to the end consumer thereby ensuring the highest-quality produce on the shelves,” Aucoin tells The Packer. “Processing capabilities will remain regional to ensure the absolute highest level of freshness for the customer and consumer.”
The companies say this partnership provides consistent coast-to-coast service and broader product offerings through a balanced mix of global and domestic sourcing.
“We believe this will open better access to national markets for growers across the country and provide better access to high-quality produce in season,” Aucoin says. “We seek to serve all retailers to help them optimize their results in the produce category. Whether large or small, we provide access to the highest-quality fruits and vegetables at competitive prices.”
Aucoin adds that this move will also help leverage the organizations’ reach to help U.S. retailers better execute in produce. The companies plan a step-by-step approach to integration.
