Montreal-based Courchesne Larose Group has partnered with Veg-Pak Produce Ltd., an Ontario-based value-added wholesaler and processor of fresh produce.
The Courchesne Larose Group said the partnership is a strategic opportunity to establish itself as a major player in Canada’s two largest markets, By launching its first physical operations in Ontario, the company said it will enhance its capacity to effectively and comprehensively serve customers in that province, as well as all major national retailers.
Veg-Pak will operate as an independent business division within the Courchesne Larose Group, collaborating where beneficial to better serve customers, according to a news release. Veg-Pak will retain its corporate name and branding, and its headquarters will remain in the Etobicoke district in Toronto.
“There is a strong strategic and cultural fit between Courchesne Larose and Veg-Pak,” said Courchesne Larose CEO Michael Aucoin. “Both are multigenerational, family-owned businesses with rich histories, entrepreneurial cultures and a shared commitment to customer service, produce quality and leveraging operational excellence to drive growth.
“We are delighted to welcome the Veg-Pak team to the Courchesne Larose family,” Aucoin added. “Both companies prioritize their employees, customers and stakeholders, recognizing them as the cornerstone of our success.”
“Veg-Pak is a wonderful addition to Courchesne Larose,” said Alain Routhier, president for Courchesne Larose Ltd. “Our success is built on the strength of our team. Courchesne Larose Group is essentially an extended family where everyone contributes. This acquisition is a testament to our commitment to extending that family and continuing our legacy of excellence.”
Leadership at Veg-Pak will remain unchanged, the release said, with Rick Carnevale and Dan Carnevale continuing in their roles, ensuring continuity and stability in Veg-Pak’s operations.
“We are excited about our new partnership that will enable both companies to enhance customer service by leveraging each other’s best practices,” Rick Carnevale said. “Moreover, we will be able to sell one another’s products and services across wider geographies, thereby driving growth in both of our markets.”
“This is a great opportunity to develop a strong relationship with the Courchesne Larose team,” said Dan Carnevale. “We are excited about the positive impact this combination will bring to our employees, customers and suppliers.”
The release noted this marks Courchesne Larose’s first major acquisition since a substantial investment in its share capital from Sagard Private Equity Canada along with equity and debt participation from Fondaction, Roynat Equity Partners, Roynat Capital and Fonds de solidarité FTQ.
