Port Washington, N.Y.-based William H. Kopke Jr. Inc. has announced the acquisition of R B Sandrini Cold Storage operations in Delano, Calif., and Safco of America operations in Visalia, Calif.
The moves mark a significant milestone in Kopke’s ongoing efforts to enhance its position in the business, with a focus on expanding its operational capabilities on the West Coast, according to a news release.
Safco of America is an importer, exporter and distributor of grapes, citrus and cherries, with a supply in excess of 2.5 million boxes of fruit per year, the release said.
With a committed and reliable grower base, Safco will complement Kopke’s efforts to enhance its product line and reach across North America, the release said.
Mike Shuklian will continue to lead Safco of America.
“I have known the Kopke family for years, and we are excited to be working together on new and existing projects,” Shuklian said in the release. “Our business is ripe for growth, and with the Kopke network, we see so much potential.”
William Kopke of William H. Kopke Jr. Inc. said in the release that he has respected Shuklian for years and looks forward to developing the business together. “Working together through the acquisition process felt natural, and I have no doubt that working with Safco will be seamless and exciting,” Kopke said in the release.
The newly acquired R B Sandrini facility will be converted into a state-of-the-art refrigerated distribution center and rebranded as KDC West (Kopke Distribution Center), according to the release.
The investment represents one of many initial steps to solidify Kopke’s presence in the region, the release said.
By transforming the infrastructure, Kopke aims to expand its footprint, increase packing flexibility, and enhance its added value product line. Moreover, Kopke will use this operation as a springboard toward its California grape and citrus expansion plans, the release said.
“We are committed to expanding our position in the domestic grape and citrus business, offering a comprehensive year-round solution to our partners,” Kopke said. The expanded facility will enable Kopke to better serve its customers with improved efficiency and product offerings.
In line with this expansion, Kopke welcomed Doug Rossi to the team in January 2024. Rossi joins industry veteran Damon Francis in managing the West Coast operation.
Rossi brings with him 16 years of experience in table grape sales management. His expertise, knowledge, and leadership are expected to propel Kopke’s strategic growth initiatives forward, according to the release.
“We are thrilled to have Doug Rossi join the Kopke family,” Kopke said. “His extensive experience in the produce business and his proven track record in table grape sales management make him the perfect addition to our team as we drive our general and West Coast expansion. His leadership will undoubtedly enhance our ability to serve our partners and achieve our growth objectives.”
Kopke’s investment in the infrastructure and best-in-class talent underscores the company’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and excellence in the fruit distribution industry, according to the release.
To learn more about Kopke’s plan for growth, visit:
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