Vuna Partners acquires a 40% stake in Ferreira Fresh, enhancing its presence in the growing South African fresh produce market.

Information on the Target

Ferreira Fresh (Pty) Ltd, trading as 'Ferreira Fresh', is a family-owned business specializing in the distribution of fresh and frozen produce. Established in 2016 in Johannesburg, South Africa, it was founded in the kitchen of a hotel with the vision of becoming a leader in the fruit and vegetable market. The company's growth accelerated when Lino Ferreira, an experienced professional in the industry, took on the role of CEO a year later. Under the leadership of Lino and his son Keanu Ferreira, the company has expanded significantly, increasing its workforce fourfold and upgrading its operations from a small 65 square meter facility to a modern 2,000 square meter plant located in Sandton, Johannesburg.

Ferreira Fresh offers an extensive portfolio of over 200 products, which include cut, peeled, sliced, diced, and whole fruits, vegetables, and fresh herbs. Their commitment to quality and customer service is evident through their fleet of refrigerated vehicles, known for their reliability. The company's distribution network spans Gauteng and neighboring provinces, including Mpumalanga and the Free State, catering to clients across various sectors such as hospitality, retail, and corporate environments.

Industry Overview in South Africa

The fresh produce market in South Africa has shown resilience and growth, particularly in the wake of the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. With a heightened awareness of health and nutrition among