Agrovision Expands Chilean Operations with ZurGroup Acquisition

Deal News | Dec 09, 2024 | Ag News

Agrovision Expands Chilean Operations with ZurGroup Acquisition

Agrovision, a superfruit specialist firm based in Los Angeles, has acquired the Chilean grower and exporter ZurGroup and has launched Agrovision Chile to enhance its cherry production. The acquisition is part of Agrovision's strategy to establish a 52-week cherry production plan and intends to plant up to 500 hectares of proprietary cherry varieties in Chile. The move situates Agrovision in one of the world's leading cherry-producing regions, leveraging Chile's ideal conditions for cultivating premium cherries alongside their existing multi-national operations. In August, Agrovision raised $100 million for its expansion plans and secured a $400 million credit facility from Rabobank and Banco Santander to enter new markets and improve technological innovations. The acquisition will give Agrovision access to ZurGroup's infrastructure, including packing and processing facilities and additional land for cherry cultivation, while enhancing its blueberry production. The new venture will integrate regenerative agriculture practices, focusing on soil health, water conservation, and biodiversity, aligning with Agrovision’s sustainability strategy. This marks a significant step in Agrovision’s plan to connect South America-grown superfruits with markets, particularly in demand-heavy China.

Sectors

  • Agriculture
  • Fruit and Vegetables
  • Technology
  • Banking and Finance

Geography

  • United States – Agrovision is based in Los Angeles, highlighting its US operations and expansion strategy.
  • Chile – The focal point of the acquisition, Chile serves as the new base of operations for Agrovision's cherry cultivation.

Industry

  • Agriculture – The article focuses on Agrovision’s agricultural expansion with the acquisition of ZurGroup to strengthen its cherry production capabilities.
  • Fruit and Vegetables – Agrovision's business model revolves around the production and distribution of superfruits including cherries and blueberries.
  • Technology – The incorporation of proprietary technologies such as AI, advanced pollination, and genetics in the company's operations.
  • Banking and Finance – The financial support from Rabobank and Banco Santander underpins Agrovision's expansion plans.

Financials

  • $100 million – Funds raised by Agrovision for its expansion plans
  • $400 million – Credit facility secured from Rabobank and Banco Santander to support expansion and technological innovations.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
AgrovisionBidding CompanyCompanyLos Angeles-based superfruit specialist focused on growing, distributing, and marketing fruits.
ZurGroupTarget companyCompanyChilean grower and exporter specializing in cherry production.
RabobankCreditorCompanyBank providing part of the $400 million credit facility to Agrovision.
Banco SantanderCreditorCompanyBank providing part of the $400 million credit facility to Agrovision.
Juan Pablo SpoererDirector at AgrovisionPersonDirector overseeing Agrovision’s strategic operations in Chile.