Ironbridge Portfolio: NAPB Partners with Bamford Group
Deal News | Apr 04, 2025 | Ironbridge
North American Produce Buyers Limited (NAPB), a portfolio company of Ironbridge, has formed a strategic partnership with Fresh Advancements Inc., Freshline Foods Ltd., and Bamford Produce Company Limited, collectively known as the Bamford Group. This merger aims to significantly expand NAPB's product offerings and extend its reach into value-added processing and new markets. Larry Davidson, the former CEO of NAPB, expressed enthusiasm about the potential for growth and expansion through this partnership. Similarly, Steve Bamford, the CEO of the Bamford Group and the incoming CEO of the merged entity, highlighted the shared legacy of both companies in the Canadian produce industry and the opportunity for significant growth. Andrew Walton, Managing Partner at Ironbridge, emphasized the importance of continuing the Bamford Group's long-standing tradition of delivering high-quality produce and services. The collaboration is seen as a step forward in leveraging their collective expertise and reputation to unlock substantial growth across the wholesale, fresh-cut, and foodservice channels.
Sectors
- Agriculture and Food Services
Geography
- Canada – The companies involved, North American Produce Buyers Limited and the Bamford Group, operate within Canada, particularly in the regions of Ontario and Quebec.
Industry
- Agriculture and Food Services – This industry is relevant as the article discusses the partnership involving fresh produce and foodservice suppliers in the Canadian market.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| North American Produce Buyers Limited | Portfolio Company | Company | NAPB is a company specializing in the Canadian produce industry, now partnering with the Bamford Group. |
| Ironbridge | Private Equity Firm | Company | Ironbridge is a PE firm managing a portfolio that includes North American Produce Buyers Limited. |
| Bamford Group | Partner | Company | Consists of Fresh Advancements Inc., Freshline Foods Ltd., and Bamford Produce Company Limited, supplying fresh produce across various channels. |
| Larry Davidson | Former CEO of NAPB | Person | Former CEO of NAPB, commenting on the strategic benefits of the partnership. |
| Steve Bamford | CEO of the Bamford Group/Incoming CEO of the Combined Entity | Person | Current CEO of Bamford Group, who will become CEO of the newly merged businesses. |
| Andrew Walton | Managing Partner | Person | Managing Partner at Ironbridge, expressing optimism about the merger's potential. |