Having acquired fruit grower and processor company Fourayes, Puratos UK has “bolstered” its portfolio of locally made products. The acquisition is part of the company’s commitment to responsible, transparent and local sourcing.
The Puratos local and transparent fruit sourcing programme aims to embed sustainability through the entire value chain, which includes sourcing raw materials to using products by consumers. Fourayes’ product range of fruit fillings, industrial jams and mincemeat – which are manufactured at its orchard in Kent – will enhance Puratos’ fillings capabilities and expanding its offer of locally produced ingredients to customers.
“We are delighted to welcome Fourayes into the Puratos family and are excited to continue its proud legacy; supporting British farming, providing farm-to-fork transparency, and demonstrating exemplary ESG practices,” said Julia Darvill, Managing Director at Puratos UK and Ireland. “Our relationship with Fourayes first took root back in February, when we partnered up to launch a unique range of real fruit and vegetable pieces, and in the succeeding months our connection has grown even deeper.”
The Fourayes farm and factory are located by Bramley apple orchards, its location making it well placed to reaching out to the European market. Phil Acock, Managing Director at Fourayes and third generation Owner, will remain in a non-executive role at the company but will pass over ownership once the acquisition is complete.
“As businesses, Fourayes and Puratos are aligned in their goals and they’re both resolute in their dedication to adding value for customers and innovating for good. We wholly believe that together, we are stronger, and the bringing together of these two ingredient powerhouses has untold potential,” commented Mr Acock. “I am confident that the synergies between Puratos and Fourayes will unlock further growth and value for our customers and help them to cater to the call for healthy options, transparency, and integrity from increasingly conscientious consumers.”
Puratos’ Taste for Tomorrow research revealed that over a third of UK consumers look for the inclusion of ‘power ingredients’ such as fruit in their food and almost half (44%) wish to buy products containing locally sourced ingredients. 66% believe food made with local ingredients is more environmentally friendly.