“One thing we have learned from the pandemic is that quality and steady supply don’t come for granted,” says Anthony Serafino with US based Exp. Group, who owns the company together with his father. While Exp. Group used to focus on bringing in tropical produce from South America to the US, recently the focus has shifted to becoming a more all-round, global provider of produce. “We are now focusing on commodities that allow us to control the supply chain,” said Serafino. As a result, vegetables like asparagus, carrots, onions, and specialty potatoes are now offered in addition to bananas, plantains, mangos, and papayas.
Asparagus for the European market.
For many years, Exp. Group has been partnering with growers in South America and imports their products into the US. “We have become an established player with a 300,000 sq ft. facility, close to 80 trucks, and moving 600,000 packages a week. At the same time, we feel the momentum is right to apply our secret sauce to the European market.” Just like in the US, retailers and wholesalers in Europe are also looking for steady quality and supplies. “We are going to bring the success that we have built in the Americas to Europe as we feel our experience and way of working will resonate well with clientele in Europe,” Serafino added.
A European division will be launched later this year with a focus on bringing in asparagus, tree-ripened mangos, as well as avocados via air. Exp. Group is already exporting some of its products into the Netherlands, Ireland, France, Switzerland, Italy and soon Germany. “However, having a physical presence and becoming a more established player will make a difference,” Serafino said. The company plans to open an office in the Netherlands. “Amsterdam is an important cargo hub and Rotterdam a key port to supply Europe.” From there, it is easy to penetrate the different European countries. While produce for Europe will initially be brought in by air, once established air freight may be supplemented with ocean shipments.
Fruit Logistica
Fruit Logistica Berlin will be held next week, and Serafino will be attending the event and walking the show floor to meet with (new) customers. “It feels like this will be the grand opening of our European business and the beginning of something special.”
Exp. Group team at the New York Produce Show.
For more information:
Anthony Serafino
Exp. Group LLC
Tel: (+1) 201-662-2001
anthony@expgroup.us
www.expgroup.us