AGRO Merchants Group, a global leader in cold storage and logistics solutions, announced the acquisition of Cool Pak Solutions, a provider of storage and repacking services based in the Port of Long Beach, California. This transaction expands AGRO’s service capabilities on the West Coast and reinforces its industry leadership position in fresh produce repacking operations.
Established in 2013, Cool Pak operates a state-of-the-art, 175,000 square foot facility that is strategically located within the overweight corridor at the Port of Long Beach. Originally founded to support produce firms with their import/export activities in and out of Southern California, Cool Pak has developed deep expertise across a range of services including inspection, grading, repacking, reconditioning, cross-docking and fumigation.
“This transaction adds a strong West Coast, produce-focused operation to our network and perfectly complements AGRO’s existing East Coast storage/repack business based in Vineland, New Jersey,” said Dave Moore, President of AGRO Merchants North America. “Trade inflows of fresh fruits and vegetables have consistently grown over time and today represent a significant percentage of overall produce sales in the U.S. AGRO plays a vital role in this supply chain and we continue to expand our service capabilities through both internal capital investment and strategic acquisitions. At the same time, we’ve long sought a presence in Southern California, which represents a key produce import market. AGRO has closely followed Cool Pak’s progress since its founding and I’m thrilled that we were able to complete this important transaction.”
Steve Karo – co-founder of Cool Pak who will lead the business for AGRO as Managing Director – commented: “I started Cool Pak with a vision to create a first-of-its kind, full-service operation in the Port of Long Beach. I’m extremely proud of the success we’ve achieved as an organization, and I look forward to continued growth for the business as part of AGRO Merchants Group.”
For more information:
AGRO Merchants Group
Web: agromerchants.com