SanLucar, a fruit and vegetable brand with international operations, is expanding its presence in France through the acquisition of a significant stake in the French company Buonanno. France is the third-largest European market for fruits and vegetables by volume, after Italy and Germany, with around 10 million tons, but ranks first in market value at €25 billion.
Buonanno has more than 50 years of experience in the import and export of fresh produce. The company specializes in vegetables such as eggplants, peppers, and zucchinis, and also supplies a variety of other items, including lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, and tomatoes.
According to SanLucar CEO Armin Rehberg, the new partnership will give the company a physical presence in France through Buonanno's operations in Perpignan. The move will allow SanLucar to offer its full range of products in the French market and work with local retailers, both under its brand and retailer-owned labels. In addition, Buonanno's cross-docking platform will support logistics for both French distribution and exports to other regions.
The project will be led locally by Fabien Lefebvre, who will serve as Business Development Director, France, and General Manager of Buonanno. He will be supported by the SanLucar International Markets team at company headquarters. Buonanno's current president, Phillip Arroyo, will remain in his role through a transition period until the end of the year.
Rehberg said the collaboration is expected to contribute to SanLucar's growth objectives and strengthen its market position in Europe. The Perpignan site provides logistical access to major production zones, with proximity to Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Morocco, and enables deliveries within France in under 24 hours. The facility is certified according to IFS, Ecocert, and GlobalG.A.P. standards.
For more information:
Jennifer Heer
SanLucar Fruit
Tel: + 34 96 142 40 40
Email: [email protected]
www.sanlucar.com