Martori Farms has acquired Fyffes' entire Sol Melon business, including production operations in Honduras and Guatemala and a distribution hub in Miami, Florida. The acquisition will create one of the world's largest year-round melon producers, strengthening Martori's supply capabilities across the U.S. and Canada.
Founded in 1913, Martori Farms is a family-owned company with operations in Arizona and California, supplying melons such as cantaloupe, watermelon, traditional and golden honeydew, and the Kandy Lemon Drop Melon. The addition of Sol Melons, the largest supplier of winter melons in North America, will allow Martori to offer continuous production across both hemispheres.
Fyffes said the sale will allow it to focus on its core categories of bananas and pineapples, dedicating resources to further develop these businesses.
© fyffes
Integration and market impact
The integration of Martori Farms and Sol Melons combines a vertically integrated farming and distribution network with research and breeding expertise. The company said the combined operations will enhance varietal diversity, quality standards, and reliability for retail and foodservice customers.
"Our goal has always been to deliver melons that exceed consumer expectations—melons that delight with flavour, appearance, and reliability," said Steve Martori III, CEO of Martori Farms. "The acquisition of Sol Group allows us to extend that promise across all 12 months of the year, while working with an extraordinary team of growers who share our dedication to quality and sustainability."
Fyffes' restructuring and sustainability focus
Since 2021, Fyffes has undertaken a series of operational and social initiatives across its melon business, including investments in health and nutrition programmes, environmental restoration, and improved labour practices through collective bargaining and human rights assessments.
Fyffes CEO Helge Sparsoe said the company sought a buyer aligned with its approach to worker wellbeing and sustainability. "As we searched for a buyer, our top priority was to find a company that shares our values—especially when it comes to worker wellbeing, customer service, and uncompromising quality," he said. "We are confident that under Martori's leadership, Sol Group's employees, the land, and customers will benefit from this same commitment."
Outlook for the global melon industry
The combined company's expanded footprint will include operations across the U.S., Central America, and South America. This scale is expected to provide improved consistency of year-round cantaloupe, watermelon, and mixed melon supply. The integration will also allow for continued research in melon genetics and field management, along with sustainability initiatives aimed at resource conservation and community support.
The transaction is expected to position Martori Farms for future growth in fresh produce exports while consolidating its leadership in the global melon market.
For more information:
Nicole Wurzel
Martori Farms
[email protected]
Sarah Hegarty
Fyffes
[email protected]
www.fyffes.com
