Growers Express, Salinas, Calif., acquired long-time Green Giant Fresh supplier and partner—Curran’s, Biddeford, Maine.

This announcement comes on the heels of Growers Express acquiring Misionero Vegetables in June. Both of these acquisitions will bring increased production, processing and distribution to this fresh vegetable grower/shipper, most notably with the addition of Misionero in the West Coast and Curran’s on the East Coast.

Curran’s, formerly of Saco, Maine, has been a valued supplier of premium Green Giant Fresh value-added products since 2006, and has maintained a relationship with Growers Express since 2009.

“Curran’s commitment to the Green Giant Fresh program and the success of the brand made this a desirable partnership for us as we continue to expand Growers Express,” says Jamie Strachan, chief executive officer of Growers Express.  

Curran’s recently expanded its operation into a new 55,000-square-foot facility in Biddeford in the fall of 2015. This new state-of-the-art facility allows for substantial expansion of products and capacity for continued growth.  

“The acquisition of this ideally located tried-and-true partner is strategically significant for us,” says Strachan. “From their New England location, we will be able to reach 40% of the population of the United States and Canada, as well as reduce lead times, which will better ensure product quality and shelf life upon delivery.”

“Growers’ mission has them evolving into a next generation healthful foods company,” says Bert Roberge, new director of sales for Growers Express. “And, our shared values of integrity, relationships and teamwork are a perfect fit. We are thrilled to join forces with Growers; it’s an honor to represent—and officially join—a company with such focus on quality, exceptional customer service and proven industry leadership as their East Coast division.”