Unifrutti Group Strengthens European Premium Citrus Platform with Acquisition of Sicilian Farm

Unifrutti, Sicily — Unifrutti Group, a global integrated leader in premium fresh fruit production and distribution, has announced the acquisition of Fondaco Nuovo, one of Sicily’s most established citrus operations. This marks a milestone in the Group’s growth, reinforcing its strategy to expand owned production and strengthen its position in the European citrus market.

Located in the heart of Sicily’s citrus-growing region in the foothills of Mount Etna, Fondaco Nuovo spans approximately 400 hectares across two highly productive farms. It is a significant base for premium Tarocco blood oranges, which are PGI protected (‘Arancia Rossa di Sicilia’) and one of the most sought-after citrus varieties globally. 

The acquisition significantly increases Unifrutti’s presence in Sicily, more than doubling its total controlled area in Italy to approximately 670 hectares, building on the Group’s existing footprint established through the acquisition of Oranfrizer in 2020. The investment reinforces Unifrutti’s focus on Europe as a core market and building an integrated, production-led platform.

Sicily is recognized as one of the most distinctive citrus-growing regions globally, particularly famous for premium blood oranges, especially the Tarocco variety, native to Italy. The unique combination of volcanic soils and day-night temperature swings in the microclimate of Mount Etna’s snow-covered slopes create the distinctive color, flavor and aroma.

The full range at Fondaco Nouvo includes early Tarocco, notably the sought-after Ippolito and Lempso varieties, with a striking red blush and prized for their exceptional taste. Late clones, Tarocco Sant’Alfio and Meli, extend the season through May, widening the retail window with high-quality fruit. Mandarins are another key component, including the pigmented Mandared, balancing sweet and sour, and Tacle, a distinctive cross between Tarocco and clementines. Limes and finger limes, rare in Sicily, complete this diverse citrus collection.

By increasing owned production, Unifrutti aims to ensure greater consistency, quality and reliability for its customers. The acquisition strengthens Unifrutti’s dual-hemisphere supply model, linking Italy with its Southern Hemisphere operations to enable year-round citrus availability. 

It also creates a scalable platform to deepen relationships with European retailers, supporting long-term growth through a high-quality supply over an extended period. As one of the largest citrus producers in Europe, Italy is a natural anchor for this program.

Mohamed Elsarky, Chief Executive Officer of Unifrutti Group, commented: 

“This investment marks an important step in strengthening our European platform. By expanding our presence in Sicily, we are securing a premium supply at origin and reinforcing our ability to deliver consistent quality and reliability to our customers in a wider retail window. Europe sits at the heart of our dual-hemisphere model, delivering year-round supply to our customers. This investment reflects our long-term commitment to building an integrated, resilient and value-driven business.”

Mauro Benda, Chief Executive of Unifrutti Italy and CFO Unifrutti Group, added: 

“Sicily is globally recognized for premium citrus, especially blood oranges and other prized varieties. The acquisition of Fondaco Nuovo is a significant step for Unifrutti, more than doubling our owned citrus production and building on the strong foundation established with Oranfrizer in 2020. Expanding our footprint reflects our ambition to grow sustainably and with purpose.”

About Unifrutti Group
Unifrutti Group is a global multi-fruit company and a leading producer and distributor of premium fresh fruit. Operating a fully integrated platform across Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, Unifrutti manages 16,000 hectares in diverse climate zones to ensure year-round availability of over 300 fruit varieties, supplying more than 1,000 customers in over 50 countries.
Founded in 1948 by Guido de Nadai, the Group employs around 29,000 people across its key operations in Chile, Peru, Italy, South Africa, the Philippines, and Japan, with global headquarters in the United Arab Emirates. 

Since 2023, Unifrutti has expanded its footprint through the acquisitions of Bomarea, AvoAmerica Peru, Verfrut and Safco, strengthening its integrated, sustainable fruit platform and reinforcing its leadership in global fresh produce.