Puratos UK sets up fruitful farm-to-fork future with Fourayes acquisition

Fourayes’ range of fruit fillings, industrial jams and mincemeat – all manufactured at its 100-acre orchard in Kent – bolster’s Puratos’ blossoming portfolio of locally-made fillings, produced at its Simonswood plant.

Puratos’ proprietary Taste Tomorrow research recently revealed that over a third of UK consumers now look for the inclusion of ‘power ingredients’, such as fruit. On top of that, 44% expressed their desire for products that contain locally sourced ingredients. The research also found that 66% believe food made with local ingredients is better for the environment. 

Red Tractor supplier

“We are delighted to welcome Fourayes into the Puratos family and are excited to continue its proud legacy; supporting British farming, providing farm-to-fork transparency and demonstrating exemplary ESG practices,”​ said Julia Darvill, MD of Puratos UK.

“Our relationship with Fourayes first took root back in February, when we partnered up to launch a unique range of real fruit and vegetable pieces, and in the succeeding months our connection has grown even deeper. ​

“We found Fourayes to be an ideal fit for Puratos, both being family-run, customer-focused, heritage-rich businesses with innovation, people and traceability at their core. We are committed to upholding and building on Fourayes’ reputation as a first-class farm and factory and look forward to a fruitful future.”​

The Fourayes farm is a prestigious Red Tractor supplier and is surrounded by English Bramley apple orchards, also Red Tractor suppliers of British-grown fruits. According to Puratos, its location in Kent makes it ideally placed for branching out to the European market, with potential opportunities to bring the Fourayes range to the wider Puratos Group.

Untold potential

Phil Acock, MD and third generation owner, will remain in a non-executive role at the company but will pass over ownership to Puratos on completion of the acquisition.

“As businesses, Fourayes and Puratos are aligned in their goals and they’re both resolute in their dedication to adding value for customers and innovating for good,”​ said Acock, who is also vice chair of British Apples and Pears association.

“We wholly believe that together, we are stronger, and the bringing together of these two ingredient powerhouses has untold potential.​

“I am confident that the synergies between Puratos and Fourayes will unlock further growth and value for our customers and help them to cater to the call for healthy options, transparency and integrity from increasingly conscientious consumers.”​