Hain Celestial U.K. has acquired fresh fruit and juice manufacturer Orchard House Foods Ltd to expand its European operations. 

"We are excited about the acquisition of Orchard House, which expands our presence in the on-trend fresh category with prepared fruit, drinks and desserts," Hain Celestial founder Irwin Simon says.

"Orchard House provides us with the opportunity to expand fruit produce offerings into continental Europe, as well as new product development with cold pressed juice and branded fruit product offerings in the United Kingdom.

"Additionally, we expect sales and operating efficiencies in terms of fruit procurement across our businesses around the world."

Hain Celestial UK is part of the Hain Celestial Group Inc, an organic and natural products company with operations in North America, Europe and India.

Originally founded in 1985 and owned by Wellness Foods Ltd, Orchard House operates two facilities in England supplying leading retailers, on-the-go food outlets, food service providers and manufacturers around Britain.

"Along with the acquisition comes innovative new processing technology to expand the shelf life of fresh fruit and juices," adds Simon.

Setting out its forecast for 2016, Hain Celestial states the company expects between US$60 and US$65 million in net sales and 'modest accretion' to Hain Celestial’s earnings from Orchard Foods.

The acquisition is subject to clearance from the U.K.’s Competition Markets Authority.

www.freshfruitportal.com