Agrial forms strategic partnership with Saladexpress

Canadian vegetable processing firm Saladexpress has entered a strategic partnership with French agricultural cooperative and food-processor Agrial to implement a modernisation project.

Agrial has also invested in Saladexpress’s capital as part of the initiative.

The cooperation is set to involve the modernisation of Saladexpress’s factory, which has already received HACCP certification.

Agrial Fresh Produce Division executive vice-president Bertrand Totel said: “Joining forces with a local leader will form the basis of a partnership, which will be mutually beneficial.

“We will be encouraging the expansion of a Quebec-based firm and accessing a geographical region targeted by the Agrial Horizon 2025 strategy.”

Agrial intends to leverage the partnership to expand its business into the North American region by combining its expertise with Saladexpress’ market-specific knowledge.

Agrial currently offers its products to a wide range of industries, including the dairy, fresh fruit and vegetable, beverage and meat sectors.

The company’s fresh fruit and vegetables are available under the Florette and Priméale brands, while it’s fresh purées and soups are provided under the Créaline brand.

Saladexpress CEO Sylvain Racette said: “We are now setting the milestones for our growth.

“It will require investments seeking to increase our factory productivity and help us maintain or even increase our workforce.”

Saladexpress was originally established in 1989 in Saint-Rémi.

The company is primarily a vegetable processing firm that processes salads and pre-cut vegetables.

It offers a wide range of fresh and preservative-free foods, as well as ready to cook or serve products.