BARKER SELLS MAJORITY STAKE

BARKER Fruit Processors has reached agreement to sell a majority stake to family-owned French company Andros, with Michael Barker retaining a significant shareholding in the business. Andros is the world’s leader in premium jam, maker of the famous Bonne Maman brand at its home factory in Biars, France. As well as jams they produce fruit snacks, fruit juices, fruit fillings, fruit preparations for industry and frozen desserts.
Michael Barker, executive director of Barker Fruit Processors, said the sale, for an undisclosed sum, would be a great boost for the company and the local economy.
“After 45 years it was time to find a business partner to help take this business into the future, and who better than another passionate family business that can help us grow.
Andros offers the things this business needs for the next 45 years – sales people in foreign markets, new products to sell locally, technical fruit processing and engineering support, opportunities for our people and a long term investor who understands our industry."