Two of Australia's major berry producers, Mountain Blue and Oz Group Co-operative, have entered a strategic marketing partnership under The Berry Collective, establishing the entity as the largest supplier of blueberries in the country. As part of the agreement, Oz Group Co-operative has acquired a 50% ownership stake in The Berry Collective, joining Mountain Blue in a joint venture aimed at strengthening the Australian berry industry.
The Berry Collective will handle the marketing and sales of fruit produced by Mountain Blue, Oz Group, and additional contributing growers. The grower base collectively includes more than 200 producers across Australia. The partnership is intended to enhance product quality, ensure more consistent supply, and expand market coverage for Australian-grown berries.
Andrew Bell, Managing Director of Mountain Blue, stated that the two companies have a long history of working together. "To take this next step and market fruit together is a logical progression," he said, referring to the companies' 25-year relationship.
James Kellaway, CEO of Oz Group Co-operative, described the move as a strategic consolidation of varieties, growers, and industry expertise. "By joining The Berry Collective as an equal partner, we aim to establish a more unified presence in the market," he said.
The newly formed venture will be led by CEO Joshua McGuiness, who has over 20 years of experience in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector and nine years in fruit marketing. McGuiness stated that he looks forward to strengthening communication and service across the supply chain, supporting both growers and retail partners.
The partners view the formation of The Berry Collective as an opportunity to improve coordination within the industry and to provide more stability to growers through shared infrastructure and aligned marketing strategies.
For more information:
Melissa Gow
The Berry Collective
Tel: +61 4114 01074
Email: [email protected]
www.theberrycollective.com.au