Courchesne Larose, a leading produce distributor based in Montreal, has signed a letter of intent to acquire a 50 percent interest in Dandrea Produce, a longtime grower and importer, based in Vineland, NJ.

Courchesne Larose has a history dating back to 1918 and is currently run by the family’s third and fourth generations. The company currently has more than 400 employees worldwide, encompassing import, export, distribution, packaging, wholesale and logistics for conventional and organic produce based programs. It is known extensively in Canada and the United States, as well as internationally.

Dandrea Produce, a fourth-generation family-owned company that was established in 1917, began as a local farming operation and has evolved into a major grower-distributor business with over 150 employees.

Courchesne and Dandrea share many values, according to a joint press release issued June 15. Both maintain a sterling reputation worldwide and a commitment to excellence. Each has unique, strategic alliances with growers around the world and builds meaningful relationships with their partners.

“The passion of Dandrea Produce mirrors our family’s long tradition in Canada,” Michel Routhier, vice president of Courchesne Larose, said in the press release. “Dandrea shares our vision for a vertically integrated, field-to-table farming model.”

“Our family could not be happier with the terms of the agreement offered by the Routhier family,” Dandrea President Frank Dandrea added in the press release. “The negotiations with Courchesne were seamless and exceedingly pleasant. Our synergistic strategies with them enable us to now service the entire eastern seaboard including Canada. Courchesne Larose is a tremendously respected company and their association with Dandrea Produce will enrich us globally.”

This partnership will enhance Dandrea’s capabilities to expand its procurement base; to streamline its vessel shipments; and to have better control and custody over product worldwide.

The projected annual revenues of this new group of companies will generate more than $600 million, according to the press release.

Dandrea added, “Our family’s investments nationally and internationally have always been examined by these questions: How can we better serve our customers? How can we eliminate excess costs? How can we add value to our retail partners? Courchesne Larose unequivocally helps us on our mission to achieve our joint ideals worldwide.”

Routhier added, “We have been looking long and hard for a partner who could enhance our global presence and Dandrea is that partner.”

The combined total year of existence and experience between both companies is almost 200 years.