Fresca Group reported a strong set of results for its 150th trading year, delivering its fifth consecutive year of growth. Group sales rose 23% to £526 million (2024: £428 million), with EBITDA up 17% to £15.7 million (2024: £13.4 million).

The results highlight the continuing transformation of one of the UK’s most established fresh produce businesses, underpinned by long-term investment in technology, sustainability, and domestic production.

“These results reflect the strength of our strategy and the hard work of our people,” said Martyn Fletcher, Chief Executive Officer of Fresca Group. “We’ve built a resilient, well-balanced business that’s delivering for our customers today and investing to secure tomorrow’s supply.”

Investment Driving UK Growth

A key contributor to the year’s performance was Thanet Earth, now majority-owned by Fresca having increased its ownership of the joint venture last year. The site achieved record-breaking sales, with construction underway on a new 6.5-hectare glasshouse that will increase output by around 150 million tomatoes per year.

Elsewhere, Primafruit delivered a record sales year through its retail partnership, supported by continued automation investment at its Evesham site. The Avocado Company and Cartama Europe also both reported solid growth.

Resilience Across the Portfolio

Mack Wholesale, the original Fresca business founded in 1874, continued its modernisation journey with a new ERP system. Ship Stores benefitted from the continued recovery of global cruise travel, while Fresh Clear expanded its customs and logistics solutions to help clients navigate evolving post-Brexit border rules.

Despite an exceptionally difficult UK growing season, DGM Growers and Manor Fresh achieved robust results through technological innovation and crop optimisation. Fresca Spain successfully mitigated severe European weather disruption to maintain quality and continuity of supply.

Focused on the Future

Reflecting on the Group’s 150-year evolution from horse-drawn barrows to advanced glasshouse technology, Fresca continues to invest in cleaner fuels, HVO alternatives, and electric logistics. Its people-first culture remains central to its success.

Fletcher concludes “By combining investment in sustainability, innovation and people, we’re ensuring Fresca remains the first choice produce partner.”