Malet Azoulay UK specialises in exotics, as well as Fairtrade products including avos from South Africa

Malet Azoulay UK specialises in exotics, as well as Fairtrade products including avos from South Africa

The management of Katope’s UK operation, Malet Azoulay UK, have welcomed the announcement that the firm has been acquired by Belgian-based Univeg group.

Operating in 22 countries with a turnover of around £1.2 billion, the Univeg Group is one of the largest fresh produce distributors in the world. Katopé specialises in the production and distribution of exotic fruit and associated high value-added lines with a turnover of around £200m, and further extends Univeg’s product range.

Managing director Richard Wells said: “The combination of these two successful organisations will deliver further opportunities for our customers and business here.”

A joint statement added: "Together with the existing management of Katopé, this integration offers the Univeg group the additional advantage of being able to consolidate and expand its presence in these regions and in the additional markets of France, South Africa and the UK, where Katopé has an important position.

"This integration will not have any repercussions on the employment of the personnel in either group as both are seen as complementary in their activities."