Ontario Natural Food Co-op acquires Black River Juice Company Limited

MISSISSAUGA, ON, July 2, 2013 /CNW/ - Ontario Natural Food Co-op (ONFC), one of Ontario's largest distributors of Natural and Organic foods and products, today announced it has purchased the assets of one of Canada's leading juice brands - Black River Juice Company.

Aligned in their business values, Black River and ONFC bring to market natural, organic and local foods and products that deliver on the highest standards of quality and service. The strategic focus of both companies are dedicated to building a local food system that keeps sustainability and closely forged relationships with their farming partners and vendors at the forefront.  The purchase of the Black River assets continues to grow ONFC's own brand portfolio and distribution model building their leadership presence within the Ontario marketplace. "Black River is a venerable Canadian Company that has a heritage which is built on similar guiding principles as ONFC's. Bringing these products within the ONFC family allows us to expand our delivery of quality locally produced, natural and organic products to our members and customers" commented Randy Whitteker, General Manager ONFC.

Canadian owned and incorporated, Black River Juice Company started its humble beginning in Prince Edward County. Enterprising local farmers introduced the premium juices using their own fruit crops, and soon found their workloads were increasing as demand grew rapidly.  Preferring to concentrate on farming, they partnered with Keith Wallace and Grant Keane of Toronto to carry forward the mission of pressing and marketing their juices.  Industry leaders in specialty fruit juices for more than 30 years, Black River's experience in selecting, buying, ripening and blending fruit, connections with local growers, and exacting standards promise and deliver the highest quality and selection.

ONFC will continue to produce to the same rigorous standards, nurturing the long standing relationships with their local farming communities.  "We are very pleased that Black River will continue to make quality fruit juices in Ontario with ONFC.  It is an excellent fit and we take comfort that our brand and product line will reside within a co-operative environment that shares our beliefs."  Keith Wallace, President at Black River Juice Company Limited.

Black River products can be found across the country in National Grocery Chains as well as small and large Natural Food Retailers. Partnerships with existing Canadian Distributors will continue to grow and expand building the brand's market share.

Who is Black River Juice Company?

Black River Juice Company Limited, a certified organic producer, has been an industry leader in specialty fruit juices for more than 25 years. Black River juices are made from the finest ingredients available producing a premium line of un-clarified fruit juices and juice blends that possess the natural qualities of the original fruit.

Visit www.BlackRiverJuice.com to learn more.

About Ontario Natural Food Co-op (ONFC):

Ontario Natural Food Co-op is a co-operative headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario. ONFC has led the distribution of natural and organic food in the region since its inception in 1976. A member-owned and directed wholesaler, ONFC distributes over 4,500 grocery, refrigerated, frozen, bulk, and household items to natural and organic retailers in the eastern half of Canada. ONFC also produces and distributes a line of locally produced Natural and Organic products under the Ontario Natural Food Co-op brand. The company has established itself as the preferred supplier to small and large natural food stores, wellness clinics, daycare centres, buying clubs, and independent grocery stores. It consistently provides its members and customers with a high product fulfillment rate and unparalleled service levels in the industry.

SOURCE: Ontario Natural Food Co-op

Media Contact:

For interview opportunities, please contact John Landsborough, Sales & Marketing Manager 905-507-2021 ext. 250, [email protected], http://www.onfc.ca.