Produce distributor Star Group enters into strategic partnership with Courchesne Larose

Western Canadian fresh produce distributor The Star Group has entered into a strategic partnership with Montreal-based fruit and vegetable industry leader Courchesne Larose Group. This transaction, which brings together two major players in the Canadian produce sector, will strengthen the reach, scale and abilities of both parties while reaffirming their commitment to bringing Canadians fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables.

“The partnership expands product offerings, including value-added produce. Day-to-day operations, existing commercial relationships and service models will remain unchanged as teams collaborate closely,” said Star Group CEO Deric Karolat. “Courchesne Larose’s integrated capabilities and national reach complement our platform extremely well. We are excited about what we can build together by working as one team and creating new opportunities for our people and our business.”

The Saskatoon-based Star Group has built its national reputation for quality and reliability over more than 35 years of operations. In addition to the value offered by its industry knowledge and deep regional insight, Star Group is poised to significantly expand Courchesne Larose’s Western Canadian presence through its more than 850 employees spanning 13 facilities.

MLT Aikins is pleased to have acted for the Star Group majority shareholders and management team throughout this transaction. Led by Firm Chair Adam Levene, the team was further supported by mergers and acquisitions lawyers Geoff Schneider, Colby Ferbers and Skylar Ferbers, competition lawyers Josh Krane and Kyle Donnelly, taxation lawyers Desiree Katz and Marc Pelletier, commercial real estate lawyer Patrick Keating and labour and employment lawyers Shane Buchanan and Brent Matkowski 

“We’re extremely grateful for the hard work and professionalism provided by the MLT Aikins team,” said David Karwacki, one of Star Group’s founders and majority shareholders. “Their guidance was instrumental in facilitating this exciting new partnership.”

“The skill and knowledge that MLT Aikins brought to the table was a key piece in making this partnership a success,” said Deric Karolat. “We are appreciative of their expertise and tireless efforts throughout the transaction process.”

About the Star Group

Since 1989, the Star Group has brought together boutique fresh produce companies to create a team on the cutting edge of industry innovation and with an unwavering commitment to value and taste. Leveraging a worldwide network of direct growers, state of the art packing facilities and a dedicated logistics team, Star Group has gained an industry leading reputation for quality, selection and service.

Share