Fyffes and Miles Import SA have announced a new three-year strategic partnership in France, bringing together the complementary strengths of two established fresh produce businesses to develop the banana and pineapple business in the French market.
Under the agreement, Miles Import will become Fyffes’ sole distributor in France, with both companies working together to strengthen supply and drive the commercial development of bananas and pineapples.
The partnership combines Fyffes’ international sourcing capabilities and extensive experience in the production, procurement and supply of high-quality tropical fresh produce with Miles Import’s established commercial network, customer relationships and knowledge of the French market.
For Fyffes, the agreement represents an important step in expanding its presence in France, where the company sees further opportunities to bring its fresh produce expertise, responsible sourcing approach and international supply capabilities to more customers.
Building the business together
Frank Burkhardt, Chief Commercial Officer at Fyffes, said France is an important fresh produce market with significant potential for the company.
“Success in a market requires strong local expertise, relationships and an in-depth understanding of customers, which is why we are delighted to enter this strategic partnership with Miles Import,” Burkhardt said.
“Fyffes brings more than a century of experience in fresh produce and an extensive international supply network, while Miles Import brings strong knowledge of the French market and established customer relationships. We believe those strengths are highly complementary.”
He added that the agreement is intended as a long-term partnership, with both companies aiming to develop the business over the next three years by providing French customers with quality fresh produce, reliable supply and a high level of service.
Miles Import to lead Fyffes’ banana business
Guy Lesvenan, Chairman and CEO of Miles Import SA, highlighted the evolution of the company since its foundation in 1994, when its business was initially focused on citrus and grapes. During the 2010s, Miles Import expanded into air-freighted mangoes for the French market.
Since 2020, the company has also developed the Fyffes brand across the French retail, foodservice and food processing sectors.
“Our partnership is built on a shared vision: a commitment to quality, traceability, transparency and long-term relationships,” Lesvenan said.
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He added that becoming Fyffes’ sole distributor in France marks a new milestone in the relationship between the two companies. Miles Import will now lead the development of Fyffes bananas in France, alongside its existing pineapple business.
“This milestone reflects six years of mutual trust and our shared ambition for the French market,” Lesvenan said.
The partnership reflects the companies’ commitment to building resilient, long-term relationships across the fresh produce supply chain while responding to the changing needs of French customers.
The new agreement will come into effect on 1 January 2027.
