Nortera, a Brossard, Québec, Canada-headquartered processor of frozen and canned vegetables, is introducing the Arctic Gardens brand to the foodservice sector in the United States. Production of its frozen range utilizes a proven preservation and freezing method that allows vegetables to retain their taste, color and nutritional value.
“Foodservice professionals continue to struggle with labor and supply chain issues, making frozen vegetables an innovative and inspiring option that also reduces food waste,” said Kelley Martin, vice president of foodservice sales in North America. “Getting from the field to the freezer takes approximately four hours, and by quickly locking in the fresh flavors, textures and nutritional values, Arctic Gardens becomes the reliable, go-to solution any time of year.”
The latest launch features seven on-trend products: Fusion blend, Romanesco blend, Kalebanzo blend, Riced Cauliflower, Rice Pilaf, Mirepoix and Roasting Vegetables.
More than 80% of the Arctic Gardens’ product line is processed in North America into pre-washed, pre-cut and ready to cook frozen vegetables.
About Nortera
Generating annual sales of approximately $1.15 billion, Nortera has 13 manufacturing plants in the United States and Canada. The company partners with 800 growers and employs approximately 3,000 people in North America. In addition to packing and marketing the proprietary Arctic Gardens portfolio and the Del Monte brand in Canada, Nortera produces major private labels and leading retail brands.
The company launched its new brand image last year, when Bonduelle Americas Long Life became Nortera after 65% of Bonduelle Americas Long Life’s shares were acquired by Fonds de solidarité FTQ (32.5%) and Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (32.5%) on June 30. The Bonduelle Group retained 35% of the new entity’s shares.
In commenting on: the rebranding last October, Nortera General Manager Daniel Vielfaure stated: “This new chapter ushers in a bright future for a new brand that’s built on a solid foundation. Nortera is a name that reflects the North American regions where we harvest and grow our vegetables, our connection to the land and soil where our food is grown, and a new era of forward-looking prosperity. We’re thrilled to form this partnership with two of Québec’s major financial shareholders, FTQ, CDPQ and the Bonduelle Group. The capital injection will help Nortera continue to grow for the future, and I can think of no better scenario than that.”
Bonduelle Group CEO Guillaume Debrosse added: “Both of our organizations share a common goal to create the best possible conditions for growth. We are confident Nortera will thrive thanks to Bonduelle’s solid market knowledge and expertise in the canned and frozen food business, paired with the financial backing from the new shareholders, CDPQ and FTQ.”
