Mountain Blue and Oz Group Co-operative, two of Australia’s leading berry producers, have announced a strategic partnership under The Berry Collective, creating the country’s largest supplier of blueberries. As part of the agreement, Oz Group has acquired a 50% ownership stake in The Berry Collective, marking a significant move to consolidate marketing efforts and boost the visibility of Australian-grown berries.
The Berry Collective will manage the marketing and sales of fruit from Mountain Blue, Oz Group, and a network of over 200 growers nationwide. This collaboration aims to combine the strengths of both companies to ensure premium product quality, more consistent supply, and a stronger presence in both domestic and international markets.
“We’ve worked with Oz Group for more than 25 years and have always valued them as a trusted partner. This partnership is a natural evolution, and we’re excited to deliver more value to our growers, retail partners, and consumers,” said Andrew Bell, Managing Director of Mountain Blue.
Strategic leadership and future goals
James Kellaway, CEO of Oz Group, highlighted that the alliance brings together high-performing varieties, skilled growers, and decades of combined industry experience. “By joining The Berry Collective as an equal, we’re unifying our market presence and shaping the future of the Australian berry sector,” he said.
The newly formed group will be led by CEO Joshua McGuiness, who brings over nine years of experience in fruit marketing and more than 20 years in the FMCG industry. Renowned for his strategic vision and strong supply chain relationships, McGuiness is set to enhance communication and service throughout the collective.
“I’m eager to begin,” said McGuiness. “With such a passionate and experienced team, I’m confident we’ll elevate our grower and retail engagement to new heights.”
“This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter,” concluded Bell. “Together, we’re committed to delivering exceptional blueberries and supporting the growers who make it all possible.”
Image and text source: theberrycollective.com.au
