Origin Enterprises acquires UAP

Origin Enterprises, which owns Masstock Arable and Origin Fertilisers, has acquired the business of UAP (United Agri Products).

The Dublin company has bought 100% of UAP in a deal understood to be worth £37m.

UAP provides agronomy services to 8000 arable, fruit and vegetable growers, with a team of 100 agronomists. Managing director Stephen Derbyshire said: “The transaction represents a defining milestone in the development of UAP.

“In Origin we have found an organisation that has demonstrated a tangible track record in supporting the primary sectors of the food industry. UAP will become an integral part of a leading organisation committed to delivering sustained value to farmers through its technical ability, substantial resources and a commitment to new technology.”

Mr Derbyshire led the management buyout of UAP from then-parent ConAgra Foods in 2005.

Tom O’Mahony, chief executive of Origin, said the acquisitions represented a strategic fit for the group and reinforced Origin’s commitment to building scale, systems and processes around the key elements that support profitable and sustainable farming systems.

“We are delighted with the acquisitions of UAP and Rigby Taylor [sports turf and amenity business], which are two highly focused businesses with a dedicated commitment to customer service and quality.

“UAP plays a pivotal role in supporting on-farm decision making and product specification for the benefit of primary producers. UAP will provide customer extension opportunity for the group’s integrated service offering, as well as enabling the development of new innovative service propositions.”