Oct 27, 2004

Dole Food Acquires Coastal Berry

Dole Food Co. announced it has completed the acquisition of Coastal Berry Co. Coastal Berry is a leading producer of fresh California coastal strawberries and bushberries (raspberries and blackberries).

With this acquisition, Dole should become the third largest producer of fresh strawberries for 2004. Fresh strawberry consumption continues to grow on a per capita basis driven by its broad consumer appeal and nutritional properties.

David H. Murdock, Dole Food chairman and CEO, said: “We are extremely pleased with our acquisition of this producer of high-end fresh berries. This acquisition is a part of Dole’s strategy to expand its line of fresh products to better serve its customers and to provide consumers with nutritious, healthy products.”

Dole Food, with 2003 revenues of $4.8 billion, is the world’s largest producer and marketer of high-quality fresh fruit, fresh vegetables and fresh-cut flowers. Dole markets a growing line of packaged and frozen foods and is a produce industry leader in nutrition education and research.