**Bengaluru**: Fresh produce brand Origin Fresh has raised $1 million in pre-seed funding led by Aeravti Ventures. The investment aims to improve its delivery network and infrastructure, supporting the company’s commitment to high-quality, farm-fresh products catering to health-conscious consumers.
Origin Fresh, a burgeoning fresh produce brand based in Bengaluru, has successfully secured $1 million in a pre-seed funding round. The investment was led by Aeravti Ventures and included contributions from a consortium of Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (Ultra HNIs). This influx of capital will be allocated to enhance its delivery network and bolster the development of advanced infrastructure, as stated in the company’s press release. Origin Fresh is committed to delivering farm-fresh, high-quality produce, which it believes will significantly enrich culinary experiences and foster overall well-being, thereby encouraging a movement that celebrates the health benefits of fresh produce.
In a separate development, Spanish supermarket chain Consum is set to establish a major distribution hub on the outskirts of Antequera in the Málaga province. The Valencia-based retailer has acquired a 163,000-square-metre parcel of land for this purpose. The centre will feature storage chambers specifically designed for fresh produce alongside dry storage areas for various other products, marking a strategic expansion within the Andalucía region.
Turning to the United Kingdom, Morrisons has recently reported a notable rise in profit, attributed to what its chief executive, Rami Baitiéh, described as the “strongest” quarter since 2021. The supermarket chain has implemented various strategies aimed at reinvigorating its market presence, which have resulted in a 4.1% increase in group like-for-like sales, reaching £15.3 billion for the year ending 27 October. The fourth quarter alone saw sales grow by 4.9% to £3.8 billion, highlighting the chain’s successful efforts to capture market share and attract customers from competitors.
Further fostering sustainability in food retail, Ahold Delhaize has announced a consolidated target of achieving a 50% sales volume of plant-based foods across its European brands by 2030. This commitment is part of the company’s broader objective to inspire customers towards healthier and more sustainable food choices. Notably, Romanian food retailer Profi, which joined Ahold Delhaize in January 2025, is currently excluded from this target.
In Belgium, the supermarket chain Okay City inaugurated a new store in Anderlecht, designed to meet daily shopping needs. This urban format aims to provide a comprehensive range of products, from beverages and household items to an array of fresh food options including fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, and baked goods.
In a significant partnership, UK grocery retailer Waitrose has collaborated with Land App, a digital mapping tool, to enhance sustainable farming practices. This initiative will grant over 2,000 Waitrose farmers complimentary access to advanced mapping tools and expert guidance, facilitating bespoke land management plans focused on environmental protection and sustenance of food production. Dan Geerah, Director of Growth at Land App, commented, “Building resilience and sustainability on farms is more crucial now than ever. It not only supports nature, reduces flooding, and mitigates the effects of climate change but also secures food production for future generations.”
Moreover, the American market is witnessing various developments in grocery retail, with Kroger recently launching a new Marketplace store in Plano, Texas. This outlet replaces an older location to improve customer convenience. Also in the US, Giant Food has announced further price reductions on essential categories such as fresh produce, dairy, and pantry staples, reinforcing its commitment to offering competitive prices.
In another innovative move, Salad and Go is introducing a seasonal menu titled “Greens for Everyone”, showcasing newly created salad recipes aimed at improving vegetable intake among consumers. This initiative reflects a broader concern regarding dietary habits, as statistics indicate that only one in ten adults in the United States meet the recommended vegetable intake.
Finally, BJ’s Wholesale Club plans to establish its fourth ambient distribution centre in Commercial Point, Ohio, expected to open in early 2027. This facility is part of a strategic growth initiative to support expanding operations across multiple locations in Ohio, alongside the introduction of a new Walmart Supercentre in southern Ontario, which will feature a comprehensive grocery selection including fresh produce, meat, and other essentials.
These developments in supplier relationship management and procurement strategies reveal a shift from traditional cost management to creating value through collaboration and resilient supplier relationships. This new focus is seen as fundamental in gaining a competitive advantage in the evolving food retail landscape.
Source: Noah Wire Services
