Radfords, a worldwide leader in fresh produce software, has announced a strategic investment from Arcadea Group, a global SaaS investor focused on long-term growth. The investment marks Arcadea’s entry into the burgeoning AgTech sector.
Radfords’ software services span the entire fresh produce value chain, including orchard owners, packhouses, and marketers. The company’s founder, Phil Radford, will transition to a board role, while CEO Adam Cuming will continue to lead the company.
Established in 1989 in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty by Phil Radford, Radfords has grown into a crucial software provider for various produce sectors, including Kiwifruit, Avocadoes, Cherries, Citrus, Apples, and Vegetables.
Arcadea’s investment aims to bolster Radfords’ ongoing commitment to its customers and facilitate international expansion, responding to the substantial global demand for its fresh produce software suite.
“Amid increasing consumer and retailer demands, the fresh produce sector needs a digital partner that can assist their value chain from soil to supermarket,” said CEO Adam Cuming. “With Arcadea, we can elevate our products and services for our valued existing customers and serve the many new customers joining our family as we expand into new markets.”
Phil Radford stated that the partnership with Arcadea was a clear choice due to its commitment to long-term customer relationships, its global growth vision, and its established presence in Radfords’ core growth regions.
Paul Yancich, Managing Director of Arcadea Group, highlighted Radfords’ ability to bring substantial value to complex crops and market ecosystems and its customer-centric approach, mission-critical products, and unparalleled market leadership and knowledge.
“Radfords’ customers can have confidence in the long-term growth and financial health of Radfords,” said Nelson Ball, Vice President of Arcadea Group. “Arcadea is aggressively building in the AgTech sector, with more exciting developments to share soon.”
Daniel Eisen, Managing Director of Arcadea, expressed excitement about partnering with Radfords for their next phase of significant international growth. “This investment, our second in New Zealand and third in the Australasia region, demonstrates our commitment to high-quality, growing, founder-controlled businesses and our differentiation as the region’s only truly growth-oriented VSaaS investor,” Eisen said.
Image provided by Radfords
