Starting July 1, 2024, and after an exhaustive international search process, Hortifrut appoints as Chief Executive Officer of the Company, Mr. Héctor Enrique Luján Valladolid, who will lead Hortifrut's operations worldwide. Mr. Luján, a Mexican national, will initially be based in the United States.

Having completed the period defined by the current CEO, Juan Ignacio Allende, he will continue as Director of Hortifrut in subsidiaries and related companies, including Naturipe in North America, and leading other strategic functions that he will define with the Board of Directors. Allende, a leader in the berry sector worldwide, leaves a great legacy after his successful career, his ability to build alliances, high-performance teams and the development of business relationships, which have allowed continued global growth. from Hortifrut.

Juan Ignacio Allende commented “It has been a true honor to lead the growth and expansion of Hortifrut during all these years and I know that I leave the management of the company in the best hands. I especially want to thank the board and the entire team of the great family Hortifrut"

Héctor Luján is a prominent Mexican professional with 28 years of experience in the agricultural industry and 22 years specifically in the berry sector. His background includes directing and managing global operations, leading multidisciplinary teams and developing talent, demonstrating an exceptional ability to adapt and excel in diverse environments. Recognized for his great human quality, he has been instrumental in triggering and executing high growth in the industry in North America, Europe and Asia.

Juan Ignacio Allende and Héctor Enrique Luján Valladolid

Héctor Lujan stated “I thank the board for trusting me to lead this great organization. With enthusiasm I fully integrate into its entrepreneurial spirit and its culture of innovation, promoting associativity and reaffirming our commitment to people and the environment. “Together, we will work tirelessly to achieve our goals and lead the company towards a prosperous and sustainable future.”

Nicolas Moller, Chairman of the Board of Hortifrut, stated:

“On behalf of the board, I thank Juan Ignacio for his outstanding management as CEO in recent years. His vision and passion for berries have contributed greatly to solidifying the company's position as number one in blueberries in the world and leader in the berry category, with sales of more than $1.000 billion.

I want to give the warmest welcome to Héctor. We are sure that his leadership, human quality and deep knowledge of the industry will be key to propelling Hortifrut to new levels of growth, bringing the best “berries to the whole world every day.”