Christchurch-based primary products exporter Garra is merging with the US-founded trading company KIT international.
Christchurch exporter Garra specialises in exporting high quality red meat, dairy, vegetables and seafood. Photo: 123RF
The companies have a combined turnover in excess of $350 million.
Garra specialises in selling high quality red meat, dairy, vegetables and seafood to markets in the Middle East, North Africa, Asia and North America. KIT International was founded in 2011 and sells around 65,000 tonnes of primary produce annually throughout the world.
Garra founder Ali Mossalem said combining resources would strengthen both companies as they have complementary markets, products and customers.
"For example... Garra does not trade in chicken meat, but KIT does. So, for our established customers in the Middle East, the ability to add chicken to our range is likely to grow our market share in that region.
"Similarly, Garra's access to some of the best red meats and other primary produce that New Zealand and Australia have to offer will augment KIT's product range," Ali Mossalem said.
The joint venture will combine 85 current staff and necessitate new hires in Christchurch and other global offices, Mr Mossalem said.
The merged companies will have offices in New Zealand, Brazil, Paraguay, Egypt, Jordan, United Arab Emirates, the United States and Australia.