Refresco acquires natural food manufacturer SunOpta

Refresco, a Netherlands-based independent beverage solutions provider, acquires SunOpta, a North American supply chains solution provider, for approx. US$1.1 billion.

Originally founded in Canada in 1973, SunOpta manufactures and develops plant-based beverages, fruit snacks, broths and snacks for distribution in North America to brands and private labels.

Refresco, whose Canadian headquarters is in Mississauga, Ont., manufactures soft drinks, juices, teas and energy drinks for a large portfolio of clients in North America, Europe and Australia.

“This strategic combination validates our vision of transforming SunOpta into a premier solutions partner in the high-growth better-for-you food and beverage space. Over the past several years, we’ve built exceptional platforms serving marquee customers and consistently delivering double-digit growth while maintaining the highest food safety and quality standards. This partnership with Refresco provides the resources and scale to unlock SunOpta’s full potential,” said Brian Kocher, CEO, SunOpta.

This acquisition will expand Refresco’s North American footprint and portfolio of plant-based products.

The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026 and will make SunOpta a subsidiary of Refresco.