5 March, 2026; The Darling family have regained full family ownership of Darling Group Holdings Ltd following the buyout of shares previously held by Booster Tahi LP (BTLP), returning the company to the ownership structure it had prior to BTLP’s investment in 2021.
Darling Group Managing Director Andrew Darling says the transition marks a significant milestone for the family and the business.
“At our core we are, and have always been, a family business.
“Bringing in an investor in 2021 was a necessary step to accelerate the scale and capability required for our growth, and we are incredibly proud to now return the company to full family ownership.”
Darling emphasised the valuable role BTLP played during its investment.
“We are deeply appreciative of the investment, knowledge and capability BTLP brought to Darling Group.
“Their support helped us navigate challenging climatic conditions, global economic pressures, and a critical period of sector change.”
During BTLP’s involvement, Darling Group completed a series of major strategic initiatives, including technology and automation upgrades at the Katikati packhouse, the acquisition of Zeafruit, the establishment of offices in the United States and China, and the expansion of key export programmes, particularly into Canada and China. Darling says these steps have positioned the business strongly for its next phase.
“Booster helped us build capability across the full value chain, and we acknowledge the major contribution they made to our resilience and growth over the past five years.”
Operationally, the business will continue as usual following the ownership change. With BTLP’s shareholding concluded, their board representatives will step down, and Darling Group’s board will return to its earlier structure.
“We thank Duncan Wylie and Paul Foley for their leadership, guidance and partnership.”
The company is positive about the season ahead, with the national avocado crop forecast to increase by about one million trays to nearly eight million for 2026–27. Darling says this larger crop will provide more flexibility and opportunity across multiple markets.
He notes that Australia, while not a market the business is reliant on, is presenting favourable short term conditions due to a reduced domestic crop.
“We see an opportunity in Australia this year, and we will certainly work to capitalise on it where it supports strong grower returns,” he says.
The increased crop will also support continued development in China and Canada, both of which remain important growth markets.
“We will keep expanding our international programmes in a disciplined and balanced way.”
Darling adds that returning to full family ownership reinforces the company’s long term commitment to New Zealand avocado growers and the wider industry.
“This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Darling Group.
“We’re energised by the opportunities ahead and focused on delivering sustainable value for our growers.”
For further comment please contact:
Midge Munro – Group Manager Grower Services, Corporate Affairs and Marketing
midge@darlinggroup.co.nz
027 306 7089