In a deal consummated February 1st, 2012, Sunkist Growers and Ventura Coastal have joined forces, uniting their long-time juice processing operations in order to provide more extensive service to their customers.

The newly formed company, Ventura Coastal LLC, a 50%/50% joint venture, will be headed by William (Bill) Borgers, CEO of Ventura Coastal. It will operate both the current Ventura Coastal plant in Visalia and the Sunkist plant in Tipton.

“The two processing facilities are extremely complimentary,” said Borgers. “Both Sunkist and Ventura Coastal bring a steady supply of products grade fruit, a skilled group of employees, state-of-the-art processing equipment and high quality products into the new company.”

“We believe the efficiencies achieved will better serve both our customers and growers,” added Sunkist President & CEO Russ Hanlin. ”

During 2012, Borgers expects the new joint venture will transition to a single set of processes and systems. “Our goal,” Borgers said “is to grow the joint venture and provide our employees with opportunities and a high quality work experience. Additionally our customers and the growers who provide the joint venture fruit will see additional value created as we blend the capabilities of the two operations.”