USA – Automated food processing equipment supplier, Duravant has signed a definitive agreement to acquire California-based optical sorting technology provider for fruits and nuts, Woodside Electronics Corporation (WECO).

WECO has been supplying optical sorting technology serves several industries including tomatoes, walnuts, blueberries, pecans and wine grapes for over 30 years.

The company’s portfolio includes ‘highly intelligent’ optical color and defect sorting systems and moisture monitoring systems.

Along with Key Technology, which Duravant acquired in early 2018, WECO will significantly extend Duravant’s reach across automated food processing and inspection categories.

Mike Kachmer, President and CEO of Duravant said that the acquisition will enable the company to offer its customers with new complementary products, technologies and applications.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Don Douglas and the entire WECO team to Duravant. WECO’s culture of customer-centric innovation and commitment to rapid and effective new product development makes them a wonderful addition to the Duravant family.

“WECO moves us into new markets with product-focused applications that are complementary to Key Technology’s offerings; allowing us to provide an even more complete solutions set to our customers,” Kachmer said.

“WECO is truly excited to join Duravant, and we look forward to collaborating with the portfolio of Duravant companies,” said Don Douglas, President of WECO.

“Duravant and WECO are clearly aligned with a shared culture and Duravant’s global footprint will assist us in accelerating growth while continuing to provide world-class innovation and support to our customers.”

In January this year, the company further expanded its offering with the acquisition of Dutch provider of potato and vegetable processing solutions, Herbert Solutions.

Duravant has also expanded Key Technology’s facility in Beusichem, the Netherlands. Through an investment that increased Key’s production capacity at the site by 50%, the company said that the expansion will speed delivery of Key’s optical sorters and vibratory conveying solutions to food processors across the world.