SunOpta to Be Acquired by Refresco in $1.1 Billion Deal

Twin-cities-based SunOpta Inc. has announced it will be acquired by global beverage producer and distributor Refresco in a deal valued at $1.1 billion.

Refresco, headquartered in the Netherlands, says the purchase will expand its portfolio of “better-for-you” beverages, including plant-based products such as oat and soy milk. Demand for plant-based beverages has grown steadily in recent years, with plant-based milk — including oat, almond, soy and coconut varieties — now representing the largest segment of the category worldwide.

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SunOpta is best known for manufacturing fruit- and plant-based beverages for a variety of national brands, as well as its own labels, including SOWN, Dream, West Life and Sunrise Growers. The company is headquartered in Eden Prairie and operates a warehouse and production facility in Alexandria.

The transaction will be paid entirely in cash. Under the agreement, SunOpta shareholders will receive $6.50 per share. The sale is expected to be finalized in the second quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals.

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