Duxton Farms Acquires 100% of Four Companies, Eyes Asset Sales
Duxton Farms has completed its strategic merger, acquiring full ownership of four Australian agricultural companies and setting the stage for a diversified investment platform.
- Merger approved by Federal Court and fully implemented
- Duxton Farms now wholly owns four private companies in walnuts, dried fruits, orchards, and bees
- Scheme shareholders to receive new shares or cash, with escrow conditions for key stakeholders
- Potential sale of Loxton apple orchard and other properties under consideration
- Integration efforts underway to capitalise on merger opportunities
Strategic Merger Completion
Duxton Farms Ltd (ASX, DBF) has officially completed its much-anticipated strategic merger, acquiring full ownership of four private Australian companies operating across walnuts, dried fruits, orchards, and bees. This milestone follows the Federal Court of Australia's approval on 21 October 2025, marking the successful transfer of all ordinary and preference shares to Duxton Farms.
The acquired entities, Duxton Dried Fruits Pty Ltd, Duxton Dairies (Cobram) Pty Ltd (known as Duxton Walnuts), Duxton Bees Pty Ltd, and Duxton Orchards Pty Ltd, are now wholly owned subsidiaries. This consolidation is a significant step in Duxton Farms’ ambition to build a large, diversified agricultural investment platform.
Shareholder Considerations and Escrow Arrangements
Scheme shareholders involved in the merger will receive their entitlements in the form of new Duxton Farms shares or cash, depending on their election or eligibility status. Notably, shareholders who are directors or those receiving 200,000 or more shares will be subject to escrow restrictions for up to 18 months, ensuring alignment with the company’s long-term strategic goals.
Operational Outlook and Asset Sales
Looking ahead, Duxton Farms is actively exploring opportunities to optimise its asset portfolio. The company is considering a potential sale of the Loxton apple orchard, acquired as part of the merger, to a major international fresh fruit processor and distributor. This prospective transaction is still under negotiation and contingent on due diligence and broader distribution arrangements.
Additionally, Duxton Farms is reviewing non-binding indicative offers for its Cowarbin and Merriment properties, with formal contracts and due diligence processes ongoing. These potential divestments suggest a strategic focus on streamlining operations and reallocating capital to core growth areas.
Strategic Integration and Future Prospects
Deputy Chair Rachel Triggs acknowledged the complexity of the merger process and expressed optimism about the future. She highlighted the substantial task ahead in integrating the businesses but emphasized the strengthened position Duxton Farms now holds to pursue its strategic objectives. The company’s management and advisors are focused on realising the full potential of the merger over the coming years, with investor support remaining a key pillar.
Bottom Line?
With full ownership secured, Duxton Farms embarks on integration and asset optimisation to unlock long-term value.
Questions in the middle?
- How will Duxton Farms manage the integration challenges across diverse agricultural sectors?
- What financial impact will the potential sales of Loxton orchard and other properties have on the company?
- When will escrowed shares be released, and how might this affect shareholder dynamics?