Two years ago HNFC moved into a $17m premises with high-tech sorting equipment in Havelock North, thanks to a Dragons' Den-style pitch to Bay of Plenty investors familiar with the kiwifruit industry.
Professional director and fruit sector expert John Loughlin became chairman and paid tribute to the former managing director.
"Phil made a huge contribution in recognising the potential of the fruit, then establishing and leading the business toward building the Rockit global brand," Mr Loughlin said.
"We will always be greatly appreciative of the work he put in to creating the international platform for the business."
Rockit is grown in seven countries and sold in 22. Only 3 per cent of production is sold in New Zealand.
On Sunday HNFC announced the sale of Mr Alison's share in the company and his replacement by Austin Mortimer as chief executive, effective immediately, as would trading under the name Rockit Global Ltd.
Mr Loughlin announced that entities associated with Pioneer Capital and Oriens Capital, New Zealand private equity growth investors, have purchased Mr Alison's shares and the company founder would no longer be involved with the company, its subsidiaries, or orchard suppliers.
The Rockit Global board will include incumbents Mr Loughlin, Murray Denyer, Steve Saunders and Neil Craig. They will be joined by James Beale for Oriens Capital and Craig Styris for Pioneer Capital.
"It is very positive that growth equity investors of this calibre, from outside the pipfruit industry, are recognising the tremendous potential in Rockit Global Ltd and the industry," Mr Loughlin said.
"The new shareholders have experience in growing New Zealand export businesses. They will contribute governance expertise and additional capital to help the company deliver on its ambitious growth plans."
Mr Alison said he had other opportunities across a number of sectors.
"I don't intend to let the grass grow under my feet - I don't do idle."
