GreenFruit Avocados, a fully integrated avocado supplier based in Newport Beach, CA, announced that it has merged with FrutiVal, a Mexican grower and packinghouse. The merger will position the company to create direct programs from Mexico to the United States and other overseas markets year-round.
FrutiVal also provides GreenFruit with a state-of-the-art packing facility in Uruapan, Michoacán, that is equipped with two packinglines — one for the U.S. market and the other for overseas markets.
The merger aligns with GreenFruit Avocados’ ambitious growth goals for both the United States and Asian markets. As consumption of avocados continues to increase, it’s crucial to have a consistent, steady supply for customers.
“I am very happy to announce our partnership with GreenFruit Avocados,” said Ygnacio Valerio, general director at FrutiVal S.A. of C.A., who has 22 years of experience in the Hass avocado industry. “This alliance presents exciting new opportunities for our clients to obtain avocados directly from the grower. GreenFruit clients can expect fresh fruit, and a fully compliant food-safety program. We see a long, successful partnership with GreenFruit Avocados to provide our clientele with a service they can trust.”
The new partnership also makes GreenFruit Avocados a direct grower for both organic and conventional orchards in Mexico, which is a fundamental part of long-term pricing for retailers and foodservice customers. Understanding cost and volumes in the fields allows GreenFruit to create long-term fixed price programs, enabling customers to sell more avocados.
“I am extremely excited about the new partnership,” Brian Gomez, vice president of GreenFruit Avocados, added. “Not only does this make us a direct grower and packer in Mexico, but it also enables us to customize programs for our clients in the U.S. and around the world.”
Source: The Produce News