Mission Produce has opened a state-of-the-art ripening and distribution centre in Portland, Oregon, as it looks to expand its capabilities in the Pacific-Northwest region of the US.
“Portland is a great location for our new Forward Distribution Centre (FDC),” stated Ben Barnard, vice-president of global partnerships and business development at the avocado producer, distributor and marketer. “This new facility, at 58,000 square feet, will expand our ripe capacity by providing ten ripe rooms that are each capable of storing 24 pallets. Also, the facility will enhance our cold storage by offering two coolers and a cutting-edge refrigerated control system.”
In addition to coolers, a refrigerated control system, and ripe rooms, the Portland facility will house five functional refrigerated loading docks and five temporary non-refrigerated docks.
“Mission is extremely excited about this new facility,” outlined Steve Barnard, president and CEO. “We are always looking ahead and considering the demand for avocados. Our continued growth within the ripe category is necessary. This FDC is strategically positioned in Portland to broaden our ripe capacities in the Pacific-Northwest region, keeping Mission within a 24-hour truck-drive away anywhere nationwide.”
Mission hosted a grand opening of the new facility on 30 August for customers and potential partners to tour the FDC and meet members of the Mission team from quality, sales, and ripening.
“Our team of Mission trained experts were thrilled to host this grand opening,' noted Ryan Fink, vice-president of North America operations. 'They are ready to continue assisting the Pacific-Northwest region with their ripening expertise and knowledge of the avocado industry standards.
“By continuing to expand our facilities, we are able to better serve our growing customer base with additional capacity to react when needed,' he added. 'Also, with the upgraded refrigeration and ripening controls we are able to continue to monitor and ensure conditions stay optimal to deliver the highest quality fruit to our customers daily.”
