Mangoes supplied to Whole Foods Market in Los Angeles in collaboration with Sonora-based grower Campos Borquez
Leading Australian fresh produce company Perfection Fresh has expanded the global reach of its Calypso mangoes by supplying the US market with Mexican-grown fruit in collaboration with Campos Borquez, a fourth-generation grower based in Sonora.
This initiative follows a successful growing and retail trial at Whole Foods Market in Los Angeles, where the product sold out rapidly. This initial trial signifies the start of Perfection Fresh’s comprehensive international strategy to establish Calypso mangoes as a global brand in the mangoes segment.
After four years of rigorous trials, propagation is underway for the first commercial plantation early in 2025. This initial expansion is targeted at addressing the increasing demand for high-quality mangoes within the North American market.
Michael Simonetta, chief executive of Perfection Fresh said the results of the trial underscored the strong market potential and consumer appeal of Calypso mangoes.
“Our research shows significant potential for growth in mango consumption in North America, which we believe can capitalise on with a premium and unique mango like Calypso, which is loved by consumers,” said Simonetta.
According to Perfection Fresh, Calypso’s unique attributes, including high fruit-to-seed ratio, firm flesh with less stringy bits and extended shelf-life, make it an attractive offering for retailers looking to enhance their premium produce range.
“The variety is eye-catching and eats very well. It also surprised us how well it holds its firm consistency and overall quality over time – a great attribute to ensure positive consumer experience at home and motivate them coming back for more,” said Whole Foods Market category manager, Jared Bayse.
Whilst the Mexican season has now finished, Calypso mangoes will return to the shelves in Whole Foods Market again between July and September 2025.
Calypso mangoes are currently grown in Obregon, Sonora where the Borquez family has farmed for four generations. Not only is the orchard only 550km from the US border, but it is also in a fruit fly free zone, which means that there is no requirement for hot water treatment for export, which helps preserve the product’s flavour, freshness, and overall quality.
Additionally, the supply timing is favourable, representing the last part of the Mexican season in August-September when the category is traditionally undersupplied.
“Calypso mangoes are poised to become a staple in the premium North American market,” stated Pablo Borquez, founder of Campos Borquez. “We look forward to working with retailers to build a quality and resilient supply chain that meets the growing demand for premium mangoes.”
The successful trial crop cultivated by Campos Borquez signals a robust opportunity for the Calypso variety in other geographies, according to Perfection Fresh.