Del Rey Avocado's Jessica Hunter and Patrick Lucy Discuss Recent Facility Advancements
FALLBROOK, CA - Del Rey Avocado is laying the groundwork for an upcoming upward trajectory, as the company is currently seeing the results of strategic facility advancements. After kicking off a remodel and construction of a new pack line at its production facility back in September 2021, the purveyor is now fully utilizing these developments to uplift its avocado portfolio.
“With shortages of packaging equipment supplies and a lot of new technology coming out each year, you have to really plan this type of project out,” Jessica Hunter, Chief Executive Officer, who oversees all production, tells me as we discuss the long-term expansion. “The whole process formally took a year, and we are very happy with our decision. We know that we have chosen the best machine and equipment for us.”
The new pack line optimizes Compac grading and a state-of-the-art sizer machine, which allows Del Rey Avocado to increase its hourly production capacity by 80 percent. In addition, the company has also implemented a box closer to decrease labor and boost efficiency.
“The technology that the Compac line comes with will ensure cleaner pack-outs and better-looking fruit for our customers, which will trickle down to consumers getting the best California avocado possible,” adds Patrick Lucy, President of Del Rey Avocado.
With these recent facility developments, Del Rey Avocado can better meet its customers’ needs, especially as export business for California avocados to the South Pacific and Asia has continued to grow year over year. The move also allows the company’s growers to harvest more often without having to wait for more fruit to be packed.
“The produce industry is ever-changing, so we are always looking for the ‘next best thing’ to provide the best services to our growers and customers,” explains Patrick. “We want to make sure we always maximize the dollar return for our growers while providing our customers the best product at the fairest price possible.”
Stay tuned with AndNowUKnow as we continue to report on the latest strategic expansions driving growth across the produce industry.
