MEXICO - As we have reported many times here on AndNowUKnow, sustainability continues to take precedence for companies across the produce industry, and GLC Cerritos is no different. To boost its efforts, the avocado supplier hired Armando Garcia to serve as its Director of Sustainability.

“Cerritos has shown a strong commitment for its sustainable development over the years, which makes it a very unique company within the Mexican avocado sector; therefore, I am very excited to undertake this new position and work to strengthen Cerritos' sustainability program,” said Garcia. “Cerritos is known throughout the industry for its sustainability efforts. They strive to live up to their mission ‘To inspire agribusiness with sustainability by producing healthy food for the world.’”

The newly created role will evaluate current sustainability initiatives within the company and outline a strategy for future projects.

Before joining GLC Cerritos, Garcia worked as Managing Director of the Jalisco Avocado Growers and Exporters Association (APEAJAL), where he was originally hired to develop its sustainability department. According to a release, he introduced projects with Rainforest Alliance, the United Nations Food & Agriculture Organization, the Business Alliance for Climate, Stronger Together, and has worked on the reforestation program, and other green initiatives that APEAJAL has sponsored.

GLC Cerritos currently farms 3,000 acres of avocados, all of which are certified by GlobalG.A.P. and Rainforest Alliance. The company is currently working to secure Fair Trade certification in preparation for the 2024/25 Mexico avocado season.

“There is so much good that the Mexican avocado industry brings to the communities where we work. Mr. Garcia is a great addition to the team to help define our sustainability strategies and share the message of these efforts with the rest of the industry,” commented Giovanni Cavaletto, U.S. Division President.

Congratulations to Armando Garcia on his new position!