Mission Produce Opens New Ripening Center in Portland, Oregon

Tuesday, Sep. 4th, 2018

by Jessica Donnel

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OXNARD, CA - Mission Produce is expanding its reach and capabilities in the Pacific Northwest after opening a state-of-the-art ripening and forward distribution center (FDC) in Portland, Oregon.

“Mission is extremely excited about this new facility,” said 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, Oregon, to broaden our ripe capabilities in the Pacific-Northwest region, keeping Mission within a 24-hour truck drive away anywhere nationwide.”

According to a press release, the Portland facility houses five functional refrigerated loading docks, five temporary non-refrigerated docks, coolers, a refrigerated control system, and ripe rooms.

Ben Barnard, Senior Director of Operations, Mission Produce “Portland, Oregon, is a great location for our new FDC,” added Ben Barnard, Vice President of Global Partnerships and Business Development. “This new facility, at 58,000 square feet, will expand our ripe capacity by providing 10 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."

Mission Produce is expanding its reach and capabilities in the Pacific Northwest after opening a state-of-the-art ripening and forward distribution center (FDC) in Portland, Oregon

To celebrate the opening of the new facility, Mission hosted a grand opening on August 30 for customers and potential partners to get a first glimpse at 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. They are ready to continue assisting the Pacific-Northwest region with their ripening expertise and knowledge of the avocado industry standards,” said Ryan Fink, Vice President of North American Operations. “By continuing to expand our facilities, we are able to better serve our growing customer base with additional capacity to react when needed. 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.”