Westfalia Fruit opens new avocado ripening center in Winston-Salem, NC
Avocado giant Westfalia Fruit opened a Fresh Distribution and Ripening Center (FDC) in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
The strategic expansion, developed in partnership with local fresh-food full-service logistics company Foster USA, strengthens the company’s presence along the Eastern Seaboard while enhancing access to ripe-and-ready avocado programs across the Mid-Atlantic region.
“We are proud to partner with Westfalia Fruit on this exciting expansion,” said Scott Bland, CEO and Owner of Foster USA. “Together, we’re improving access to ripe-and-ready avocados for Mid-Atlantic customers while setting a new standard for produce distribution and supply chain innovation in the region.”
The new Winston-Salem FDC features the avocado giant's state-of-the-art ripening rooms equipped with advanced, digitally controlled technology to deliver consistent, customer-specific ripeness. The facility also includes sophisticated storage and packing capabilities, designed to reinforce the company’s forward-distribution model and ensure faster, fresher deliveries to retail and foodservice customers.
Westfalia is meeting rising demand with localized ripening expertise
With avocado consumption continuing to grow across the Mid-Atlantic, the company's expansion directly addresses evolving customer needs for speed to market, quality fruit, and supply chain efficiency. Strategically located near major transport corridors in the region, the Winston-Salem facility enables shorter transit times, reduced carbon footprint, and improved freshness for customers throughout the region.
“Our partnership with Foster USA allows us to meet customers where they are,” said Raina Nelson, President of Westfalia Fruit North America. “The Mid-Atlantic is one of the fastest growing produce markets in the US, and this new facility positions our avocado expertise closer to customers—enhancing consistency, service levels, and overall performance.”
Beyond distribution, the Winston-Salem facility will also serve as a hub for ripening education and customer collaboration, hosting programs that promote category growth, tailored retailer promotions, and best-in-class ripening practices.
*All images are referential and courtesy of Westfalia Fruit.
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