California-based avocado company has opened a new ripening and distribution center in Portland, Oregon, expanding its capabilities in the Pacific-Northwest.

“Portland, Ore., is a great location for our new FDC,” said 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."

He said that in addition to coolers, refrigerated cool systems and ripe rooms, the facility will house five functional refrigerated loading docks and five temporary non-refrigerated docks.

“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, Ore., to broaden our ripe capacities in the Pacific-Northwest region, keeping Mission within a 24-hour truck-drive away anywhere nationwide.”

Mission hosted a grand opening of the new facility on August 30. The event was for customers and potential partners to tour 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.”