In line with its initiative to expand into high-value specialty ingredients, Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. has acquired a majority stake in Avolio, an Ugandan supplier of bulk crude and edible avocado oil.
Avocados are one of the few fruits from which oil can be extracted from the pulp. Avolio leverages this to create value from fruit that cannot be sold whole – reducing food waste and supporting Fresh Del Monte’s commitment to sustainability and the circular economy.
“Acquiring Avolio is a strategic step aligned with our long-term vision to extract greater value across our supply chain while advancing our commitment to sustainability,” said Mohammad Abu-Ghazaleh, chairman and CEO of Fresh Del Monte.
“It complements our newest business division – biomass and specialty ingredients – through which we are transforming agricultural byproducts into high-impact solutions that enhance soil health, support human wellness and create new applications for a circular economy. These efforts not only reinforce our environmental stewardship but also position us to compete in higher-margin categories that drive profitable growth and long-term shareholder value.”
The combination of Avolio’s extraction technology – which will be scaled to process 140 metric tons of avocados per day – with Fresh Del Monte’s extensive supply chain expertise positions the two companies to lead the market in delivering high-quality, sustainable avocado oil solutions.
The avocado oil industry is poised for growth – valued at about $1.2 billion and growing at a CAGR of 8-10 percent, according to Fortune Business Insights. To further capitalize on this growing industry, Fresh Del Monte plans to expand into other locations through increased production capacity and the development of new facilities to meet the increasing global demand.
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Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. is one of the world’s vertically integrated producers, marketers and distributors of high-quality fresh and fresh-cut fruit and vegetables, as well as a producer and distributor of prepared food in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
It markets products worldwide under the Del Monte brand (under license from Del Monte Foods Inc.). The company also markets its products under the Mann brand and other related trademarks.