Sun World International and Mission Produce have announced a collaboration to identify and commercialize innovative mango varieties, addressing historical inconsistencies in quality and variety differentiation within the global market.
The collaboration pairs Bakersfield, California-based Sun World’s fruit genetics and licensing experience with Mission Produce’s global supply chain and ripening infrastructure.
The companies will focus on identifying commercially viable varieties that offer better returns for growers and more consistency for consumers.
“Mangoes are a category full of potential, and most people in the industry know there’s a real opportunity to innovate to bring a great eating experience every time,” said Bernardo Calvo, president and CEO of Sun World International.
“What drew us to [Mission] is that they get it – they aren’t afraid to innovate boldly. Both of our organizations care about quality, think long-term and are willing to explore what’s next to lift the entire category.”
Sun World recently expanded its mango pipeline through the acquisition of the Biogold breeding program. The company offers three commercial varieties for licensing, including the early-season Kankun variety, while evaluating nearly 600 potential varieties in early-stage assessment.
Mission Produce, a leader in the avocado sector, has invested in vertically integrated mango farms in Peru and a year-round sourcing network.
The company uses its distribution centers and ripening capabilities to manage mango programs for retail, wholesale and foodservice customers.
“This collaboration builds on the strong foundation we’ve established in mangos and brings together Sun World’s leadership in variety innovation with Mission’s global sourcing, vertical integration and ripening expertise,” said John Pawlowski, president and COO of Mission Produce.
“Together, we can accelerate progress toward a more reliable, high-quality experience for consumers.”
The joint effort will target production regions across Latin America, including Mexico, Brazil and Peru. For independent grocers and suppliers, the move signals a shift toward proprietary genetics designed to improve shelf stability and consumer demand.
“That commitment to quality and consistency starts at the source and carries through the entire supply chain,” noted Keith Barnard, SVP of global sourcing at Mission Produce. “When we deliver on that promise, it drives stronger retail performance, builds consumer trust and ultimately fuels long-term growth for the category.”
[RELATED: Mission Produce To Acquire Calavo Growers In $430M Deal]