Murrietta, Calif.-based West Pak Avocado has expanded its Apeel treatment capabilities with a new installation at the company’s facility in Michoacán, Mexico. The first installation took place at West Pak’s Murrieta facility in 2021. The addition of the Michoacán installation will significantly increase the company’s capacity to supply Apeel-protected avocados. Both West Pak facilities now provide at-source treatment options to deliver a year-round supply of Apeel-protected avocados to retailers in North America, Asia and Europe.
“We have made the strategic investment to expand our Apeel treatment capacity in our Michoacán packinghouse because it fits perfectly with our objective to provide best-in-class service to our customers,” Mario Pacheco, CEO at West Pak, said. “We look forward to providing longer shelf-life from our Mexican operations.”
Extending the life of avocados has benefits for retailers and consumers alike.
“I am thrilled that we have the capability to offer Apeel-protected avocados to customers in all markets that we serve,” Doug Meyer, senior vice president of sales and marketing at West Pak, said. “Apeel protection gives retailers the opportunity to merchandise further-ripened avocados on their bulk displays and increases the size of their bag displays with more time for sell-through. Consumers are also given more time to enjoy their avocados at home.”
Not only does the added shelf life offer benefits down the supply chain, it also helps combat food waste.
“We are excited to expand our operations with West Pak,” Erich Klawuhn, Apeel senior vice president of product. “With Apeel’s protection, West Pak’s retailers can offer longer-lasting produce that makes it easier to purchase more while preventing waste.”
