DNO Produce breaks ground on fresh-cut facility expansion

Columbus, Ohio-based processor and produce distributor DNO Produce has broken ground on an expansion to its fresh-cut produce facility, according to a news release.

The expansion will increase DNO’s production capacity by 33% through additional space, improved layout, and process improvements, according to the company.

“This is an investment in our clients and our company, and our community,” DNO President and Chief Operating Officer Alex DiNovo said in the release. “As the demand for our school food service offerings continues to grow, we are implementing new technologies to make our operations more efficient, add meaningful job opportunities in east Columbus, and provide a top-quality product.” 

DNO’s expansion will put in place new processing and packaging technologies and streamline fresh-cut packing lines, according to the release. The new capacity will ease the way for the company to introduce new and innovative products through its FRESHEALTH private label, according to the release. 

“It is so exciting to see this place keep growing,” Laura Aguilar, a 21-year veteran of the DNO and FRESHEALTH teams, said in the release. “When I first started working here, there were just a few of us in one small building. Now, we have nearly two hundred people. We have come a long way and learned a lot. What I appreciate most is working for a family company that is excited about providing good food for children.”

DNO Produce is a certified HUBZone company, a distinction awarded by the Small Business Administration, according to the release. The certification identifies that DNO provides meaningful commercial activity and employment opportunities to an economically underutilized area. The expansion is expected to be complete by August of 2022, the company said.