New appointments will lead next phase of US market growth
The Colombia Avocado Board (CAB) held its Annual Meeting on 16 October, bringing together directors and association members to review the year’s progress and elect the nine-member board of directors for the 2025/26 term.
Four officer positions were filled, including one new director, as CAB seeks to build momentum for another year of growth and stronger retail partnerships in the US market.
Newly elected to the board of directors is Galen Johnson, CAB secretary and importer director from Mission Produce. he replaces Brock Becker, also of Mission Produce. “Johnson brings more than 15 years of experience in retail, wholesale, and foodservice sales,” CAB said.
Members re-elected to new officer roles were: Kellen Newhouse, CAB chair and importer director from West Pak Avocado; Ricardo Uribe, CAB vice chair and exporter director from Cartama and Sergio Plata Ortiz, CAB treasurer and exporter director from Baika Fruit.
Each director serves a two-year term and may be re-elected to continue serving in subsequent terms. The board plays a key role in providing strategic guidance, oversight, and direction for CAB’s efforts to strengthen the presence of Avocados from Colombia across the US retail and foodservice sectors.
“The Colombian avocado industry continues to grow and gain recognition as a trusted origin for consistent, high-quality fruit,” said Manuel Michel, managing director of the CAB.
“This calendar year, Colombia is on pace to reach 150mn lbs of exports to the US – an 85 per cent increase from the prior year. That growth reflects the commitment of our growers, exporters, and importers to delivering quality and reliability week after week. Our Board brings the experience and alignment needed to strengthen retailer confidence and ensure that Avocados from Colombia remain an essential part of the category’s year-round success.”
Since gaining access to the US in 2017, Colombia has steadily built its reputation as a reliable, year-round source of Hass avocados. Today, there are 620 US-certified orchards – a 42 per cent increase over last year – spanning 40,200 acres, an increase of 37 per cent year on year.
