Bertels will strengthen the company’s export programmes and consolidate its push into North America
Colombian avocado exporter Hass Express has appointed Robb Bertels as vice president of business development. Bertels brings over 30 years of produce industry experience and will spearhead the company’s expansion into the North American market.
“Robb’s strategic insight and deep industry relationships are a strong match for our growth goals,” said CEO Samuel Chio. COO Ahmed Attia added: “His leadership will help us strengthen our export programmes and deepen connections across the supply chain”.
Chio and Attia founded Hass Express in 2018 in San Vicente, Colombia. The company oversees more than 1,130ha of Hass avocado production, combining company-owned farms and a network of partner growers under its direct management. It supplies avocados year-round to North America, with shipments arriving at the Ports of Philadelphia and Miami.
Bertels said: “The avocado business is global, and Hass Express stands out. Their Colombian operations, packinghouse, and tech are impressive. As the market becomes more data-driven, Hass Express is using every tool to deliver quality to North America”.
The company operates a state-of-the-art packing facility strategically located near its growing regions, enabling efficient sourcing, packing, and export operations.
“With our recent expansion into the US market, we now maintain full control and traceability from orchard to retail shelf, offering clients a reliable and high-quality supply of avocados supported by direct oversight of every stage of the process,” the company said. “Hass Express values sustainable farming and respects the link between land and produce.”
