Facility includes state-of-art avocado ripening rooms equipped with advanced, digitally controlled technology to deliver consistent, customer-specific ripeness
Westfalia Fruit has opened its newest Fresh Distribution and Ripening Center (FDC) in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
The strategic expansion, developed in partnership with Foster USA, strengthens Westfalia Fruit’s presence along the Eastern Seaboard while enhancing access to ripe-and-ready avocado programmes across the Mid-Atlantic region.
It features Westfalia Fruit’s state-of-art avocado ripening rooms equipped with advanced, digitally controlled technology to deliver consistent, customer-specific ripeness. The facility also includes sophisticated storage and packing capabilities, designed to reinforce Westfalia Fruit’s forward-distribution model and ensure faster, fresher deliveries to retail and foodservice customers.
The location of the centre is near major Mid-Atlantic transport corridors, enabling shorter transit times, reduced carbon footprint, and improved freshness for customers throughout the region.
“Our partnership with Foster USA allows us to meet customers where they are,” said Raina Nelson, president of Westfalia Fruit North America. “The Mid-Atlantic is one of the fastest growing produce markets in the US, and this new facility positions our avocado expertise closer to customers – enhancing consistency, service levels, and overall performance.”
Scott Bland, CEO and owner of Foster USA said the company was proud to partner with Westfalia Fruit on its expansion.
“Together, we’re improving access to ripe-and-ready avocados for Mid-Atlantic customers while setting a new standard for produce distribution and supply chain innovation in the region,” Bland said.
Beyond distribution, the Winston-Salem facility will also serve as a hub for ripening education and customer collaboration, hosting programmes that promote category growth, tailored retailer promotions, and best-in-class ripening practices. These initiatives reflect Westfalia Fruit’s commitment to industry leadership, sustainability, and long-term category development.
