Tag: Press Release

Index Fresh Readies for Ample Peruvian Avocados Starting in May

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South American Producer Expands Season with Quality Avocados Available Throughout Summer BBQ Season

Quality Peruvian avocados will be plentiful for US consumers starting in early May and remain available in promotable volumes throughout the summer. Index Fresh, a global leader in fresh avocados, reports that its Peruvian avocado programs will start earlier this year due to higher volumes grown in ideal weather conditions. Peru’s avocado industry has been on a growth trajectory, and US grocers who lock in stable pricing now will enjoy ample, dependable supply for the whole season.

Dalila Rivera

“Peru’s avocado crop is hitting its stride. As new plantings mature and more trees start producing, the whole Peruvian industry has gained experience serving international markets,” said Dalila Rivera, Vice President of Global Sourcing for Index Fresh. “Tariff talk in the US led to some uncertainty, but Peru’s forecast is looking strong, so there won’t be significant changes or interruptions in shipments. We are seeing what could be the best year yet for the top South American avocado supplier.”

Mexico continues to be the primary source of avocados for the United States, but Peru’s increased presence during the May through August window will help maintain inventory levels when summer supply gaps from Mexico cannot fully meet US demand. Peru’s global avocado export volume is projected to increase by over 1/3 this year, which should help stabilize both supply and pricing for US consumers looking to enjoy guacamole and quality avocados during the summer backyard BBQ season. Peru represents the largest sourcing region offering season-long fixed pricing, enabling customers to plan ahead without needing to react to market fluctuations.

In recent years, Peru has increased market share around the globe. In avocados and other agricultural products, Peru has earned a reputation for being a sophisticated producer ready to tap into shipping routes reaching North America, Europe, and Asia. Experience has brought efficiency and competitiveness to the Peruvian avocado industry.

Grocers can lock in pricing now for Peruvian bulk and bagged avocados from Index Fresh. Retailers who take advantage of Index’s value-added ripening services, have seen increased consumer acceptance and repeat purchases. Peruvian avocados will also be promoted and marketed in the US by the Avocados from Peru trade organization. Partnerships in promoting Peruvian avocados have positioned the 2025 season as a breakthrough year for Peru, with an estimated 60% increase in fruit entering the US market, establishing Peru as a more recognized and reliable avocado source for US consumers.

“We have observed our Peruvian program develop with strong commitment over the past several years,” Rivera said. “It is rewarding to supply another high-quality avocado source to a market that is knowledgeable and eager for nutritious and flavorful fruit.”

Index Fresh Launches California Crema™ Gem Avocados

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It’ll soon be the “time to shine” for avocados wearing the California Crema label offered exclusively by Index Fresh, a global avocado production, distribution, and marketing leader. Icons of the Golden State, California Crema Avocados are the GEM variety — gold-flecked, deliciously creamy, and in season annually between April and July, while supplies last. 

This season, avocado lovers will discover something extra special with California Crema. The unique offering is harvested by California farmers, packs tons of flavor and nutritional density, and pairs resilience with responsibility. Sold bagged and in bulk with eye-catching, innovative packaging, California Crema sets itself apart from other avocado options on the market.

“Feedback on GEMs has always been through-the-roof positive, so we are very bullish on their potential to wow nationwide,” said John Dmytriw, Index Fresh Vice President of Business Development. “They perform outstanding in taste tests and have distinctive qualities like gold-flecking and an easy-to-peel skin. The new California Crema brand draws consumers into this limited release offering, with stand-out marketing that educates and creates excitement around the GEM variety that we are proud to have helped put on the map.”

“Rich, creamy avocados are already staples of California cuisine and the go-to ingredient for restaurants and home chefs that want to deliver on exceptional flavor,” said Kellen Stailey Martin, Index Fresh Vice President of Marketing. “The market is ripe for a delicious new variety that sparks excitement and pays attention to the rising consumer demand for more environmentally mindful packaging. California Crema brings all these key elements to life and partners with farmers who have invested years in cultivating a promotable level for the 2025 crop.” 

GEM avocados are often associated with farming practices that strive to minimize their environmental impact, like growing on compact trees that have a more dense and efficient fruit set, producing more within a smaller footprint. The fruit grows inside the lush canopy where they are insulated from direct sun and more resilient to extreme weather. The California Crema program also harnesses sustainable initiatives through incorporating recyclable paper film, certified home-compostable PLUs and net bags, and biodegradable cartons into the product line. “We are excited that California Crema will elevate the GEM variety’s already beneficial farming practices with packaging designed to reduce the environmental footprint,” Stailey Martin notes.

Contact your Index Fresh Sales Representative for more information on the California Crema bulk and bag programs and visit CaliforniaCremaAvocados.com learn more.

Index Fresh Kicks Off California Season Just in Time for Super Bowl Blitz

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Index Fresh, a global leader in avocado production and marketing, announces the kickoff of the California avocado season, perfectly timed to meet the high demand during the Super Bowl period. With its strong California grower base, Index Fresh is uniquely positioned to supplement the low inventories and support promotions.

The avocado market is currently experiencing significant challenges, with Mexican supply falling short of meeting regular weekly U.S. demand. This shortage coincides with pre-planned marketing campaigns promoting wellness and football festivities, creating a tight market situation.

California’s early start provides a crucial option for retailers and foodservice operators during this key avocado sales period. While California’s harvest won’t entirely replace Mexican volume, it will supplement the market, reducing dependency on Mexican imports as the source. John Dmytriw, VP of Business Development at Index Fresh, states, “We’re excited to begin packing California avocados. This season’s crop is looking exceptional and will make a positive impact in the U.S. market. Buyers can look forward to a consistent and high-quality supply.”

Index Fresh’s strong California grower base gives the company a distinct advantage in accessing and supplying high-quality avocados. This established network allows Index Fresh to respond swiftly to market demands and ensure a steady supply during critical periods.

Crop Outlook and Availability

  • Expected Yield: California anticipates an above-average crop, estimating 375 million pounds for the 2025 season – an 8% increase year-over-year.
  • Season Duration: The 2025 California avocado season is projected to run through September, while supplies last.

“Our deep roots in avocado marketing and extensive California grower relationships enable us to deliver premium avocados when the market needs them most,” adds Dmytriw.

About Index Fresh:

Index Fresh is a global marketer of avocados, sourcing from all major global growing regions, including California, Mexico, Peru, Chile, and Colombia. Through its dedication to outstanding quality, consistency, and service, Index Fresh continues to be a leader in the industry as it has been for over 100 years. Headquartered in California, the company has facilities strategically located in Texas, Pennsylvania, Iowa, Ohio, Colorado, Illinois and Georgia. For more information, visit www.indexfresh.com

Empowering Futures: Index Fresh Launches Scholarship Programs for Employees and Their Families

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Index Fresh, a global leader in avocado production, distribution, and marketing, has announced the creation of two educational assistance programs that will benefit employees and their families. The company has launched Grove Scholars, a scholarship program for college-bound students, aimed at fostering generational growth and investing in the higher education of team members’ dependents.

Complementing this initiative, Index Fresh has introduced the Richard Pidduck Memorial Professional Development Award, offering financial reimbursement to employees pursuing advanced studies. These innovative programs underscore Index Fresh’s commitment to cultivating talent and investing in the future of produce professionals, both within its workforce and the next generation. 

Grove Scholars are selected through a rigorous process that evaluates scholastic achievement, extracurricular involvement, community service, references, and personal essays. Steve Roodzant, CEO of Index Fresh, emphasized the program’s significance: “By investing in these promising students, we’re not only shaping individual futures but also strengthening the foundations of our employees’ families and the communities we serve. The Grove Scholars program reflects our commitment to cultivating the next generation of leaders and innovators in our industry and beyond.”

The Richard Pidduck Memorial Professional Development Award, Index Fresh’s second educational initiative, honors the legacy of a revered agricultural leader, avocado grower, and educational advocate who passed away this year. Pidduck, a long-standing director on Index Fresh’s Board, was instrumental in shaping the California Ag Leadership Foundation through his passionate advocacy. Roodzant reflected on Pidduck’s impact: “Richard deeply understood the transformative power of education and its role in fostering leadership throughout one’s career. This new program not only commemorates Richard’s invaluable contributions to Index Fresh but also perpetuates his vision of continuous learning and professional growth in the agricultural sector.”

The inaugural class of Grove Scholars and Professional Development Award recipients were recognized on October 29, 2024, at Index Fresh’s End of Season BBQ. This annual event celebrates the conclusion of the California avocado season and highlights individual and team achievements. Winners were honored alongside their families during the company luncheon.

Index Fresh Hosts Cultural Seminar 27 to Gather California Growers for Postseason Presentations and Market Intelligence

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Irrigation and Pest Management Solutions will be Key Industry Takeaways from Traveling Three-Day Event Series on Oct. 23, 24 and 28

Index Fresh, a global leader in avocado marketing and distribution, announces its 27th annual Cultural Seminar series, set to take place across California’s prime avocado-growing regions in late October. This initiative brings together avocado growers, industry professionals, and subject matter experts to share knowledge and insights directly in the heart of cultivation areas. The seminars will be held from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 23 in San Luis Obispo, Thursday, Oct. 24 in Ventura, and Monday, Oct. 28 in Temecula.

“The seminar serves as a culminating event for California’s avocado industry, bringing together growers and stakeholders to reflect on the season. At Index Fresh, we take pride in facilitating this gathering, which not only provides valuable education but also fosters an environment for sharing knowledge and experiences,” said Keith Blanchard, Index Fresh Field Manager. “This event offers an ideal opportunity to analyze the past year’s challenges and successes, allowing us to collectively prioritize areas for improvement and strategically prepare for future seasons.”

“I look forward to these topical Index Fresh seminars,” commented Zach Rissel, Managing Partner & General Manager of La Patera Ranch. “As a grower, I need to be proactive, always learning, and building resilience for my operations. Index adds insights and brings together like minds in a productive way.”

An expert panel discussion on Practical Irrigation Technology will include a representative from Hunter Industries sprinkler systems, John Cornell of Cornell Orchards and Jim Brown of K & J Avocados. Blanchard will moderate the irrigation panel. 

Additional key subject matter will be Integrated Pest Management Solutions, including state of the science presentations from Tom Roberts of Integrated Consulting Entomology and PCA Enrico Ferro. The presentations will help growers stay ahead of common pest problems currently facing California avocados and provide key data points and solutions for protecting fruit quality and strengthening the long-term health and performance of avocado groves.

“When our growers are equipped with actionable information, it helps them produce a better crop,” Blanchard said. “That is when we all benefit up-and-down the avocado supply chain from the farmer to retailer to foodservice operator.”

Grower owned, Index Fresh holds a unique position in the avocado industry with a deep investment in fostering best farming practices. The company prides itself on gathering data and information from around the globe in order to increase efficiency and productivity for its growers and customers. Index Fresh continues to play a prominent role in advancing the industry’s goals by providing innovative tools to help growers overcome challenges and succeed.

Index Fresh Peruvian Avocado Programs Offer Attractive Fixed Pricing throughout Summer

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Early Commitments Lock-In Pricing and Payoff throughout the Peruvian Season.

Hass avocados from Peru will be prime for selling to US consumers in time for the 2024 backyard barbecue season. Customers of Index Fresh, a global avocado marketing and distribution company, can count on availability of the premium Peruvian harvest throughout summer with attractive fixed pricing available on fruit secured now as part of prebooked, season-long programs for retail and foodservice.

“We anticipate opportunities for an abundance of Peruvian avocados entering the US supply chain late this spring and throughout summer,” said Dalila Rivera, Index Fresh VP of Sourcing. “The timing of Peruvian avocado arrivals is slightly earlier this year and perfect both for filling in a rare supply gap on Mexican avocado imports and for the Peruvian harvest to add an important and competitive fruit source for our customers throughout the season.”

Index Fresh delivers consistent supply from their three main sourcing destinations during the summer months — California, Mexico, and Peru — which will balance the market and stabilize US supplies all summer. Peruvian fruit will hit its primary harvest starting the last week of May and promotable volumes will arrive in the US throughout the season and into September. 

“A consistent, reliable harvest of quality fruit from Peru in this window is important this year and will continue to be a significant piece of the US avocado supply puzzle during the summer months,” Rivera said. “It’s guacamole season and the Peruvian program brings another attractive option into the market to expand consumer choices. Ordering now incentivizes steady shipments into U.S. ports at the best pricing available.” 

Index Fresh procurement and sales teams are actively building programs that meet summer demand. Locking in prices now adds predictability to costs and secures volumes at competitive rates that are stable throughout the summer season. Contact your Index Fresh Sales Representative today to take advantage of Peru’s avocado offering.

Index Fresh 2024 GEM Avocado Programs are Ready for Retail

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GEM Avocados’ Expand Category for Avo-Hungry Consumers Seeking Value & Variety

Index Fresh, California’s largest shipper of GEM avocados, kicks off their 2024 GEM season with an abundant crop poised to deliver quality and value to retailers and foodservice providers across North America. Gold-flecked GEM avocados will be available for a limited time from April to mid July, presenting retailers the unique opportunity to merchandise both size and variety at shelf. In addition, Index Fresh has partnered with several California banners to bolster their locally grown programs and educate consumers on the buttery, nutty flavor profile and sustainable growing practices of the Californian GEM.  

“Index Fresh is about giving our customers choices, so we always get excited when California GEMs are offered alongside Hass,” said Bobby Fingerlin, Index Fresh Sales and Business Development team member. “We recently showcased 2-count and 3-count value-added GEM bags at the Viva Fresh Expo and received very positive feedback on the value and packaging that differentiates our GEMs at retail; our new label includes call outs on flavor, texture and their California origin.”

California is expected to produce over 5 million pounds of GEM in the 2024 season spanning from early spring to July, likely peaking in May. The dark-skinned GEMs are harvested with a clean uniformity that stands out at retail. Their characteristic creamy texture, outstanding eating quality and slightly nutty notes impresses selective taste buds. The fruit’s thicker skin has an advantage of being easier to peel, so scooping out all the creamy flesh for perfect salad slices or a generous bowl of guacamole is never a hassle.

Index Fresh pioneered the promotion of GEM avocados, advising growers on how to care for the trees, harvest their fruit and market it in a way that emphasizes the unique appeal.  “GEM was selected as a standout fruit by researchers at University of California and has a very localized sustainability story. The fruit grows on smaller trees, allowing for a higher yield within a smaller footprint, which makes it a good choice for eco-conscious California growers and consumers. You know where the fruit came from, and that’s never too far away from home for shoppers in the Golden State,” said Keith Blanchard, Index Fresh Field Manager.

“Whether packaged in our Index Fresh bags or sold individually in 25 lb. lugs, GEMs have performed well with consumers, and as a variety, continues to grow every year,” Fingerlin says. “When customers can choose their avocado from among a couple of different sizes or packs, they land on a choice that fits their needs and fully satisfies.”

Index Fresh’s Clean Eating Challenge Mentor Highlights Health at 2024 Viva Fresh Expo

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Susie Rea shares how Index Fresh promotes healthy choices for the industry and planet

Index Fresh’s Susie Rea is no stranger to setting goals and exceeding expectations at home and at the office. Perhaps it’s her sports background or the recent excitement around March Madness that inspires Susie to make the ‘assist’ that scores meaningful change towards a healthier lifestyle. In partnership with Viva Fresh, Susie and the Index Fresh team will be gathering at next week’s expo in Houston, Texas to promote this year’s Clean Eating Challenge, avocado category expansion opportunities and new sustainable packaging solutions. 

Rea, a Viva Fresh Clean Eating Challenge participant in 2022, stepped up in this year’s Challenge to serve on a select team of Mentors, coaching industry peers looking to tap into clean eating and wellness through movement and diet. “Anyone aiming to have a healthful balanced diet can lean into avocados, because they pack a nutritional punch with an abundance of potassium, healthy fats, and dietary fiber,” says Rea. “Best of all, they taste great and are versatile, so you can plan a healthy breakfast, lunch, or dinner around avocados. I, along with other ‘Challenge Champions’, take advantage of Viva Fresh as a forum to share how we’ve adopted healthier lifestyles, starting with eating more of what we grow and sell while celebrating our wellness wins along the way.”

Viva Fresh also serves up the perfect opportunity for the industry to talk with Index Fresh about their seasonal GEM avocado program that kicks off this month. “Gold-flecked GEM avocados deliver all the healthy nutrients of the beloved Hass, but with a larger size and slightly nuttier flavor. GEMs bring bonus value, variety, and taste to the category,” commented Rea. In addition to its health benefits GEMs are also a sustainable choice for growers looking to increase yields, reduce water displacement and achieve greater efficiency during harvest. The GEM variety provides a great option for retailers who are looking for a seasonal program of premium, sustainably grown, fruit marketed now through the end of July to expand the avocado category.

AvoTerra avocados

Rounding out Index Fresh’s expo line up, the company will be introducing their new cellulose packaging for their bagged organic and conventional AvoTerra line. The cellulose bag is made of 100% paper, scoring major points with retailers and consumers alike. Both 100% recyclable and compostable, promoting the sustainable packaging alternative is just one more way Index Fresh is dedicated to a healthy lifestyle positively impacting people and the planet. 

To chat with Susie and the team about Index Fresh’s healthy highlights, stop by Booth 117 on April 13th at Viva Fresh Expo. 

Avocado + Sweet Potato Add Up To A Newly Nutritious, Delicious, And Versatile Twist On The Mother’s Day Menu

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Index Fresh and Bako Sweet champion the combined benefits of high-quality California-grown avocados and sweet potatoes 

Moms spend their lives finding ways to fill their children with nutritious snacks and meals. This year, California-grown sweet potatoes and avocados on the Mother’s Day brunch table can go a long way to returning the favor with superb flavor and nutrient-dense dishes. 

Index Fresh and Bako Sweet have been collaborating to emphasize and reiterate the simple message from Mom that quality counts in food choices. Both California companies pride themselves on providing consistent quality produce to consumers and building strong relationships based on reliability and adding value. The companies are teaming up for sweet potato and avocado giveaways through Instagram @avoterra_by_indexfresh and @bakosweet. 

“Collaborating with Country Sweet Produce and the Bako Sweet brand to raise awareness about healthy menu options is a great place to be for Index Fresh and the Avoterra brand. Both companies have a rich history in California’s agriculture space, and like Index Fresh, Country Sweet Produce is dedicated to bringing healthy, top-quality produce to family dinner tables worldwide,” said John Dmytriw, Index Fresh Vice President of Business Development. 

In recent years, avocados have become a global icon and consumer favorite with U.S. consumption doubling over the past 10 years. Not to be outdone, sweet potatoes are on the rise with 33 percent of households reporting purchasing them in the last year, and home cooks have gravitated toward air-fried sweet potatoes as an easy and tasty meal. 

“Avocados from Index Fresh and sweet potatoes from the Bako Sweet family are a great way to guarantee quality ingredients and thoughtfulness for mom. A major perk for menu-building with avocados and sweet potatoes is the compatibility of these nutritional powerhouses that are Whole 30 and Keto friendly, low-carb options, and special requirements for any health-conscious Mother’s Day guests,” said Sofia Castellanos, Director of Marketing and Advertising for Index Fresh. 

California avocados are in season now so show that special someone how much you care this Mother’s Day. Bako Sweet grows its sweet potatoes in “California’s Sweet Spot” on the family farm in Bakersfield, an area known for having some of the best soils in the world. 

“We are able to provide retailers with consistent, fresh, and quality sweet potatoes year-round!” said Alexandra Molumby, Director of Marketing for Bako Sweet. “We love the newfound consumer-driven trend to pair crispy toasted sweet potato with creamy avocado. It’s a crowd-pleaser and bends to both sweet and savory flavor profiles for ultimate versatility.” 

Both California sweet potatoes and avocados are rich in potassium and important vitamins while being low in the glycemic index and high in fiber. Both are indicated as positive contributors to heart health and an overall healthy diet and lifestyle.