Exhibiting at Asia Fruit Logistica 2025

Calavo Growers, Inc. is a publicly traded produce company based in Santa Paula, California, with a legacy dating back to 1924. As one of the most prominent marketers and distributors of avocados and other fresh and prepared food products in the United States, Calavo has built a vertically integrated supply chain that connects growers and consumers across global markets.

Company Overview

• Founded: 1924
• Headquarters: Santa Paula, California, USA
• Stock Listing: NASDAQ: CVGW
• CEO (2024): Lecil E. Cole
• Employees: Over 3,500 globally
• Revenue (FY 2023): USD $1.06 billion
• Operations: United States, Mexico, Canada, Asia, and Europe

Calavo has evolved from an avocado growers' cooperative into a global leader in fresh produce marketing and fresh food processing. The company is structured around three primary business segments: Fresh Products, RFG (Renaissance Food Group), and Foods.

Core Business Segments

1. Fresh Products

Calavo is one of the largest global distributors of fresh avocados and related fresh produce. Key offerings include:

• Hass Avocados (conventional and organic)
• Hawaiian Papayas
• Tomatoes
• Seasonal fresh produce

In 2023, Calavo handled over 600 million pounds of avocados, sourced from California, Mexico, and Peru.

2. RFG (Renaissance Food Group)

Acquired in 2011, RFG is a key driver of Calavo’s value-added strategy. This division focuses on:

• Pre-packaged fresh-cut fruits and vegetables
• Prepared meals and deli items
• Branded and private-label retail products

RFG products are distributed under the Garden Highway and Chef Essentials brands and sold in major U.S. grocery chains and club stores.

3. Foods Segment

This segment specializes in prepared avocado products including:

• Guacamole (classic, spicy, chunky, organic)
• Avocado pulp for foodservice and retail
• Frozen avocado products

With advanced production facilities in Mexico, this segment leverages Calavo’s sourcing strengths and global cold chain capabilities.

Global Sourcing and Supply Chain

• Growing Regions: California, Mexico (Michoacán and Jalisco), Peru, Chile
• Production Facilities: Santa Paula (CA), Uruapan (Mexico), and other RFG sites in the U.S.
• Cold Chain Logistics: Integrated ripening, packaging, and distribution systems
• Retail Partners: Walmart, Kroger, Costco, Whole Foods, Safeway, and major foodservice distributors

Calavo’s vertically integrated model ensures complete control over product traceability, quality standards, and year-round availability.

Financial Performance (FY 2023)

• Net Revenue: $1.06 billion
• Gross Profit: $100.2 million
• Operating Income: $18.6 million
• EBITDA Margin: 4.2%
• Fresh Products Segment Revenue: $600M+
• RFG Segment Revenue: $370M+

These figures underscore the company’s strong position in both raw and value-added produce markets.

Sustainability and Certifications

Calavo has adopted a comprehensive sustainability framework focused on:

• Waste reduction and energy efficiency in its facilities
• Sustainable agriculture practices in collaboration with growers
• Employee safety and welfare programs

Certifications and standards include:

• GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative)
• SQF (Safe Quality Food certification)
• USDA Organic
• Fair Trade Certified avocados (select suppliers)

Calavo is also included in ESG assessments by rating organizations and participates in ethical sourcing programs with retail partners.

Key Markets and Distribution

• North America: USA (main market), Canada
• Asia-Pacific: Japan, South Korea
• Europe: Germany, United Kingdom
• Latin America: Select distribution in Mexico and Chile

Calavo products are found in over 25,000 retail outlets and foodservice establishments globally.

Partnerships and Brand Portfolio

• Calavo: Flagship brand for fresh and packaged avocados
• Garden Highway: Fresh-cut fruit, vegetables, and prepared meals
• Chef Essentials: Foodservice-oriented fresh meal kits and produce

Strategic partnerships with retailers and foodservice channels help Calavo deliver consistent supply and innovation to its end users.

Industry Recognition

• Ranked among top 5 avocado suppliers globally
• Regularly featured in Fresh Produce Journal, The Packer, and Progressive Grocer
• Cited in World Benchmarking Alliance for progress in sustainable food systems

Strategic Vision

Calavo’s growth strategy focuses on:

• Expanding value-added product lines
• Strengthening operational efficiency through automation and AI in sorting/ripening
• Deepening grower relationships to ensure quality and supply stability
• Enhancing global presence through digital traceability and logistics optimization

Calavo Growers, Inc. continues to be a benchmark for quality, reliability, and innovation in the global fresh produce sector, with an unwavering commitment to sustainability and excellence in every avocado, papaya, and prepared product it delivers.