Mission Produce's New Packing Facility Undergoes Construction
Mission Produce is revealing early construction progress on its new packing facility in Oxnard, California. The new building will serve as Mission’s avocado packing facility as well as a ripening and forward distribution center.
President and CEO, Steve Barnard said, “As avocado consumption continues to increase at double digit growth, Mission’s facilities also need to expand to handle the added volume, whether it be local growth, imports or exports. This new facility will definitely take us to the next level, in addition to being energy efficient.”
By the end of 2014, the Mission site will offer 180,000 square feet of new construction including 40,000 square feet of conditioned production space, according to a press release. The facility will have the capacity for more than 6,000 high cube pallets with segregation capabilities by temperature or commodity.
Mission VP of Engineering & Process Improvement, Jake Nixon said, “The new Oxnard Packing Facility and Forward Distribution and Ripening Center has all of the newest fruit handling technology, energy efficient systems and operational efficiencies making it one of the most modern in the country.”
Facility Construction Manager, Brady Andresen added, “The property has been designed for Mission’s success with food safety, operational efficiency, and future expansion being key factors in our planning.”
In addition, forced air cooling along with 20 refrigerated docks will ensure the highest level of cooling and cold storage inside the facility. The project has been designed with the most energy efficient systems available including state-of-the-art refrigeration and controls, as well as full LED lighting and lighting controls. The rooftop will be equipped with a 1 mega watt solar energy system to power the facility, as well.
The 20 acre property was the site of the old US Postal Annex - Distribution Center and was purchased by Mission in December, 2012. The company began demolition in February, 2013.
Completion of the operational packing plant and cooler areas are expected by early 2015. Construction of corporate offices will be the next phase of the project.
Mission, a global avocado packer-shipper, has operations in Mexico, Peru, Chile, New Zealand, Canada, The Netherlands and the United States.
Congratulations Mission, on your continuing evolution in the fresh produce industry.
