Calavo Growers, a leader in the procurement and marketing of fresh and processed avocados, along with Agrícola Belher, a prominent producer of fresh tomatoes and other vegetables, are marking 17 years of successful partnership.
The celebration highlights the launch of their co-branded tomato program, which promises high-quality tomatoes available year-round from two key regions in Mexico. According to a recent announcement reported by The Packer, this partnership combines expertise from both companies to deliver tomatoes to the North American market, enhancing both product quality and availability.
The co-branded tomato program features vine-ripened rounds, romas, and mature greens cultivated in Culiacan, Mexico, during the winter and spring, and in the Mexican state of Jalisco throughout the year.
This collaboration dates back to 2007 when the companies first combined efforts to expand Calavo’s seasonal tomato offerings from Sinaloa, Mexico. By 2015, they had established a campus of greenhouses in Jalisco, known as Agrícola Don Memo, enabling year-round production and a continuous supply chain.
Agrícola Belher, founded by Rosario Beltrán in 1988, is not only known for its quality produce but also for its commitment to sustainability and technological innovation in agriculture.
The company has been recognized as one of the top 50 socially responsible companies in Mexico. “We are committed to quality, the latest technology, and the highest food safety standards. Calavo shares that commitment, allowing us to offer the finest tomatoes to our customers in North America,” stated Beltrán.
The leadership at Agrícola Belher, including Beltrán’s sons Antonio and Juan Carlos, continues to explore new sustainable techniques for tomato cultivation.
The partnership’s focus on sustainability has yielded significant benefits, including higher crop yields on less land, reduced energy and water usage, and an integrated pest management system that minimizes environmental impact.
Moreover, Agrícola Belher is dedicated to enhancing the lives of its employees and their families by providing free housing, food, educational services, and childcare. Their community development centers offer a range of programs aimed at social and intellectual growth, encompassing education, health, sports, and addiction prevention.
Mike Browne, Executive Vice President of Sales and Operations for Calavo, commented on the synergy between the tomato and avocado products, noting that they are often merchandised together in the produce department and are increasingly featured in growing foodservice menu offerings. “Nutritionally, the duo of products create what is often referred to as ‘food synergy’, a term that identifies combining specific foods together to maximize their nutritional and health benefits,” said Browne.
In a strategic move to further strengthen their market position, Calavo has recently restructured its tomato sales team. Kurt Kistler, with over 25 years of experience in the fresh produce industry, joined Calavo in November 2023 as Vice President of Tomato Sales. Kistler now leads a team of seasoned professionals, including Irene Amezaga, Jonathan Barbarine, and Alexa Stone, ensuring the continued success and expansion of Calavo’s tomato operations.
This enduring partnership between Calavo and Agrícola Belher exemplifies how collaboration and commitment to quality, sustainability, and community can drive success in the produce industry. As reported by The Packer, both companies look forward to continuing their shared mission of delivering exceptional produce to markets across North America.
