Del Monte to invest $22m into New Jersey distributon facility

Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A., is expected to expand its extensive United States’ logistics network upon the closing set for May 20, 2017 for the site of the former AstroPower building, currently owned by Christina School District, located at 300 Executive Drive, Pencader Industrial Park in New Castle with assistance provided by the Delaware Strategic Fund.

Last week the Council on Development Finance approved the recommendation for a $259,000 performance grant to create approximately 30 jobs for the site of Del Monte Fresh Produce’s newest and most advanced distribution center, and a three percent (3%) match up to $654,000 for qualified capital expenditures.

Del Monte Fresh Produce will invest approximately $22 million in its new facility and expansion into the Delaware community. “We’re glad that Del Monte Fresh Produce chose Delaware as the strategic location to expand its operations,” Governor John Carney said. “We’re very much looking forward to seeing the former site of AstroPower repurposed and come alive again, bringing with it new jobs to our state.”

“We’re excited to commence our operation in the state of Delaware and tap into the workforce of the most populous county in the state with close proximity to the University of Delaware,” said Paul Rice, Senior Vice President, N.A. Operations.

The new 178,000 sq. ft. distribution center in Pencader Industrial Park will add a key distribution point in the Company’s growing logistics network in North America and especially in the Northeast. The new facility will have an extensive infrastructure for the cutting and production of fresh fruit, vegetables and other food products.

When completed the distribution center will, among other things, have a fresh cut fruit, protein salad, and commissary production area, banana and avocado ripening rooms, refrigerated and dry warehouse space, loading docks, and office space.

“We want to express our appreciation to all the partners who came together on this project to bring Del Monte Fresh Produce to Delaware,” said Delaware Economic Development Office Director Bernice Whaley.

For more information:
Christina Dirksen
Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO)
Tel: +1 302 672 6857
Christina.Dirksen@state.de.us

Dionysios (Dennis) Christou
Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A., Inc.
dchristou@freshdelmonte.com
Tel: +1 305 520 8400