Port Wilmington has extended its supply chain services agreement with Chiquita Brands, continuing a partnership that spans 37 years. This long-term agreement solidifies Port Wilmington as Chiquita's largest North American operation, regularly supplying bananas, pineapples, along other tropical fruits and vegetables to over 200 million consumers.
The port, operated by Enstructure, accommodates weekly vessel calls from Chiquita. Bayard Hogans, the regional president for the Mid-Atlantic, stated, "Much of their Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Canadian volumes move through the Port of Wilmington here." He emphasized the role this plays in container movements, local employment, and supply chain positions around the port.
The extended agreement also signals Chiquita's confidence in the port's infrastructural advancements. Hogan remarked on the progress, saying, "Year-over-year, man-hours are up here in the port." He indicated efforts not only to maintain current partnerships but also to explore cargo diversification potential.
In conjunction with this agreement, the port aims to enhance its cargo throughput to support employment opportunities consistently throughout the year.
Source: Delaware Public