US-based Calavo Growers has announced that it has created FreshRealm, a technology company which connects participants such as traditional retailers, enterprises, communities and food banks to a network of regional fresh food producers.
Calavo will be the majority shareholder with a few key strategic minority partners. Further terms were not disclosed by the company.
While FreshRealm will not sell directly to consumers, it will serve as the engine that connects participants to a network of regional fresh food producers.
FreshRealm is being led by Michael R Lippold, Calavo's director of Strategic Development.
Calavo chairman, president and chief executive officer Lee E Cole said that FreshRealm's strategic relationship with Calavo will allow FreshRealm to immediately operate as an institutionally backed company both financially and operationally.
Michael R Lippold said that fresh, healthy food should be more accessible in every corner of the country.
"There are no 'Internet deserts' in the United States. It is time for an end to fresh food deserts, too. We're excited to connect best-in-class fresh food and logic to enable that shift," Lippold added.
Calavo Growers noted that FreshRealm will allow fresh food businesses to do their job more effectively, while lowering food waste.
Founded in 1924, Calavo Growers is a processed avocado products manufacturer and distributor. The company also procures and markets diversified fresh produce items, ranging from tomatoes to tropical produce.
