Grape category leader Sun World International has moved their packing operations in-house, where they will pack a significant portion of their California grown product. In addition to Sun World’s facility location in Bakersfield, lines are installed in their partner facilities, La Jolla, Alta Vista, and Blanc, to allow the ability to pack in-house throughout the season.
Sun World has taken a phased-in approach with installation, with four lines currently functioning and the final installment of three lines projected to be complete the last week of September.
“The investments being made by Sun World and our partners in this infrastructure are driving new innovation for our customers, the opportunity to differentiate themselves, and drive more margin and growth to the category,” Vice President of Domestic Sales Jason Fuller said.
More benefits of the new packing operations include improved quality control, more flexibility on pack styles, and ability to pack to order at scale.
The new packing operations will be led by Director of In-House Packing Cecilia Rivera and Operations Manager Ted Yukawa. Both Cecilia and Ted have joined the Sun World team as of May 2018, bringing to the organization advanced management styles that focus on worker empowerment and training, as well as driving the highest level of efficiency and waste reduction.
