Produce leader’s expanded Ecuador program strengthens year-round coverage and opportunities in organics.

CHARLOTTE, NC – October 9, 2025 – Dole Food Company will spotlight the strength, reliability, and growth opportunity of its mango program at the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) Global Show in Anaheim October 17-18. With its unmatched expertise, sourcing logistics and supply chain control, Dole is uniquely positioned to help retailers elevate their mango programs for the year ahead.

“We are very excited to start our second Ecuadorian mango season,” said Rodrigo Velasquez, Dole’s District Sales Manager. “We received great feedback from customers last year, and to answer demand we are increasing our Ecuadorian volume this season.”

Dole’s program offers a unique range of varieties grown in Ecuador starting with Ataulfos followed by Tommy Atkins, Hadens, and in later season Kents and Keitts.

“While the season is shorter than Peru or Mexico, Ecuador’s concentrated harvest creates a November window ideal for promotional planning, “ added Velasquez.

Organic Tommy Atkins mangos will also be available, allowing retailers to maintain momentum in organics between the California Keitt and Peruvian Kent seasons.

The most recent industry forecast projects Ecuador’s 2025 mango season at 12.2 million boxes, approximately 17 percent lower than last year. Brazil’s season is expected to reach 9.6 million boxes, though recent U.S. tariffs make meeting those volumes uncertain, while Mexico has already finished one of its fastest seasons in recent years with 95.4 million boxes, up 6 percent year over year. Peru is preparing for a slightly delayed start in December due to later flowering but is expected to continue shipping through April with its hallmark Kent variety.

Ecuador’s shipping dynamics, characterized by a rapid surge in volume followed by a quick decline, create challenges for many importers. Dole overcomes these obstacles with its own vessels and dedicated port terminals in San Diego, California and Wilmington, Delaware. This guarantees space, reduces transit times, and provides retailers with reliable weekly arrivals. By combining mango shipments with other Dole tropical items, customers also gain the advantage of efficient logistics and access to full-load pricing even with smaller orders.

Dole’s current Ecuador program transitions seamlessly into Peru’s season, ensuring retailers have dependable coverage throughout the winter and spring months. With premium sourcing, state-of-the-art ripening, and a focus on organics, Dole delivers consistent quality and execution across origins.

“Ecuador will become an even more relevant origin for U.S. mango retailers in 2025 and beyond,” added Velasquez. “With Dole’s programs, retailers can plan promotions with confidence, knowing the fruit will be there, on time, and in excellent condition.”

Rodrigo Velasquez and other DOLE® Mango program representatives will be available at the Dole booth #2838 at the IFPA Global Show.

About Dole Food Company

Dole Food Company, part of Dole plc, is one of the world’s largest producers and marketers of high-quality fresh fruit and fresh vegetables. Dole is an industry leader in many of the products it sells, as well as in nutrition education. For more information, please visit www.dole.com.