Expecting to double volumes on its products to meet heightened demand during upcoming international sports tournaments, Fresh Del Monte’s operations in the Middle East have completed a new fresh-cut facility, the company said.
The facility in Doha, Qatar is a joint venture between Fresh Del Monte and Doha National Food Industries W.L.L, a fully owned company of Al Watania International Holdings P.Q.S.C. It will supply a global quick service restaurant with fresh juice, fresh cut fruits, fresh cut veggies, freshly prepared sandwiches and freshly prepared salad bowls.
The typical volume for the region is 15,000 tons per month, which is expected to double during the next few months, according to Fresh Del Monte. The new facility will be able to produce five tons of shredded lettuce and 3 tons of other vegetables per day; 2,400 liters of freshly squeezed juice per day; and the kitchen will produce 500 to 750 salads, sandwiches and snacks per hour, the company said.
Construction of the facility, encompassing 2,200 square meters, began in October 2021 and was finished in September 2022. The commissioning of the leaf line was set up within three weeks, which included the equipment becoming operational and all audits being passed, according to the company.