The multinational is to relocate its western U.S. Gulf operation to the Texan port in 2024 after its Velasco Container Terminal added more than 500 reefer plugs.
“Port Freeport Commission expresses thanks to the Del Monte and Port teams who have worked diligently in making this partnership materialize. This partnership will create positive economic impacts for our district,” said Port Commissioner Chairman Ravi Singhania. “Del Monte will be a great addition to our community with their commitment to the environment and their goal of working towards a sustainable future.”
Del Monte also has marine operations in the following U.S. ports: Port Hueneme, California, Port Manatee, Florida and Gloucester, Pennsylvania. After the relocation, Port Freeport will be the only U.S. port with the “big three” multinational green fruit importers at the same terminal.
Del Monte will deploy newly constructed fully cellular vessels to Port Freeport. The vessels in the service are designed with a carrying capacity of 634 reefer units. In 2020 and 2021, Del Monte launched six fuel-efficient vessels with the latest emission reduction technology in order to reduce emissions from vessel shipping and achieve the company’s 2030 sustainability goals. Del Monte was one of the first large-scale banana companies to receive SCS Carbon Neutral Certification for banana operations in Costa Rica.
