Company overview

Dole supplies grocery stores, wholesalers and foodservice operators with fresh fruit and vegetables, including products sold under the DOLE brand. Its diversified produce businesses account for most revenue, with Europe its largest segment; bananas, pineapples and other tropical fruit provide the other major source. Although Dole has sold its former Fresh Vegetables division, its diversified businesses still sell vegetables.

Dole combines produce from its own and leased farms with purchases from independent growers. It grows and sources bananas and pineapples mainly in Latin America, while its broader produce businesses combine local seasonal crops with imports from other growing regions. Packing houses, refrigerated ships, cold storage and distribution centers help move the harvest to customers before it spoils. In some European markets, Dole also works with grocery retailers to manage their produce offerings or entire in-store produce categories.

The business depends on securing crops and transport, then selling perishable produce at prices that cover sourcing and delivery costs. Short shelf life can force sales even when prices are unfavorable. No single customer dominates total sales, but some regions rely on a small group of large customers. Food-safety, import and labeling requirements govern what Dole can distribute; missing approvals or failing to comply can stop production or distribution.