Dole Fresh Fruit Celebrates Established Foothold and Teases Announcement in Lead Up to Southern Innovations; Bil Goldfield Discusses

CHARLOTTE, NC - Dole Fresh Fruit continues to enter new worlds of innovation, with much to share for visitors of this week’s Southern Innovations, hosted by Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The fruit provider is looking forward to showcasing its ever-expanding tropical produce portfolio while keeping additional news close to the vest.

“We have a big announcement reflecting Dole’s strategy of being part of lifestyles where fresh, fun, and sustainability come together,” Bil Goldfield, Director of Corporate Communications, shared. “We look forward to sharing more on that soon!”

In addition to discussing all things tropical fruit, sales representatives from the company are excited to connect with other produce professionals at the show to discuss how Dole is investing in innovative ways to substantiate sustainability efforts, such as packaging enhancements and shipping solutions.

“Southern Innovations is a great opportunity to connect with brands like Dole, who are shaping the future of fresh produce, especially in the Southeastern U.S. market. We see a strong regional growth in organics as well, so participating in an event that taps into current trends and insights while connecting with our counterparts is incredibly important,” Bil said of the importance of the event. “Additionally, Charlotte has been home to Dole’s U.S. headquarters for a few years, and we’re very excited to welcome industry professionals to the Queen City!”

The event lines up well with Dole’s Ecuadorian mango season, which begins in October.

“With the added advantage of controlling transportation in our own Dole vessels, delivering the highest-quality, juiciest mangos to market is smoother and more efficient than ever for our partners,” Bil shared, explaining that the company’s mango program is growing​ steadily both in conventional and organic offerings. “Our biggest strength by far is our multiple-country sourcing. At the same time, our lime program is gaining impressive traction in the U.S. Northeast, and we look forward to expanding our reach to other places in the U.S.”

2025 has been a great year for Dole Fresh Fruit overall thus far. The company continues to lead the tropicals market with determination and resilience, despite global challenges impacting the banana and pineapple categories, according to Bil.

“This year, we’ve laid strong foundations for 2026,” he concluded. “We can’t wait to showcase an upcoming item that’s sure to revolutionize the industry, upholding Dole’s position as tropical fruit vanguards.”

Attendees will find this and more when they visit Dole at booth #513. As we continue to report from the floor of Southern Innovations and beyond, follow AndNowUKnow for all the latest.