Longstanding partnership supports fresh produce imports, refrigerated shipping and global trade through Freeport, Texas
FREEPORT, Texas (June 2, 2026) — Port Freeport is recognizing 30 years of continuous operations with Chiquita Brands International and Great White Fleet, a milestone that highlights the companies’ long-standing role in global trade, refrigerated shipping and the reliable movement of fresh produce through one of Texas’ leading maritime gateways.
For three decades, Chiquita and Great White Fleet have maintained weekly operations at Port Freeport, supporting the import of fresh fruit into the United States and the export of perishable cargo and dry commodities to Central America. The collaboration has contributed to supply chain reliability, job creation and the continued growth of Freeport as a key gateway for international commerce.
“The longevity of this collaboration reflects a shared commitment to reliability and performance that supports supply chains across the United States and strengthens connections to international markets,” said Rob Giesecke, Chairman of the Port Freeport Commission. “We are honored to recognize this milestone and look forward to many more years of collaboration and growth.”
Chiquita and Great White Fleet Strengthen Cold-Chain Logistics at Port Freeport
The 30-year milestone underscores the importance of Port Freeport’s role in supporting cold-chain logistics and global produce distribution. Chiquita and Great White Fleet’s continued operations at the port help ensure fresh fruit and other perishable goods move efficiently from international markets to communities across the United States.
The partnership supports:
- Reliable weekly delivery of fresh fruit through Port Freeport
- Refrigerated cargo movement serving U.S. consumer markets
- Export opportunities for perishable cargo and dry commodities
- Stable jobs at Port Freeport and throughout the broader supply chain
- Stronger trade connections between the United States and Central America
“Chiquita and Great White Fleet are proud of our 30-year relationship with Port Freeport and look forward to its continued growth supporting the import of fresh produce into the United States and the export of perishable cargo and dry commodities to Central America,” said Manrique Bermudez, Director of Logistics for Chiquita.
Chiquita Horizon Marks Continued Investment in Modern Fleet Capabilities
The milestone is further highlighted by the Chiquita Horizon, which made its inaugural U.S. call at Port Freeport in September 2025. The vessel reflects Chiquita and Great White Fleet’s continued investment in modern fleet capabilities designed to support advanced refrigerated shipping, cold-chain reliability and evolving global trade requirements.
As demand grows for efficient, resilient and sustainable logistics solutions, Port Freeport’s infrastructure and location continue to support companies moving time-sensitive cargo through the Gulf Coast.
“Port Freeport is proud to celebrate Chiquita’s 30-year cooperation and the meaningful impact they have made through the reliable weekly delivery of fresh fruit to our communities with a focus on sustainability,” said Phyllis Saathoff, Executive Director and CEO of Port Freeport. “Their operations are supporting families with stable jobs here at Port Freeport and abroad.”
Port Freeport Builds on a Century of Maritime Growth
The 30-year collaboration with Chiquita and Great White Fleet follows Port Freeport’s centennial year in 2025, bringing together a century of maritime heritage with decades of successful public-private collaboration.
As Port Freeport continues enhancing infrastructure and expanding its capabilities, partnerships with global logistics leaders remain central to advancing trade, supporting regional economic growth and delivering long-term value to customers, communities and supply chains.
About Port Freeport
Port Freeport is a leading port in the export of crude oil and natural gas liquids and ranks sixth nationally in chemicals, 13th in total foreign waterborne tonnage and fourth in the State of Texas by the same measure. A 2022 Economic Impact Study by Texas A&M Transportation Institute found that the Freeport Harbor Channel generates 266,300 jobs nationally and has a total economic output of $157.3 billion.
Port Freeport serves Alliera, Atlantic Container Lines, AMPORTS, BASF, Chiquita Fresh N.A., Dole Fresh Fruit, The Dow Chemical Company, Enterprise Products Partners, ExxonMobil, Freeport LNG, Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Glovis, Grimaldi Lines, Hoegh Autoliners, Kirby Marine, Liberty Global Logistics, Linde, MEGlobal, NYK RORO, Phillips 66, Riviana Foods, Inc., Sallaum Lines, Tenaris, U.S. Department of Energy, Volkswagen Group of America and Vulcan Materials Company.
About Chiquita Brands International, Inc.
Chiquita Brands International is a leading global produce company committed to providing consumers and customers across nearly 70 countries with high-quality fruit and service. For more than 150 years, Chiquita has produced great-tasting, premium-quality bananas and has built Chiquita® into one of the world’s most recognized produce brands.
Through its “Behind the Blue Sticker” initiative, Chiquita aims to create a positive impact by advancing sustainability throughout its business practices. The iconic Chiquita Blue Sticker represents quality, fun, sustainable farming, biodiversity and support for the communities where Chiquita bananas are grown.
Chiquita was recognized as a 2025 Good Housekeeping Snack Award winner, underscoring the brand’s strong connection with consumers and its long-standing reputation for trust and quality. Chiquita® bananas are fat-free and provide a source of potassium, fiber and vitamin B6. To learn more, visit www.chiquita.com and follow Chiquita on Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
About Great White Fleet Corporation
Great White Fleet is a leading logistics partner for refrigerated shipping, dedicated to keeping the global flow of goods moving seamlessly. With more than a century and a half of maritime expertise, the company provides end-to-end logistics solutions supported by a modern fleet and an experienced team.
From bridging continents to supporting local livelihoods, Great White Fleet’s mission is centered on reliability, customer service and operational excellence. Today, leading organizations trust Great White Fleet to manage critical supply chain needs. For more information, visit www.greatwhitefleet.com.
Chiquita® is a trademark or registered trademark of Chiquita Brands L.L.C. in the U.S. and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
