History of Dole
Dole plc, originally founded in 1851 as Castle & Cooke in Hawaii, is one of the world's largest producers and marketers of fresh fruits and vegetables. The company became closely associated with the pineapple and banana industries after acquiring the Hawaiian Pineapple Company, founded in 1901 by James Dole. Over the decades, Dole expanded its agricultural operations globally, establishing plantations in Latin America and Asia while pioneering advancements in fruit production, packaging, and distribution.
Throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, Dole has undergone various ownership changes, including a period under Castle & Cooke before becoming an independent entity. The company has faced controversies related to labor practices and environmental concerns but has also implemented sustainability initiatives to improve its global impact. In 2021, Dole merged with Total Produce to form Dole plc, further strengthening its position in the global fresh produce market. Today, Dole remains a major player in the industry, supplying fruits and vegetables to retailers and consumers worldwide.