Charlotte Welcomes Dole Food Company’s New Headquarters
Exciting news is steaming out of Charlotte, as Dole Food Company prepares to make a big move this summer! The iconic fruit and vegetable corporation, which has its roots in both Charlotte and Ireland, is relocating its American headquarters to the One South building at 101 S. Tryon next year. The buzz was confirmed in a recent news release issued by One South.
Room to Grow
This shift marks another chapter in Dole’s evolution. Just four years ago, the company made the leap from California to Charlotte and settled in a smaller space at 200 S. Tryon. Back then, they signed a lease for about 15,270 square feet, catering to around 50 employees. Now, fast forward to today, and Dole is boosting its size big time with an 11-year lease for a whopping 22,645 square feet at the gleaming new location. The extra square footage will not only give Dole more breathing room but is also a strategic move to strengthen their position in the Queen City.
A Strong Community Commitment
It certainly seems like Dole is here to stay! According to William Goldfield, Dole’s corporate communications director, this new office is all about fostering company culture and solidifying their ties to Charlotte’s eager community. Goldfield shared, “This new space will bring us together in a way that strengthens our company culture.” So, while we”re not sure if they will be bringing more job opportunities just yet, the more expansive environment certainly opens up possibilities!
Joining a Thriving Office Community
Dole isn’t the only player moving in. They’re becoming part of a dynamic community at One South, which is currently around 57% occupied. This modern skyscraper already features tenants like the national law firm Shumaker, The Siegfried Group, and Huntington National Bank, who recently expanded their footprint in the tower. And if that’s not enough, Charlotte is also set to welcome Krazy Curry, a much-anticipated Indian-Nepalese restaurant, opening early next year.
Revamped Spaces and Top-Notch Amenities
The renovations at One South are something to talk about! Managed by Trinity Partners and owned by Tourmaline Capital Partners out of New York City, the building has undergone remarkable upgrades amounting to more than $13 million. Just imagine this: a luxurious amenity space on the third floor, dubbed “Three”, where tenants can kick back and enjoy a cozy cafe, a high-tech connection lab featuring a 110-inch LED screen, gaming and golf simulators, plus an indoor/outdoor terrace with stunning views of Trade and Tryon streets.
Fitness Reimagined
One South has gone even further by reopening One Athletics, the former Charlotte Athletic Club. This revamped facility has been pumped up with a solid $2 million investment, introducing fantastic features such as a pickleball court, basketball court, and a suite of state-of-the-art exercise equipment. For those looking to unwind with fitness, this space has it all!
A Legacy in Charlotte
Dole’s connection to Charlotte isn’t just recent, as its roots trace back to 1985 when its parent company, Castle & Cooke, was acquired by billionaire David Murdock. Murdock’s relationship with the region has been strong, even founding the North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis. Though his control over Dole ended after a merger with Total Produce, the heart of the operation still beats strongly within Charlotte.
What’s Next for Dole?
Today, Dole Food Company stands proudly as one of the largest producers and marketers of fresh fruit worldwide, boasting revenues of around $2.5 billion. With this exciting move to One South, it looks like Dole is not just committed to growth, but also to fostering a strong community presence in the heart of Charlotte. The future is looking bright, and we can’t wait to see how this chapter unfolds!
