Darigold Inc. announced that it will substantially expand its global customer service and long-term commitment to growth in international markets. The company is creating an overseas sales, service and distribution network to strengthen its valued international relationships. So far, Darigold has opened offices in Mexico City, Mexico; Singapore, and Shanghai, China, and expects to expand to more countries soon.

Darigold projects that it will grow from serving roughly 20 countries today to serving 40 or more countries in the near future. The company will also offer deeper product customization capabilities, along with solutions tailored to customer- and country-specific needs.

Currently, more than 40% of Darigold farm milk production goes into exported products, and Darigold expects that to surpass 50% in coming years, in addition to its overall farm production growth.

“Customer needs and expectations for more personalized service and technically advanced solutions are increasing rapidly with rising global demand and developing world incomes,” the company said. “Customers expect a long-term, sustainable supply source through direct relationships with sophisticated suppliers. Given the sustainable nature of Northwest [U.S.] agriculture, Darigold’s coastal proximity to global ports and its owners’ long-term commitment to excellence, Darigold is well positioned to serve these expanding needs.”

While Darigold will maintain its headquarters in Seattle, Wash., it is hiring employees overseas to support the development and expansion of its international network to connect Northwest dairy to the rest of the world.

“We are excited to expand with new in-house international capabilities and better serve our customers worldwide through a direct network,” Darigold president and chief executive officer Stan Ryan said. “With an expanded global team, Darigold can fully realize the potential of providing Northwest dairy products’ unique sustainability, quality, nutrition and taste to the world.”