IMMOKALEE, Fla. – Lipman, North America’s largest field tomato grower, continues to grow with the acquisition of Legend Distributing in Phoenix, Ariz.
"We are thrilled to welcome the Legend Distributing team to Lipman," said Kent Shoemaker, CEO of Lipman. "Their experience in our industry and presence in the Southwestern states make them a perfect fit.”
As Lipman continues to grow, the Phoenix market along with the Southwestern part of the country was a strategic focus for the company. Legend Distributing brings unique varieties of fresh produce that will now be offered to Lipman customers. With this acquisition, Lipman is able to expand its geographic footprint, better serving its customers across the country.
“We are all excited to join the Lipman family of companies,” said Barry Zwillinger, President of Legend Distributing. “We know that being part of a farming company will give our customers what they demand … dependable access to fresh tomatoes and vegetables, 24/7/365.”
Barry Zwillinger, President, and Ric Crespo, General Manager, will both remain with the company and maintain their leadership roles.
"Their values are in line with ours,” Shoemaker said. “The Legend Distributing team is creative, experienced and committed to providing customers with fresh, safe, great tasting produce.”
About Lipman
Lipman grows tomatoes and vegetables throughout North America, providing dependable year-round fresh produce through an integrated network of people and facilities in research & development, farming, processing, and repacking. Farms in Florida, South Carolina, Virginia, California and Mexico – totaling tens of thousands of acres – allow Lipman to grow and ship fresh produce 365 days a year. Based in Immokalee, Fla., Lipman is an industry leader in sustainable agriculture, food safety and the delivery of high-quality produce. For more information, visit www.LipmanProduce.com.
Source: Lipman