SCOTTSDALE, AZ – Pura Vida Farms, nationwide pineapple importer and grower and shipper of melon products, announced the selection of Shawn Avera as the Director of Watermelon Operations for their Eastern Region. Avera began his duties on August 20, 2012 and will be based at Pura Vida’s new Moultrie, Georgia office. Working face to face with contacts on the East Coast, Avera brings over 10 years of experience in the produce industry, specifically focusing on watermelon production in the Southeast and Midwest. He has experience working in all aspects of the produce supply-chain, from the ground to the store, including growing, greenhouse, brokering trucks and sales.
“We have been actively searching for a Director of Watermelon Operations to expand our East Coast program, building on the strong foundation already in place at Pura Vida Farms,” said Chris Elsie, partner at Pura Vida Farms. “Shawn not only has the experience, knowledge and relationships needed to expand the business, he also has the core work ethic and team building attributes we’re looking for in anyone joining the Pura Vida family.”
Avera said when he received the offer to join the company it was a clear and easy decision for him since the core focus and business model is directly in line with his own vision for building a successful watermelon program.
“Pura Vida has developed into a force in the watermelon category in only a short period of time, establishing themselves as a company committed to quality with a focus on expanding their programs to the retail community,” Avera said. “I look forward to helping build the Pura Vida brand and expand our operations on the East Coast.”
Avera said he believes the vision and drive of the company’s team will have them well positioned to become one of the leading produce companies in the country.
For more information about Pura Vida Farms, please Mackenzie Michel at 214.444.7456 or mmichel@dma-solutions.com or visit www.PVFarms.com.
About Pura Vida Farms
Pura Vida Farms is a nationwide grower/shipper of melons as well as an importer of Costa Rican Gold Pineapple. With sales offices in Scottsdale, Arizona and Brea, California, as well as domestic growing operations in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia and Alabama, Pura Vida Farms focuses on developing supply programs for the retail, wholesale and foodservice trades.
Source: Pura Vida Farms