Classic Fruit Sales Team Updates Following the Melon Merger Announcement

As Classic Fruit continues to move forward following the initial melon merger announcement, the sales team is providing an important update on the purpose and progress made throughout the integration process. With a continued focus on customer relationships, service consistency, and operational alignment, the sales team remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition while maintaining the high standards both companies are known for. This update reflects their dedication to clear communication, strengthened partnerships, and delivering long-term value to their customers as the organization moves into its next phase of growth.

“Successful companies are built around great employees and strong relationships,” comments Tom Ferguson, VP of Sales at Classic Fruit. “Classic Fruit and Westside Produce have mirrored each other, over multiple decades, with a footprint consisting of long-term employees and a like-minded approach of values, work ethic, and commitment to customers so it is a privilege to welcome them into the Classic Fruit family. I look forward to the opportunities we’ll create together.”

“The merger between Westside Produce and Classic Fruit reflects the year-round needs of our customers,” adds Mark George, VP of Sales at Westside Produce, which will now fall under Classic. “The seasonality of the produce industry has changed, and the ability to supply our customers 12 months a year is a terrific value. Working closely with the team at Classic for the last few years has really escalated this ability, and I am thrilled to see us continue growing the melon category together.”

As the merger explains, Westside Produce and Classic Guatemala, under the umbrella of Classic Fruit, will continue as operating entities for domestic and import melons, assuring growing supply, harvest, cooling, and distribution activities. They will continue packing both TRI and Classic labels with all sales and marketing services falling under Classic Fruit. This full company merger is part of their long-term strategy to strengthen operations and better support their customers. Most importantly, they want to reassure that there will be no changes to the product received, the quality expected, or the service relied on. Current programs, supply, and day-to-day contacts will all remain the same.

As progress continues to be made, the teams are excited to keep growing for many years in the future. “While both Classic Fruit and Westside Produce companies have individually achieved great success in our respected arenas, we together as one can continue these successes and improve upon those with our 52 week a year grower/packer/shipper operation,” adds in Tom Conrado, VP of Sales at Classic Fruit. “I have gained a deep and lasting respect for the Patricio family and their accomplishments in the domestic melon industry and am extremely excited for the Classic Fruit Company/Westside Produce relationship to continue on for many years to come.”

As Classic Fruit continues to advance through this next phase of integration, the company remains committed to transparency, strong customer partnerships, and delivering the quality and service that have long defined both of their reputations. The sales team will continue working closely with customers and partners to ensure a seamless transition while identifying new opportunities for growth and collaboration. While this is an internal, operational alignment, their focus externally remains unchanged – to consistently provide safe, quality, sustainable melons direct from their farms to you, every day of the year!

For more information on the announcement, please contact one of their offices below:

Florida – (954) 426-0775

Fresno – (559) 271-9200

Firebaugh – (559) 659-3904