NORFOLK, VIRGINIA, USA – Gene Akins of Catalytic Generators was announced Florida Tomato Man of the Year at the annual Florida Tomato Committee Conference October 4, 2019.
Board members of the Florida Tomato Committee recognized Akins with this award for over 40 years of dedicated support to the tomato industry and Florida tomato growers. David Neill, “long-time” tomato grower and Committee member, spoke on behalf of the Florida Tomato Committee sharing, “Gene Akins and Catalytic Generators have been a constant supporter of our industry and we thank you for this long-term support.”
Once awarded, Akins spoke to the conference attendees stating, “It is an honor to accept this award. Our company and employees will continue to promote Florida tomatoes and mature greens.” Akins continued, “It is important that we as an industry maintain the proper phrasing of ‘applying ethylene’ to produce to promote the natural ‘degreening’ and ‘ripening’ of the fruit.”
After serving on the Florida Tomato Exchange board for over 25 years, Akins will be stepping down. Catalytic Generators will continue to support Florida Tomato as a resource for post-harvest handling of tomatoes and effective ethylene application.
About Catalytic Generators, LLC
The process of producing ethylene in ripening rooms was invented and patented by Catalytic Generators in 1973. The system consists of a catalytic-type generator that converts a liquid concentrate, called Ethy-Gen® II, into safe levels of ethylene, which is a natural plant hormone produced by many fruits, including bananas, tomatoes, avocados, mangos, and pears. With a strategic distribution network, Catalytic Generators offers its customers timely service and delivery across the globe.
