Nixa, Mo. – Market Fresh Produce has completed its asset acquisition of Harlin Fruit Company, a 100-year old produce business based in Monett, Mo.
Market Fresh is in the process of renovating and upgrading the facility to serve as a repacking center that will allow them to be regionally right in servicing Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma and Arkansas. Reworking, ripening, cross-docking and redistribution services will also be offered.
Long-term, Market Fresh officials plan to see rapid growth by increasing Market Fresh brand recognition across the Midwest. Tyler Phipps, newly appointed General Manager of the Monett facility, has very high expectations of how it will positively impact the Market Fresh organization.
This new acquisition allows Market Fresh to continue its path toward vertical integration and further its “Field to Fork” strategy.
“This is a very exciting time for our company,” Steve Phipps, Market Fresh CEO and owner, said. “Having a local facility will provide further research and development opportunities as Market Fresh continues to be one of the most innovative brands in the produce industry.”
Jerry Sutton, former owner of Harlin Fruit Company, believes the building will be a tremendous asset for Market Fresh and is thrilled the facility is remaining in the produce industry.
“I’m sure Steve will make it go,” Sutton said. “And make it bigger and better.”
Market Fresh is one of the fastest growing produce brands in the industry offering full line procurement and category management in tomatoes, potatoes, onions, sweet potatoes, peppers, avocados and kiwifruit. Through their national network of distribution centers, state of the art Vendor Managed Inventory program, and a proven track record of customer service, Market Fresh continues to help their customers eliminate supply side problems and grow in store categories.
Source: Market Fresh Produce