Wholesalers & Distributors

Ranging from national distributors to a multitude of smaller single-market wholesalers, this segment distinguishes itself by having the right products on hand when their customers need them and responding with a prompt delivery. Purchasing their products direct from the grower, a wholesaler maintains a broad inventory to provide their customers with just-in-time products on a consistent, year-round basis.

Wholesalers serve several specific functions in the produce distribution chain. For growers, they provide an outlet for varieties, grades and sizes that the chain retailers won't purchase. For small retailers and restaurants, they serve as public central distribution center that enables them to compete with large national chains.

Brokers

Traditionally a broker was an entity that facilitated commerce from one company to another, most often from a grower/shipper to a retailer, and was paid a brokerage fee on a per box basis by the shipper. Today the term "broker" is a catch-all for produce companies that do not grow, pack or ship anything themselves.

Over the past several years, many retailers became preferential to purchasing direct from the grower, thinking it would drive costs down. In response, many companies have removed the term "broker" from their names, but the reality is that brokers provide a necessary function in the produce industry by providing a flexible and consistent supply of produce to help meet the year-round demands of major retailers and foodservice providers.

Processors

Although processing companies are the newest segment in the industry, they are responsible for driving demand by creating value-added offerings. With the advancements of packaging alternatives this segment is providing the consumer with numerous healthy and convenient options that have increased the overall consumption of fresh produce.

Starting with fresh salads then to vegetables and now on to fruit, processing companies provide enormous potential for growth and innovation as the science and technology continues to evolve. With continued consumer demand for quick and easy meal prep options, the growth of this segment is expected to continue at an astonishing rate and present great opportunities for the produce industry.

Importers & Exporters

These companies specialize in either bringing produce into the United States or selling U.S. grown produce to other countries.

A great deal of growth is expected in the international trade arena. As more imports and exports are likely, many U.S. firms are expanding their international presence and major retail organizations are developing global procurement capabilities.