Columbia Welcomes New Changes with Fresh Salad Brand Acquisition
Exciting news has unfolded in Columbia as Fresh Express Inc., the California-based salad brand that many have come to love, has officially wrapped up an acquisition of our very own McEntire Produce Inc. This transition brings fresh opportunities to Columbia’s food service landscape, as the beloved local produce company celebrates its rich history dating back to 1938.
The Details of the Big Switch
Though the financial terms of the deal remain hush-hush, it’s been confirmed by both John P. Olivo, president of Fresh Express, and Carter McEntire, president and CEO of McEntire Produce, that this merger is designed to enhance the capabilities of both businesses immensely. McEntire’s food service expertise will meld beautifully with Fresh Express’s vast retail supply network.
What does this mean for the folks within the Columbia community? Well, there’s going to be an impressive expansion of offerings with the creation of a newly formed Foodservice Division under the McEntire Produce name. You can expect to see the integration of innovations, a boost in food safety measures, and, best of all, new job creation.
New Jobs on the Horizon
As a part of these exciting developments, back in March, McEntire Produce announced plans to invest $26.2 million in a new facility right here in Richland County. This venture is expected to create 40 new jobs, which is fantastic news for the local economy. With these new initiatives, not only does the company plan to grow but it also aims to strengthen relationships with existing customers throughout the 20 states it currently serves.
Meet the New Vice President
If you’re wondering who will steer this new ship, it’s none other than Carter McEntire, who has been appointed as the vice president of food service at Fresh Express. McEntire, who has deep roots in this community and has served it for 85 years through McEntire Produce, expressed his excitement. In a heartfelt statement, he said, “I am excited to continue growing the business in my new capacity. We would like to especially extend our deepest appreciation to our dedicated employees for their valuable contribution over the years.”
Champions of Food Safety
Both companies place a strong emphasis on food safety, and this merger highlights their ongoing commitment. By combining McEntire’s innovative Simply Clean wash system with Fresh Express’s advanced RFID-based food traceability technology, customers can rest assured knowing that their salad is not only fresh but also safe.
This focus on food safety is more than just business—it’s about creating a strong bond of trust with consumers. After all, the world is changing, and everyone deserves to know where their food comes from.
Looking Towards a Green Future
One of the core goals of this merger is to lessen environmental impact. The new entity aims to enhance Fresh Express’s commitment to reducing food miles and carbon emissions. With fresh and efficient routes, McEntire Produce products will not only arrive faster but also in a more eco-friendly manner.
What’s Next?
As we look to the future, we can expect some thrilling changes and a wealth of fruits and vegetables (and some crisp salads!) to be available to the Columbia community. The transition of McEntire Produce to the Fresh Express umbrella is just the beginning. As they navigate their way into a new chapter, the local food scene is sure to flourish with these added resources and expertise.
So whether you’re a salad fan or a dedicated supporter of local businesses, keep an eye out for what’s next. Columbia has never looked fresher!
