Columbia Welcomes Fresh Express Acquisition of McEntire Produce, Promising Growth and Sustainability

Columbia’s Business Scene Gets a Fresh Boost!

Hey there, Columbia! Big news is brewing in town as a beloved local business gets a fresh makeover thanks to a significant acquisition. This week, Fresh Express Inc., a well-known salad brand out of California, has taken the plunge and purchased McEntire Produce Inc., a fresh-cut processor and wholesaler that has been serving the Columbia community since way back in 1938!

A Historic Move

In a deal that has food enthusiasts buzzing, details about the purchase remain under wraps. However, both companies are optimistic about what this merger means for the future. According to John P. Olivo, president of Fresh Express, this acquisition combines McEntire’s established food service expertise with Fresh Express’s extensive retail presence. It’s a match made in produce paradise!

The Benefits Ahead

By joining forces, they’re setting the stage for a newly formed division—The Foodservice Division of Fresh Express—to expand its reach and tap into what they describe as a national food service solution. McEntire Produce is now poised to benefit from Fresh Express’s impressive infrastructure, which boasts six plants across the country, a network of skilled growers, and advanced supply chain capabilities. Talk about a game changer!

Looking Forward Together

Both Fresh Express and McEntire Produce emphasized their commitment to enhancing the customer experience. In a shared press release, they stated their goal of continuing to build long-term relationships with clients while working to reduce food miles and carbon emissions. Plus, they aim to lower transportation costs for McEntire’s products. What a wonderful commitment to sustainability!

New Heights for McEntire

Earlier this year, McEntire Produce had announced exciting plans to construct a brand-new facility right here in Richland County, investing a whopping $26.2 million and promising to create 40 new jobs. This acquisition aligns perfectly with those growth plans, and it’s clear that the folks at McEntire Produce are ready to take things to the next level!

Meet the New Team

Carter McEntire, president and CEO of McEntire Produce, is stepping into a new role as the vice president of food service for Fresh Express. “I’m thrilled to continue growing our beloved brand and work closely with the talented team at Fresh Express,” he shared. He took a moment to thank employees for their dedication, noting, “The foundation of our success is in the hands of our valuable workforce.”

Safety First!

Both parties are deeply committed to food safety, a value that they both prioritize. By merging McEntire’s Simply Clean wash system with Fresh Express’s advanced RFID-based food traceability technology, they’re taking their food safety initiatives up a notch. Together, they’re poised to deliver superior products that consumers can trust!

Wrapping Up

As Fresh Express and McEntire Produce come together to create exciting new opportunities, Columbia is sure to reap the benefits. With enhanced offerings, new jobs, and a commitment to sustainability, this acquisition signifies a bright future for the local community and food industry alike. Keep your eye on these two as they serve up fresh produce goodness for years to come!

So, Columbia, how do you feel about this fresh chapter in local business? Excited? Curious? Let’s chat about it!