INDIANAPOLIS, IN - FreshEdge is growing its family of fresh food distribution companies through strategic play. The produce ally recently announced its acquisition of Panama Banana, a wholesaler and distributor of fine produce in the Chicago International Produce Market.

“We are thrilled to welcome Todd and Deke Pappas and their team to the FreshEdge family,” said Steve Grinstead, Chief Executive Officer of FreshEdge. “With their same commitment to customer service, Panama will be a great addition to our growing group of customer-obsessed distributors.”

As a press release highlighted, Panama has built a solid reputation as one of Chicago’s leading distributors of fine produce by serving customers with a strong passion for freshness, quality, and ease of doing business. It has been growing its legacy for nearly a century.

“We proudly welcome Panama to FreshEdge,” said Greg Corsaro, President and Chief Operating Officer of FreshEdge. “The addition of Panama not only enhances our family, but our pursuit to be the preeminent family of best-in-class fresh food companies.”

The deal closed on May 21, 2023. The terms were not disclosed.

“Our Panama team is thrilled to join FreshEdge,” said Todd Pappas, President of Panama. “This is the next step in increasing our footprint, serving customers with expanded offerings and growing for our future.”

Panama is housed in a state-of-the-art facility that features ripening rooms, cold coolers, climate-controlled docks, produce packaging and repacking, and logistical support, the release continued.

“We are excited for this great opportunity,” said Deke Pappas, Panama COO. “We look forward to continuing to provide the same unmatched level of service to our customers and are happy to share that Nick Florek will continue his leadership as VP/General Manager.”

ANUK will keep a close watch on the continuous growth of this produce ally and more, so keep clicking back.

FreshEdge