Lipman Family Farms Champions Partnerships with Local Family-Operated Farms in Support of American Economy
IMMOKALEE, FL - Supporting local farmers has been a long-standing commitment for Lipman Family Farms, who recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Lipman Local program. The program pairs locally-sourced produce with Lipman’s national distribution network to expand product offerings, bridge the gap between the farming community and customers, and ensure fresh high-quality produce year-round.
“This program is a win-win partnership that allows us to meet consumer demand for fresh, local produce year-round, while also giving small farmers a deserving return on their crop,” said David Ackers, Manager of Procurement and Lipman Local. “We’re a family business committed to the success of the farming community, so working closely with other family-operated local businesses to grow together makes sense for us.”
Through the initiative, Lipman partners with growers nationwide to provide customers with seasonal produce picked at the peak of freshness. This also reduces the environmental impact felt from cross-country shipping. Lipman then gives local farmers the tools and knowledge to help them up their operational game, including education around quality control, food safety, purchasing power, and sales and marketing support.
According to a press release, an example of the success of the program can be found in family-owned Stecher Farms, located in Mantua, New Jersey. With a commitment to quality and a portfolio of eggplant, squash varieties, chile pepper, and additional vegetable varieties, Stecher Farms’ partnership with Lipman has allowed it to sustain and grow its family business.
“This is the time of year when people get excited about local produce as we begin our harvest this month. Our partnership with Lipman has enhanced our ability to meet this need and nourish the community,” said Zeke Stecher, Owner of Stecher Farms. “Since joining forces, we have put more in the ground every year with confidence that it will be sold. We’ve not only seen production increase by over 400 percent, but we’ve also built a reputation for quality and consistency in our community.”
Lipman Family Farms is currently affiliated with more than 50 local farmers in 20 states through its Lipman Local program, including those located in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania.
Collaboration is the name of the produce game. Stick with AndNowUKnow as we cover the latest in industry partnerships.
