OVIEDO, FL - A significant change is taking place within Duda Farm Fresh Foods’ executive team. The supplier recently announced that Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing Rick Alcocer is retiring.

Following his graduation from the University of Southern California in 1980, Alcocer began his lifelong career in the fresh produce industry when he accepted the position of financial analyst with Dole Fresh Vegetables. After eight years at Dole, he transitioned to Tanimura & Antle, where he spent nearly 15 years honing his skills. According to a press release, he assumed various roles with Tanimura & Antle, including Account Executive, General Sales Manager, and ultimately Director of Retail Sales. In 2003, Duda was fortunate to welcome him as the Director of Fresh Sales.

During Alcocer’s four-decade career, he has witnessed numerous industry shifts, technological advancements, and evolving consumer preferences, adeptly navigating each change and forging enduring relationships within the industry. His ability to lead and work with others was demonstrated in his appointment as the first American Chair of the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (2017–2018), where he had been a Board Member for over 25 years.

In his retirement, Alcocer plans to spend more time with his grandsons and family, traveling, fly-fishing, hiking, and gardening. He is also hoping to learn how to sleep past 4 a.m. every morning. Aren’t we all!

“As Rick embarks on his retirement, I express our deepest appreciation for his unwavering commitment to the industry and over two decades of service at Duda Farm Fresh Foods," said Mark Bassetti, President. “He has made an undeniable impact on both Duda and the produce industry at large. I wish him a future filled with well-earned rest and enjoyment.”

We raise a glass to Rick Alcocer as he begins this new chapter!