POMPANO BEACH, FL - The Peruvian Asparagus Importers Association (PAIA) is gaining some new expertise as one of Southern Specialties’ own joins the organization. Carlos Solf, Vice President of Procurement for Southern Specialties, has been named as PAIA’s East Coast Co-Chairman for 2024–2025. The West Coast Co-Chairman is Craig Rolandelli of JMB.

Solf, a native of Peru, joined Southern Specialties 22 years ago after earning his master's degree from the University of Notre Dame, a recent press release from Southern Specialties explained. Under his stewardship, Southern Specialties’ asparagus program has grown to become among the largest in the nation.

In his role as PAIA Co-Chairman Solf will help guide the association in its efforts to advance the trade industry and progress the entire asparagus category as a whole, as PAIA’s Patricia Lleras noted in the release. Both Solf and Rolandelli have acknowledged the significant contributions of the past Co-Chairmen Walter Yager and Jay Rodriguez over the last several years.

Southern Specialties is a grower, importer, processor, and shipper of a variety of specialty products grown in Central America, South America, Mexico, Canada, and the United States, including asparagus. The company distributes from its Pompano Beach, Florida, headquarters, and facilities in San Luis, Arizona.

Congratulations to Carlos Solf on entering this new role!