GLENNVILLE, GA - Delbert Bland received an industry honor upon his induction into the prestigious Vidalia® Onion Hall of Fame. The Vidalia Onion Committee hosted the induction ceremony, honoring Bland’s contributions to the Vidalia® onion industry.

In his acceptance speech, Delbert Bland, Owner of Bland Farms®, expressed gratitude to his family, noting that "At the end of the day, it doesn't matter how many onions you sell or how much land you own...it's who you love and who loves you. I am blessed by the ones that love me."

Delbert Bland’s contributions to the Vidalia onion industry are numerous. This includes his role in establishing a federal marketing order and legislation for the Vidalia onion district, a press release explained.

He was also the first to introduce Vidalia onions in a 40 lb bag and pioneered a successful mail-order business that helped popularize Vidalia onions across the country.

"Delbert Bland has been a pioneer and advocate for the Vidalia Onion," said Troy Bland, Chief Executive Officer of Bland Farms and son of Delbert Bland. "His father, Raymond Bland, started a small 50-acre farm over 75 years ago. In 1974, when my dad graduated from high school, they formed the company—Bland Farms. My dad planted the first five acres of Vidalia onions in 1982 and has since transformed Bland Farms into a household name known for quality Vidalia Onions."

Cliff Riner, Chairman of the Vidalia Onion Committee, also praised Delbert Bland’s induction.

“There is no higher honor we can bestow on an individual than inducting someone into the Vidalia Onion Hall of Fame,” he noted. As such, Delbert Bland's legacy will forever be enshrined in the history of the Vidalia onion.

Established in 1991, the Vidalia Onion Hall of Fame annually recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to the growth and success of the Vidalia onion.

We know that Delbert Bland embodies all of these characteristics and more.