BAKERSFIELD, CA and LAKE PARK, GA - Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, Grimmway Farms is no stranger to growth as one of the nation's largest producers of carrots and organic vegetables. As we step into the second half of 2019, the company is doing so as well—and putting its best foot forward—with the acquisition of the Southern Georgia and North Florida processing facilities and assets of Lake Park, Georgia-based Generation Farms.

“We are committed to providing our customers with high quality vegetables year-round, and we seek to improve logistical efficiencies through our regional operations. Generation Farms' diverse processing capabilities and productive land base provide a unique opportunity to grow our regional carrot program and expand our organic division,” said Eric Proffitt, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Grimmway Farms.

Generation Farms’ Lake Park operation was created in 2013. The company was formerly Coggins Farm. Since its inception, Generation Farms has operated acreage across north Florida and Georgia, supplying carrots, green beans, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and watermelon. Additionally, Generation Farms grows, packs, and ships onions from its Vidalia, Georgia-based operation—an asset not included in the acquisition, according to a press release.

“We are excited to increase our footprint in the Southeast and welcome the talented team at Generation Farms to the Grimmway Farms family,” said Jeff Huckaby, President of Grimmway Farms. “We would also like to recognize Steve Grinstead and the Grinstead Group for providing expert advisory service and enabling a seamless transition from beginning to end.”

In 2015, Grimmway began producing carrots in Cook County, Georgia, and Live Oak, Florida. Grimmway strengthened its regional investment with the opening of its Southeast Regional Packing Facility and Warehouse in Sparks, Georgia, in February of 2018. This investment has allowed the company to ship conventional carrot products from the facility from mid-December through May.

Grimmway will continue to supply many of Generation Farms’ long-term customers in the region.

Grimmway has welcomed many companies into its fold over the years, having successfully integrated several produce companies into its operations following the acquisitions of Cal-Organic Farms in 2001, King Pak Potato Company in 2000, Mike Yurosek & Sons in 1995, and Belridge Packing Company in 1991.

This recent acquisition is a testament to Grimmway’s continued commitment to growth in the Southeast. Terms of the transaction have not been disclosed at this time.

Congrats, Grimmway, on your exceptional growth and innovation in our industry!

Grimmway Farms