J&D President Jimmy Bassetti Talks Texas Green Market and the Little Bear Brand
EDINBURG, TX - With Texas and the Rio Grande Valley playing an essential role in the distribution of fresh produce, Little Bear Produce is ramping up its Texas greens harvest in the deep south of the Lone Star State.
President of J&D Produce Jimmy Bassetti, and Jeff Brechler, Sales, for the company, joined me to talk Texas produce, the Little Bear Brand and vision, and what we can expect from the company as the New Year winds up.
“Currently we are harvesting leafy greens, cabbages, and herbs, with the season running until about mid-April,” Jeff tells me. “Greens are pretty steady throughout the season to meet the demand of our retailer and foodservice partners. Cabbage will hit a peak around St. Patrick’s Day, right in time for those promotional periods.”
Quality was challenged during the early harvest due to unseasonably warm temperatures in fall, but the company is reporting much improved quality now that the Rio Grande Valley is in a more “normal” weather pattern.
“Weather was hot during the fall and stressed plantings in South Texas,” Jeff adds, “and a mild fall up North delayed customers from transitioning to South Texas. But, with the cooler temps now up North, customers are back where they belong.”
With new year getting underway Jimmy forecasts continued rising demand with New Year’s resolutions persisting and the Super Bowl around the corner as well.
“All of the company’s produce will be shipped under our premium label,” Jimmy says. “J&D’s Little Bear brand is focused on taste, and quality pack, with shelf life. We pride ourselves on providing some of the most delicious and fresh produce in the area. The start of the new year provides the perfect opportunity for retailers to tap in the Little Bear greens program, which has items loaded with vitamins and nutrients. We strive to ensure that our produce retains its integrity and high-quality standards from our operations, until it reaches the consumer’s table.”
J&D and Little Bear facilitate the entire process–from field to truck to warehouse–to reduce spoilage and inventory shrinkage. The company is committed to preserving the earth and the natural resources that sustain the food cycle by composting, recycling and managing its operations according to sensible horticultural practices.
