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generations of experience, so they know what is worth selling and what isn’t,” says Cossyleon. “They’ve invested their time and labor into the products they sell, so they’re experts. Relationships and partnerships are established here. For the buyer and seller to feel confident, they should trust and get to know the people they work with.”
Pappas explains how they go the extra mile for customers. “If a customer calls and says they need squash blossoms next week, we call around and find out if they’re available,” he says. “We’re responding not just on a daily basis but also by planning ahead for special events such as weddings or holidays.”
Though Pete’s Market sources directly, it values relationships with wholesalers as well as its growers. “Wholesalers help with logistics to cut down on some transport and delivery costs,” says Patrick Morales, specialty produce buyer. “Pete’s Market has worked hard over the past 45 plus years to culti- vate relationships with our wholesalers and growers. They help by keeping us ahead of the market, letting us know of any problems with upcoming crops because of weather or conditions. They are always ensuring we get the best quality available.”
EXPANDED SERVICE
Market wholesalers continue to evolve by providing new and expanded services. The state-of-the-art facility at CIPM allows for efficient loading, unloading and delivery. And
many market merchants offer value-added services including ripening, custom packing, custom repacking, private-label programs, forward distribution services, cross docking and transportation services.
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