Page 99 - December2018
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WHOLESALE MARKET PROFILE
New England Produce Center Perseveres With Tradition, Trends
A steady reputation, relevant variety and diverse customer base provide a solid foundation for boston wholesalers’ continued growth.
BAy J o d e a n R o b b i n s
s one of the oldest market facili- ties on the East Coast, the produce market in Boston has a sturdy heri- tage dating back to colonial days.  is longevity, combined with its
locale, contributes to continued success. “ e advantage of our market is everybody knows where we are because we’ve been around for so long,” says Steven Piazza, president and treasurer at Community-Su olk. “And at this facility, everybody has plenty of room to operate, including interior space and yard space for trucks, piggybacks and freight cars. Our location draws from every major chain store on the East Coast, all the mom-and-pop stores and a variety of foodservice customers.”
Known since 1968 as the New England Produce Center (NEPC), the market has invested decades in ensuring a reliable reputa- tion. “Our customers know we have a consis- tent business,” says Kara Rullo, manager for J. Cerasulo. “Everybody considers us a reliable source. We focus on doing business as usual because what we’re doing works.”
 e strategic geographic position of the market aids in attracting and serving customers. “ e market is close to the city and close to the suburbs,” says Anthony Sharrino, president of Eaton & Eustis Co. “It makes it convenient and easy for buyers to get in and out of here.”
Paul Travers, president of Travers Fruit, notes how the NEPC’s convenient location near many local thoroughfares and highways allows access for everything from small vehi- cles up to large commercial shipping vehicles. “We are also on a railway system, allowing for deliveries via train,” he says. “Our facility has tremendous refrigeration areas. We have
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