Columbia’s Fresh Food Scene Transforms with McEntire Produce Acquisition by Fresh Express

Columbia Welcomes Exciting New Changes in Fresh Food!

Columbia, SC – Big news for fresh food fans! A beloved long-term business right here in Columbia has officially been acquired by a national salad brand. That’s right, Fresh Express Inc., based all the way in sunny California, has purchased McEntire Produce Inc., a company that has been serving the community since 1938. It’s a thrilling moment for the world of fresh-cut produce and promises great new opportunities for everyone involved!

What Does This Mean for Fresh Food Lovers?

So, what does this acquisition actually mean? Well, it’s set to combine the strengths of McEntire Produce’s extensive food service capabilities with the wide-reaching national supply network of Fresh Express. John P. Olivo, president of Fresh Express, and Carter McEntire, president and CEO of McEntire Produce, made the announcement official and it’s already generating excitement within the industry!

The newly formed Foodservice Division under the McEntire Produce name will look to expand its reach nationwide. Imagine having fresh, delicious salads available even more widely, thanks to the scale and expertise that Fresh Express brings to the table. With six plants now scattered across the nation, the hopes are high for improved food service solutions while keeping an eye on sustainability.

Jobs and Growth on the Horizon

But wait, there’s more! Just earlier this year, McEntire Produce announced their plans to invest a whopping $26.2 million into a brand new facility in Richland County, which is also set to create approximately 40 new jobs in the area. This acquisition is not just about merging; it’s about growth, and what could be better news for the local economy?

A Bright New Chapter

Carter McEntire expressed his excitement saying, “For 85 years, McEntire Produce has been a part of Columbia’s vibrant community. I’m thrilled to continue fostering that growth in my new role as vice president of food service at Fresh Express.” His passion for the local community and the company’s long-standing relationships with customers shines through. It’s a testament to how deeply rooted this business is in the fabric of Columbia.

Food Safety and Innovation Take Center Stage

One of the core values both companies share is food safety. The integration of McEntire Produce’s Simply Clean wash system with Fresh Express’s state-of-the-art RFID-based food traceability technology is set to elevate their food safety protocols to even higher standards. This means even fresher produce for everyone!

A Forward-Looking Vision

The vision shared by both companies goes beyond just profits; they’re committed to sustainability too. By reducing total food miles and carbon emissions while looking for more growth opportunities, they’re paving the way for a greener business model that respects our planet. Plus, with Fresh Express’s advanced distribution networks, they aim to lower transport costs, making delicious salads more accessible to everyone.

Conclusion

As Columbia heads into a new era of fresh food options, this acquisition promises to bring exciting changes not just for the companies themselves but for everyone in the community and beyond. Here’s to fresh salads, growth, sustainability, and a brighter future for food lovers everywhere! Keep your forks at the ready, Columbia!