The Boards of Directors of Sunkist Growers and Fruit Growers Supply Company (FGS) today announced a consolidated management structure to lead both companies moving forward.
“Sunkist Growers and Fruit Growers Supply are sister cooperatives that service the same constituencies,” said Chairman of the Sunkist Board of Directors, Gerald Denni. “A shared management structure will increase efficiencies in both organizations and drive a culture that best serves our membership.”
The two companies will remain legally separate entities with a shared leadership structure headed by Russ Hanlin as President & CEO of both organizations. Given the different natures of the two cooperative’s business activities, Chief Operating Officers at both organizations will manage day-to-day operations – John Striff at Sunkist Growers and Ted Pajak at Fruit Growers Supply. Legal, finance, information technology, human resources and government affairs services will be shared across the two cooperatives.
“These organizational changes at Sunkist Growers and Fruit Growers Supply will streamline operations of both companies,” said Russ Hanlin, President & CEO. “This structure will allow us to fully utilize talent and resources across both organizations to optimize service and value to our constituents.”
The Sunkist cooperative of family farms offers more than 40 fresh citrus varieties. With thousands of grower members in California and Arizona, the Sunkist cooperative reflects the values and legacy of its nearly 125-year history: family-owned farms where traditional growing practices, stewardship of natural resources and a dedication to innovation are proudly passed through the generations. Founded under the principle that more can be accomplished by working together, Sunkist continues to promote a culture of family and collaboration with growers and customers to drive positive results for all.
Fruit Growers Supply Company (FGS) was established in 1907 by the same growers who formed the Sunkist marketing cooperative to supply wood for their crates. In addition to supplying Sunkist’s needs, FGS delivers vertically integrated services throughout the industry. Services include manufacturing shipping pallets, corrugated cardboard cartons, coatings as well as providing equipment designs, irrigation services along with parts and materials, and also offering a wide array of agricultural supplies in our walk-in stores.
Contact:
Joan Wickham
Sunkist
Tel: 661-290-8777