Willie Itule Produce, an Arizona-based produce company, celebrated 40 years of being in business on April 15. The family-owned company was founded by Willie and Lynn Itule in 1979, but the roots of the family business go much deeper, with the Itule family having been involved in the produce business for decades before.
"The Itule family has been involved in produce, in one form or another, since the 1920's," said Lynn Itule. "Willie's father had a produce company in Phoenix, and he grew up around the business. While he had hoped to one day take over his father's business, it was sold in the 1970's when his father retired. Willie then worked in the San Francisco market for three years before coming back to Arizona to start his own company."
To celebrate, the family recognized their staff who they say have been a big part of the company's success over the years. "We toasted our employees and recognized that their contribution and commitment is a huge part of who we are and that we would not be here without them," Itule said. "We shared that toast and also a beautiful cake. Our immediate family shared a special dinner together."
The Itule family
From 3 items to over 1500
40 years is a long time in any business, but especially in the produce business. The Itule family have seen their fair share of products come and go over the years, while others are evolving and have gone from being in a state of decline to becoming produce stars again. Lynn Itule recalled what the company offered when they first opened and what they offer today.
"We started with the basics: lettuce, tomatoes and onions. Today we handle over 1500 SKU’s across a variety of commodities. What has been amazing is the creativity we see with new items and various blends. Items such as caulilini and cauliflower rice have become very popular, as have specialty turnips and beets. Micro greens have seen their popularity skyrocket and new varieties pop up all the time."
"This is not a job, it is a way of life"
While the business may have started with a few family members, Willie Itule Produce now has over 100 employees. Willie and Lynn's three children are also involved in the business, something that gives them much joy.
"There are many rewards to owning and operating a family business," Lynn shared. "We have been telling our children all of their lives that 'this is not a job, it is a way of life'. For them to really understand what that means and then to embrace that for their lives is very significant to us. I guess the biggest advantage is that there are five people that share the same dream, work ethic, sense of responsibility and determination to make that dream a reality."
Things are not about to stop either. Lynn said the family is constantly working to improve the business by maintaining their level of customer service as well as learning from and adapting to the ever-evolving world of fresh produce. "It is our desire to continue to grow, to adapt to an ever-changing market place and strive to stay abreast of the rapid changes in technology available to our industry," she concluded. "We have been blessed beyond all measure and are extremely grateful to all that have contributed to our success."
For more information:
Billy Itule
Willie Itule Produce
Ph: +1 (602) 252-7258
customerservice@ituleproduce.com
www.ituleproduce.com