Last year, California-based Meena Farms—a family-operated cherry growing operation—announced the construction and opening of its own packing facility in the heart of the westside growing district's unique micro-climate. Strategically located within the core of Meena's farming operations, the new facility eliminates the need to transport cherries across multiple county lines, enhancing fruit quality and giving the company greater control over its product through vertical integration.
Now, the company is ready for the next step in expanding its cherry program, announcing a partnership with Washington-based Starr Ranch Growers. "Together, we will be building programs for customers in North America and beyond," says Chris Medeiros, General Manager with Meena Farms. The Meena Farms and Starr Ranch families have known each other for many years, and the two multi-generational family operations share the same core values. While the partnership is new, the relationship isn't, and both companies are excited to announce this collaboration. "We are looking forward to aligning with a team that understands our fruit, our values, and the importance of follow-through," says Alex Guerra, Chief Operations Officer at Starr Ranch Growers. "This partnership is grounded in a clear vision, to build a vertically integrated, multi-regional platform that redefines how premium produce is aligned, marketed, and scaled," added Medeiros.
Offering reliability
Both companies share the common goal of bringing high-quality cherries from California and Washington to the world. "We've always prioritized quality – and now we're partnering with a team that matches that standard in the marketplace," commented Guerra. California is the earliest growing region in North America and is followed by supplies from Washington. This partnership will enable both companies to offer a consistent, high-quality supply of cherries over an extended period. "Offering a season-long program provides our buyers with a steady supply," said Medeiros. This partnership will bring reliability to customers in both domestic and export markets, allowing for relationships to be maintained and further strengthened. "Our buyers will have the benefit of working with one team from the beginning of the season as we will guide them from start to finish. We want to support them in owning the category and succeeding in executing a successful cherry program," Medeiros added.
Starr Ranch legacy
In addition to bringing more security and reliability to the cherry supply chain, Medeiros is also excited about preserving the legacy of Starr Ranch Growers. "The Thomas family has been growing cherries for many generations, and we admire their passion. We feel this is just the beginning of a partnership that will continue to build." The team at Starr Ranch is equally excited about the upcoming season. "This partnership brings exactly what we've been looking for: fresh energy, commitment to our growers, and focus on telling our story the right way," said Guerra. Starting in just a few weeks, cherries will be brought to market under the labels of both companies.
For more information:
Chris Medeiros
Meena Farms
www.meenafarms.com
Alex Guerra
Starr Ranch Growers
www.starranch.com