PLANT CITY, FL - Gary Wishnatzki’s devotion to the Florida strawberry sector will be etched in our industry’s history forever. The Owner of Wish Farms was recently inducted into the Florida Strawberry Growers Association’s (FSGA) Hall of Fame for his lifelong dedication.
Wishnatzki got his start in the family produce business nearly 50 years ago when it was known as Wishnatzki & Nathel. Since that time, he has been a strong voice for agriculture while pushing for innovation and embracing creative marketing efforts, a press release explained. Under his leadership, Wish Farms became a year-round supplier of strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and pineberries.
With growing operations and partnerships across the United States, Canada, and South America, the company has a 52-week supply of all five major berries, and ships fresh berries to major retail chains throughout the United States and Canada.
The press release went on to note that Wishnatzki also co-founded Harvest CROO Robotics, which is on a mission to solve farm labor challenges through automation. With more than 70 percent of the U.S. strawberry industry invested, Harvest CROO plans to build a fleet of robotic strawberry harvesters and reach commercialization in 2024.
“One thing Dad has always said to me is ‘if you’re not growing, you’re dying,’” said Public Relations Manager Nick Wishnatzki. “He totally lives up to that mantra. He comes to work every day with a positive attitude, a fire to learn something new, and a desire to strive for greatness. Our family is so proud of this achievement and the legacy he has built and continues to build on.”
FSGA Executive Director Kenneth Parker also commented on the announcement.
“Gary has been a lifelong supporter of the Florida strawberry industry and an advocate pushing for progress in technology, innovation, and more sustainable practices,” said Parker. “From push carts to robots, Gary has kept the culture of Wish Farms thriving by always having the company's eye on the future. As one of the leading innovators and advocates for the industry, there is no question about his resume as a new inductee to the Hall of Fame."
Congratulations to Gary Wishnatzki!
