DELANO, CA - From buyers to suppliers and everyone in between, when trade shows like the Texas International Produce Association’s (TIPA) Viva Fresh Expo take place, it's like a family reunion because, in this industry, we are family. Part of that is because of the many family-owned businesses that have operated for decades, like Pandol Brothers, which has established unique bonds across the table grape sector and beyond to provide a special experience for its partners and their shoppers.
“With Pandol being a family-owned company, we not only strive for success, but we pride ourselves in keeping the same great quality we’ve had for generations,” says Stefanie Pandol, Marketing. “We can be innovative and work to bring new varietals to the table while keeping the same great values in mind.”
As Stefanie explains, one of the best things about the table grape industry is that everyone is family. Although you might technically be competitors in the market, at the end of the day, all of the growers are friends. Through thick and thin, companies come together to celebrate or lend a hand, which is what Pandol values, what makes the supplier an ideal partner for retailers, and what it will highlight at the upcoming Viva Fresh event.
“As the company has expanded over more than 60 years, we have stayed true to our values and are still family owned and operated. My grandfather worked daily, and my father’s summer job became his full-time career. I am honored to be in the company's fourth generation alongside my brother, even though he and I are taking on different roles,” explains Stefanie. “While my brother may be following in my father’s footsteps in growing the best quality grapes we can, I am taking a different approach. I might not have the shovel in my hand, but I’m taking on new marketing roles and digging into potential new opportunities.”
This pride in the family business drives Stefanie and the team at Pandol to produce high-quality fruit and offer the best possible service to its customers so that they can share that reward with shoppers nationwide.
Further honoring the Pandol family and its legacy, the grower will also showcase its partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project®.
“Through our alliance with the foundation, we have special packaging for domestic blueberries and grapes,” shares Stefanie. “This is an organization close to our hearts, as my great-uncle, Jack V. Pandol, served in WWII from 1944 to 1946. Before his time was over, he achieved the rank of Master Sergeant and received several commendations, including the Purple Heart after the war.”
If you want to join the Pandol family, stop by booth #826 to chat with the friendly team.
