LOS ANGELES, CA - To reflect on the past 100 years is to look back at a completely different time, a series of innovations and evolutions, and a rooted history of both challenges and success. As the Giumarra Companies announces the centennial anniversary of its wholesale produce business, Giumarra Brothers Fruit Company, the distinguished supplier is looking back on a legacy founded in Los Angeles, California, in 1922 by Giuseppe “Joe” Giumarra and his brothers.
“I’m humbled as I reflect on the late nights, early mornings, and grit of our past leaders and employees who all contributed to the Giumarra Companies in its modern form,” said John Corsaro, Chief Executive Officer of the Giumarra Companies. “We look forward to sharing the next evolution of our business with the world as we focus on services, technology, and of course, great-tasting produce.”
At the time of its inception, the Giumarra Brothers Fruit Company (GBF) sold produce, namely oranges, from a small stall at the 7th Street Market in Los Angeles, California, formerly known as L.A. Union Terminal Market. According to a press release, the operation continued to grow as Joe Giumarra focused on acquiring produce from growers and would make regular trips to Highland, California, to source special Navel oranges with excellent eating quality. His brother, George Giumarra Sr., and brother-in-law, Dominick Corsaro, managed the wholesale operation on-site in Los Angeles and sold the produce.
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With a dream of growing his own produce, Joe eventually purchased acreage in Bakersfield, California, in 1939, which became the formidable table grape operation that is Giumarra Vineyards.
“I often joke that I hardly recognize our company because we have changed so much in 100 years,” said Don Corsaro, former President and current Chairman of the Giumarra Companies. “Our strength lies in our ability to evolve while staying true to our founding values, and we will continue to grow under our current team led by John Corsaro and Tim Riley.”
For decades, the company continued to grow and expand, seeing many impressive milestones along the way. To learn more about the company’s well-recognized legacy in the produce industry, click here.
And a huge congratulations to Giumarra Companies on a century of success!
