Bland Farms has long been a key player in the produce industry, showcasing a strong commitment to hard work and innovation.

Started in 1948 by Raymond and Rubye Jean Bland, the farm began on a small 50-acre plot in rural Georgia. Over the years, it has grown into the largest grower, packer, and shipper of Vidalia® Sweet Onions.

This legacy, deeply rooted in tradition, continues today under the leadership of Troy Bland, the current CEO, who shared insights into the company’s values and operations in a recent conversation with Produce Leaders.

Troy Bland, alongside his brother Landis, carries forward the legacy of their grandparents and father, Delbert Bland, who propelled the company into the national spotlight.

“My focus is on expanding the firm’s reach while maintaining the highest standards defining Bland Farms,” Troy emphasized.

The origins of Bland Farms are steeped in history and hard work. Raymond Bland initially planted peanuts, corn, and later tomatoes. The entire family was involved in packaging, grading, and shipping produce.

This family-oriented approach laid the foundation for what was to become a significant player in the produce industry.

Delbert Bland’s vision in the early 1980s was pivotal. Upon graduating high school, he devoted his efforts to farming, particularly focusing on Vidalia® Sweet Onions, which were then a burgeoning specialty crop in Southeast Georgia.

His dedication saw the company grow from a small operation to a national necessity, symbolized by the now-famous Vidalia® Sweet Onion.

Vidalia® Sweet Onions are renowned for their unique, sweet flavor, a characteristic attributed to the low sulfur content of the soil in the specific 20-county region in Southeast Georgia where they are grown. “Vidalias are famous for their unrivaled sweet flavor,” Troy Bland stated, underscoring the uniqueness of their primary product.

Bland Farms manages about one-quarter of the entire Vidalia® sweet onion supply, highlighting its leadership and expertise in this specific market.

Their innovative controlled-environment storage further supports this dominance, allowing them to keep sweet onions available well beyond the traditional season.

The company’s commitment to meeting customer needs year-round led to strategic expansions beyond Georgia. Operations now span across the United States and internationally, including Texas, California, Nevada, Mexico, and Peru.

Troy highlighted this unique sourcing strategy, stating, “We boast a unique sourcing strategy that allows us to grow, pack, and ship the freshest Premium Sweet Onions 365 days a year.”

Technological advancements have played a significant role in Bland Farms’ success. In 1990, they pioneered the use of controlled-atmosphere storage rooms, extending the availability of Vidalia® onions from two to four months.

This innovation was crucial in maintaining the onions’ quality and meeting the growing demand. Further diversification came in the mid-1990s with the entry into the frozen food market, including products like frozen onion rings and chopped onion bits, quickly making Bland Farms the nation’s third-largest distributor in this segment.

Marketing and community engagement are integral to Bland Farms’ strategy. The company has consistently leveraged innovative campaigns to promote its products.

For instance, their recent Gold Rush promotion featured dynamic point-of-sale materials, social media engagement, contests, and prizes.

“Each year, our business for Vidalia® onions and premium sweet onions has grown, a direct reflection of our marketing efforts towards retailers and consumers,” the company noted, underscoring the importance of these initiatives.

Bland Farms’ commitment to sustainability is another critical aspect of its operation. Long before it was fashionable, they implemented eco-friendly practices in farming, packing, and shipping.

“I am committed to sustainability. This was a part of our ethos long before it became a buzzword,” Troy affirmed.

Their efforts include innovative farming methods designed to preserve the land and reduce environmental impact, reflecting a deep-seated responsibility towards the planet.

Image Credits: Bland Farms’ Instagram

Bland Farms also prides itself on its strong relationships with consumers, retailers, and wholesalers.

These connections have been built over decades, starting from Delbert Bland’s early days of traveling the country, handing out onions, and forging bonds with potential customers.

This personal touch has been a significant factor in the company’s growth and success.

As Bland Farms looks to the future, the focus remains on maintaining high standards and continuing the legacy of quality and innovation. The company’s history is a narrative of perseverance, family values, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Troy Bland’s leadership embodies this spirit, ensuring that Bland Farms will continue to thrive and set benchmarks in the produce industry.