For over seven decades, Malena Produce has been a beacon of quality in the produce industry, tracing its roots back to 1954 when Juan B. Stamos arrived from Greece and began cultivating eggplants in Sinaloa, Mexico.
This family-owned business, now celebrating its 70th anniversary, has grown into a respected name in North American markets, renowned for its high-quality tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, eggplants, squash, and green beans.
The company’s journey from just one farm to a major produce supplier shows how dedicated they are to doing things superbly and coming up with new ideas.
Alyna Cardenas, the Marketing Manager at Malena Produce, in conversation with Produce Leaders, shares insights into what makes the company’s products stand out.
“For over 70 years, we’ve been in the produce industry, sharing high quality and fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, eggplants, squash, and green beans,” she explains.
The emphasis on freshness and quality is not just a marketing slogan but a core value that has guided Malena Produce throughout its history.
The company takes pride in its sustainable farming practices, with much of its produce grown in greenhouses.
This approach not only ensures the consistent quality of their products but also demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.
Inside Malena, they are constantly looking for ways to improve the quality of fruits and vegetables with love for the planet.
This dedication to sustainability is evident in Malena Produce’s operations, where good agricultural practices (GAP), good manufacturing practices (GMP), and hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP) are implemented at every stage of production and distribution.
The company’s mission is to become an international model for socially responsible and sustainable production operations, ensuring that quality is always in season.
Malena Produce’s commitment to social responsibility extends beyond environmental concerns.
The company places a strong emphasis on the well-being of its workers and the communities it serves.
“Our respect and commitment to those who have helped us grow, offering integral benefits to improve the lives of our workers and end child labor,” Their website highlights.
This dedication is part of a broader mission to provide a safe and supportive working environment, which is essential for the company’s long-term success and sustainability.
Image: Malena Produce’s Instagram
As Malena Produce celebrates its 70th anniversary, the company is not just looking back at its rich history but also focusing on future innovations and market expansion.
In a recent report from The Produce News, it was noted that the company is launching new projects to enhance customer experience and reach new markets across North America.
These projects include new value-added consumer packs and a greater focus on flavor and new produce varieties. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation is unwavering, ensuring that it continues to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
Jim Cathey, who was interviewed for the previously mentioned article, underscores the company’s focus on maintaining high standards of quality and service excellence, a hallmark of Malena Produce since its inception.
As Malena Produce looks to the future, it remains dedicated to upholding the values that have defined its journey so far. The company is continuously exploring new ways to innovate and improve, with a focus on sustainability and social responsibility.
Cardenas shares that the company is excited about new product offerings and innovations as they celebrate their 70th anniversary.
“We’re celebrating our 70th anniversary with this video,” she notes, highlighting the company’s ongoing efforts to connect with customers and showcase their commitment to quality and sustainability.
Malena Produce’s success is also attributed to its strong relationships with partners and customers. “We are ever closer to our clients, always colorful, always fresh, always available,” affirms the narrator in the clip.
This commitment to consistency and reliability has helped the company build a loyal customer base that values the freshness and quality of Malena’s produce.
The company’s slogan, “It’s always Malena season,” encapsulates this commitment, promising customers the best produce throughout the year.
The company’s efforts in maintaining high standards are not limited to production practices. Food safety is a fundamental principle at Malena Produce, with stringent measures in place to safeguard clients.
The implementation of GAP, GMP, and HACCP ensures that every step, from the fields to the distribution centers, is monitored and managed to guarantee outstanding quality, great flavor, and safety.
This rigorous approach to food safety has positioned Malena Produce as a trusted name in the industry, known for its reliability and commitment to excellence.
Malena Produce’s 70-year journey is a story of dedication, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to quality.
From its humble beginnings in Sinaloa to becoming a major player in the North American produce market, the company’s success is built on the principles of sustainability, social responsibility, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
As it celebrates this significant milestone, Malena Produce continues to look ahead, embracing new challenges and opportunities with the same passion and commitment that have guided it for the past seven decades.
