As a newcomer to the world of fresh produce, I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect. Coming from the technology industry, I knew I was in for a big welcomed change. Well, change barely describes what I have been experiencing since joining DMA Solutions a month ago. Additional words that come to mind are amazement, admiration, respect and wonderment. I come into work every day now knowing that by helping to put fresh fruits and veggies in people’s hands I am doing something “good” on a daily basis. This is a far cry from selling someone an $800 cell phone.

I wanted to share the top five things that I have learned during my brief time at DMA Solutions that have completely BLOWN ME AWAY.

1. Giving Back – These two words are ingrained in people from the fresh produce industry. The passion people have for supporting local and national causes is unlike anything I have experienced. Causes range from anti-hunger and children’s health to providing a safe working environment for migrant works. The list could go on, but the overall goal of supporting people and the causes they believe in will always remain the same.
2. Family History-The history behind family owned farms is incredibly interesting. Skills and knowledge are passed down from generation to generation with some farms being in existence for over 100 years. Listening to these stories is extremely heartwarming and motivates me to find ways to help share them.
3. Industry Impact-I didn’t realize the massive impact fresh produce has on the economy. The fresh produce and mass-market floral industry contribute $554 billion annually to the nation’s economy. This represents 1.9% of all U.S. employment and provides 2.7 million full time positions and $72 billion in wages. Those are numbers to be proud of.
4. Tips and Tricks-Gone are the days of brown bananas the day after I bring them home from the grocery store. I had no idea that by separating bananas and wrapping each individual stem with plastic wrap would slow down the ripening process. Bananas last a lot longer in my house now.
5. Respect-My respect for the industry has grown tremendously. The blood, sweat and tears spent on providing fruits and veggies to our communities is astounding. Growers put their livelihood on the line in hopes that Mother Nature will be kind and provide a good crop. The commitment growers have to sustainable agriculture is commendable. There is incredible effort put into producing fresh fruit and veggies while preserving our natural ecosystem and making sure growers to come have available resources.

These are just a few things about the fresh produce industry that have blown me away, but I know as I continue to learn the list will grow. I am excited about what the future holds and to experience the industry and your products first hand at Fresh Summit in October. Make sure to look for the DMA team to say hello – I can’t wait to meet you!