Bret Erickson Joins J&D Produce as New Director of Business Development
EDINBURG, TX -J&D Produce is one of those dynamic companies that never sits still for long; always eyeing that next phase of growth and evolving its capabilities to address the needs of today’s industry and customer. With that strong focus on developing its program, J&D is welcoming a new face to the team with former President of the Texas International Produce Association Bret Erickson. In his new role as Director of Business Development, Bret will focus on special projects that will further strengthen and grow J&D for the long haul and position the company for future success.
“During my time at TIPA, I worked closely with Jimmy Bassetti on numerous initiatives which benefited the entire produce industry,” Bret shares as he reflects on the relationship he has built with Jimmy over the years. “J&D faces many of the same challenges that the rest of the industry is dealing with—issues such as labor shortages, water issues, food safety, border crossing issues, automated harvest solutions, NAFTA negotiations, and many others. My goal is to help address these issues while positioning the company to deliver the highest-quality produce with the best customer service standards we can.”
The Texas-based company is a major grower and shipper of greens, onions, melons, and tropicals with customers spanning across major retailers in the U.S. and Canada. J&D has growing operations in Texas, New Jersey, New Mexico, Georgia, as well as Mexico, and Peru and employs approximately 700 employees across all of its operations.
“We are thrilled to have Bret Erickson join the J&D family,” Jimmy, Owner of J&D Produce, tells me, echoing Bret’s excitement about joining the team. “We have worked closely with Bret for the last five years in his former role as the President of the Texas International Produce Association. He understands the challenges that face our business including a growing shortage of labor, the need for mechanization, water availability, food safety, and changing retail and consumer trends. Bret brings a valuable mix of knowledge and experience that will help position J&D for future growth and success.”
Congratulations to Bret on joining J&D Produce, and to the team for the exciting road ahead!
