As M. Levin & Co. Inc. celebrates its 120th anniversary in 2026, the Philadelphia-based distributor is balancing its long-standing legacy with a forward-looking strategy centered on growth, innovation and adapting to evolving market conditions.

The year began with challenges, as severe winter weather slowed activity across the region.

“The start of 2026 was slow here in Philadelphia due to severely cold temperatures and accumulating snow,” said Mark Levin, CEO of the company. “However, heading into spring, sales are starting to pick back up.” 

As the season improves, the company is navigating broader industry trends that continue to shape the produce business.

“Cost volatility, including fuel, labor and political factors, is reshaping pricing,” Levin said. “Rising fuel costs are increasing transportation and refrigeration expenses, and labor shortages in logistics and agriculture are adding additional costs.” 

Despite those pressures, M. Levin & Co. benefits from its strategic location in Philadelphia, which plays a key role in sourcing and distribution.

“Being located in the heart of Philadelphia, the proximity of regional agriculture is a big advantage,” Levin said. “We are able to source directly from farms in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland, while also being centrally located to major ports and the I-95 corridor.” 

That geographic advantage allows the company to efficiently serve a wide and diverse customer base.

“Philadelphia has a lot of independent chains, ethnic grocers and regional chain business,” Levin said. “Most of our customers are within a one- to three-hour radius, which supports our overall strategy.” 

Across categories, demand remains strong, with bananas continuing to lead the way as the summer months approach.

“All fresh produce is in high demand,” Levin said. “Our number one selling product is bananas, and they’re also the top-selling fruit in U.S. retail.” 

Maintaining that supply requires strong, long-term relationships with growers and suppliers, many of which date back decades.

“We’ve had long-standing, mutually beneficial relationships with our suppliers that span generations,” Levin said. “Some go back to the early years of our business, and they help ensure consistent supply and top-quality product year-round.” 

On the demand side, shifting consumer behaviors are influencing purchasing patterns, particularly as economic pressures impact household budgets.

“More than half of consumers are cooking at home due to cost pressures,” Levin said. “They’re buying more on promotion, freezing produce to extend shelf life and sometimes trading down from premium to more basic items.” 

At the same time, health-conscious trends continue to support produce consumption.

“There is still strong demand driven by health reasons, as people recognize the benefits of a plant-based diet,” Levin said. “We’re also seeing continued interest in organic and fair-trade items.” 

To remain competitive, M. Levin & Co. is investing in technology, particularly in areas such as ripening.

“We’re utilizing modern, technologically advanced ripening solutions,” Levin said. “Our hands-on approach is now supported by data, which helps sharpen our operations.” 

Looking at the years ahead, the company is focused on expansion and preparing the next generation of leadership.

“Our fourth generation has its eyes set on growth,” Levin said. “We’re looking to expand delivery capabilities and ripening capacity, and we’re exploring additional locations to support future opportunities.” 

As it enters its next chapter, M. Levin & Co. remains committed to building on its legacy while positioning itself for continued success in a rapidly changing industry.