As a trusted anchor tenant at the Detroit Produce Terminal, Riggio Distribution Co. has a long history of being one of the largest produce wholesalers servicing the Midwest.

The third-generation wholesaler deals in all aspects of the produce industry, offering a full selection of fresh fruits and vegetables which are shipped seven days a week to retail customers and foodservice customers.

The Michigan Apple Committee engages in marketing, research, education and communications for the benefit of Michigan’s apple growers.

“Our mission is to enhance the reputation of Michigan Apples, improve their share of sales in target markets and aid the profitability and sustainability of Michigan’s apple industry,” said Diane Smith, executive director of the Michigan Apple Committee. “We work in the areas of consumer education, research, market development, and communications with the primary goal to help Michigan Apple growers be successful in their businesses.”

With more than 50 years of produce experience, Belding, MI-based BelleHarvest is committed to delivering consistent, high-quality, flavorful apples — season after season.

“We have seen a 55 percent increase in the volume of our year-round program from last season and have added varieties to round out our high-flavor line-up,” Milt Fuehrer, chief executive officer of Belleharvest, told The Produce News toward the end of May.

With more than 117 years of providing excellent service, and led by owners Jake and Drew Billmeyer, who took over the reins from their father, Chris Billmeyer, Ben B. Schwartz & Sons remains a go-to company for produce by many.

Operating on the Michigan Produce Terminal in Detroit, and being the original produce house on the market, the company’s distribution network reaches most of the United States and parts of Canada, with a larger presence in Toronto in recent years.

Michigan is home to farmers growing a wide variety of crops and leads the U.S. in the production of asparagus, black and cranberry beans, cucumbers, tart cherries, Niagara grapes and squash.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development note that the state’s agriculture contributes more than $104.7 billion annually to the state’s economy, second only to California. While farms range in size, the majority of the medium and larger growers are generational farms, while newer farmers tend to be smaller.

The Michigan asparagus season is almost here, with harvest preparation under way and growers working diligently to deliver fresh asparagus from the field to retail shelves. This year’s crop promises thick, tender and firm asparagus — all signs of a nutritious and flavorful harvest.