“I speak for the entire industry when I say that there is a tremendous cooperative spirit that exists between the produce terminal merchants and the retailers in Detroit,” said Jeff Abrash, president and owner of Andrews Bros. Inc., located at the Detroit Produce Terminal. “Retailers work very hard at merchandising and selling more produce, and they count on us to source the right products. Without their energy and ability, we would not be as strong as we are, and the same is true in reverse.”

Mr. Abrash represents the fourth generation in the family owned and operated company, which began over 100 years ago. Abe Andrews was the founder, Eddie Andrews was the second generation and Herb Abrash, Jeff Abrash’s father, was the third generation.

A full line supplier of fruits and vegetables, Andrews Bros .strives to source the best produce from around the world to pass on to its customers at a fair price.

“We strive to represent our suppliers better than they can be represented elsewhere,” said Mr. Abrash. “We take advantage of seasonal product from wherever it is available. I feel strongly that one of the great reasons for the optimism in our business is the availability of products from around the world today.”

Andrews Brothers’ customer network includes independent and chain retailers, wholesalers and foodservice operators. Mr. Abrash said that foodservice wholesalers who are aggressive and work hard are the ones that are doing well today.

The company delivers some product, but much of its business is done on the terminal market. Mr. Abrash said that the term “farm market” covers a wide range of customers today.

“Some of these retailers identify themselves as fruit stands and some refer to their businesses as gourmet stores,” he explained. “They are referred to in many ways, but the bottom line is that they specialize in selling high-quality perishable foods. These customers represent a very big part of our business.”

The company also represents local growers when products are in season. Mr. Abrash added that he feels that locally grown is an important concept to support.

“The demand for locally grown flows upstream,” he said. “When consumer asks for local products at their retailers and at the restaurants they patronize, that demand is passed on to us. If people are asking for it, that’s what we strive to give them.”

Andrews Bros. does handle some organic produce, but Mr. Abrash noted that the segment is not yet a strong development in Detroit.

“We continue to try organics, and certain items get more traction. The organic movement is well publicized, and so we expect it to continue into the future.”

The majority of Andrews Bros.’ customers are represented in southeast Michigan, but the company also reaches out throughout the state and into Ohio and Canada.

“We’re a very stable company, and that also applies to our staff,” said Mr. Abrash. “We have a great crew of energetic individuals here. Our company philosophy is to come to work every day and do the best possible job for our suppliers and our customers.”