Del Fresco, based in the Kingsville/Leamington, ON, area, grows and ships staple, experimental and niche gourmet greenhouse items. Since the start of operation over 35 years ago, the company has increased the size of its acreage to over 50 times that of the original acreage.

A 16-ounce container of Del Fresco ‘Delights’ cocktail tomatoes. (Photo courtesy of Del Fresco Produce Ltd.)“All our products are grown in facilities we own and operate. We oversee everything from the time the seed is planted to distribution,” said Ray Mastronardi, who handles sales and marketing for Del Fresco. The company services small, medium and large chain stores as well as foodservice and wholesalers. “We’re very consistent and have superior quality pack because we are able to control all aspects of our business,” he said.

“Del Fresco will be adding purple, white and striped eggplants to our line. We have noticed that there is a lot of room for growth in the eggplant category,” noted Mr. Mastronardi. “We’ve also been experimenting with new packing ideas.

“The cucumber category is another area where we are seeing a lot of room for growth, particularly in the southern states. We are working at increasing awareness of the great qualities of both conventional and mini cucumbers,” said Mr. Mastronardi.

Del Fresco is a family-owned-and-run operation. Mr. Mastronardi’s father, Carl Mastronardi, is president and one of the head growers. Jamie D’Alimonte, Ray Mastronardi’s cousin, is also a head grower and partner of all our operations. “If there’s anything you need to know about plants, Carl and Jamie are recognized and respected as two of the top growers in Leamington/Kingsille. Their experience and knowledge have enabled the quality and consistency of our product to continually improve. When it comes to growing, they have an uncanny ability to know what the next move should be before it has to be made,” continued Mr. Mastronardi.

“This year, a North American trend is an abundance of hot house product. Fortunately the weather has been great for greenhouses, which has led to incredible production,” said Mr. Mastronardi.

“It benefits the consumer when we have to push a lot of product; they get a very favorable price,” he concluded.