The majority of companies located at the Hunts Point Terminal Market are multi-generational family-owned. But the way companies do business today is quite different than their forefathers.

“Many houses on the market are putting salespeople on the street, which is something new,” said Vice President Shelly Nathel told The Produce News. “We don’t because our customers come to us, but I understand the concept. Many companies now receive direct shipments, and new ones have opened up outside the market in our region. This increases the competition we all face, despite that some of these outside companies are also our customers.”

In the approximate 30 years that Nathel has personally worked at his family business, he has seen the market go from over 90 firms to about 30 today, with five or six houses being of great consequence in that they now represent the largest firms on the market.

“Like us, they carry full lines, including ethnic, specialty, organic and local product,” explained Nathel. “A customer can now buy everything they need from just a few houses.”

Nathel is joined in company ownership and management by his brother, Ira Nathel, who serves as company president.

Founded by their grandfather, Daniel Nathel, in 1922, leadership then passed to Alvin Nathel, Shelly and Ira’s father. Alvin died at age 83 on May 31, 2015.

“Our father was an icon in the market, and people still talk about him with high regard,” said Nathel. “He was a wonderful mentor to so many people in the produce industry.”

Nathel also speaks highly of the company’s outstanding staff, noting that the team includes a great foreman, warehouse and office staff and a cadre of buyers as good and honest as they come.

“We are so very thankful to our grandfather and father for starting and building up this business, but it would not be possible without our stellar staff,” stressed Nathel. “They have equally contributed to the company’s success, and when we talk about ours being a family business, we’re including our staff.”

Nathel & Nathel’s dedication to staff is demonstrated at its annual summer picnic. Held in a summer camp-type venue, about 500 staff and family members attend. This year’s event will be on August 20.

The all-day event includes games, swimming, entertainment and food throughout the day. The company runs busloads of people from Hunts Point to the picnic to ensure that everyone has transportation.

“It’s a great way for wives and husbands to learn about what their spouses do for our company and to bring everyone together,” added Nathel.

This year the company has added packaged salads to its line, which is an addition to its bulk leaf items. Its brands include Earthbound Farm, Fresh Express and VegPro.

“Convenience drives these salads,” said Nathel. “Produce department are now giving them a tremendous amount of space.”

The company added a potato and onion division a few years ago, which made it a full line house.

“It is doing extremely well, said Nathel. “Our organic line is also increasing tremendously. We just completed installation of two beautiful coolers for organics and salads. And we are looking to bring someone in to specifically run the organic program. If you’re going to do organics, you have to do it right.”