In the 23 years that IPR Fresh has been in business, the company has carved out a strong niche supplying premium Mexican produce — with a particular emphasis on greenhouse-grown colored Bell peppers — to customers throughout North America. Now, the Nogales, AZ-based company is focused on an ambitious growth strategy aimed at significantly expanding sales over the next five years.

Mark Munger, a veteran produce marketing executive who joined the company earlier this year as vice president of marketing and business development, told The Produce News that IPR Fresh is actively exploring opportunities to support that growth, including expanding its grower network to further strengthen its position as a year-round supplier.

“We’re expanding our outreach and looking to connect with new growers to increase supplies during our summer season, which is currently our lowest-volume period,” he said. “This year, we’re laying the foundation for growth in 2027 and beyond.”

Munger added that IPR Fresh is also focused on strengthening its logistics capabilities as part of its long-term growth strategy, ensuring the company can continue delivering reliable service and supply solutions to customers across North America.

“It can be challenging to secure drivers into Nogales during certain times of the year, particularly in August,” he said. “We want to build the infrastructure that supports our growth while also creating dependable logistical solutions for our customers. We’re having a lot of productive conversations as we evaluate opportunities for the future.”

In addition to expanding its grower base, Munger said IPR Fresh is also focused on diversifying its customer portfolio, including building stronger direct relationships with retailers and foodservice operators.

“We’re evaluating opportunities to add complementary items that create additional value for our clients. Many customers today are looking for dependable year-round supply partners, which is why we are placing so much emphasis on strengthening our summer production,” he said, adding that IPR Fresh is already recognized as a leading greenhouse Bell pepper supplier during the winter months.

At the same time, Munger emphasized the importance of maintaining the strong relationships that have helped build the company’s success.

“We have outstanding customers who have played an important role in helping us get to where we are today, and maintaining those relationships remains extremely important to us as we continue to grow,” he said.

For his own part, Munger said he continues to be impressed by the sophistication and innovation within the Mexican produce industry.

“The people are fantastic, and the growing operations in Mexico are incredibly advanced from both a technology and quality standpoint,” he said. “We are fortunate to be partnered with some of the best growers in the industry. The more immersed I become in the Mexican produce sector, the more excited I am about the opportunities ahead and our plans for growth.”