Four generations of success for Consalo Family Farms

Consalo Family Farms, which started four generations ago, is universally recognized in the New Jersey area for its dedication to growing healthy, quality fruit and vegetables.

The company has seen substantial growth over the past few years and is excited that 2023 is no different.

“2023 has been a huge year for us so far in expansion of acreage for conventional vegetables,” said Chelsea Consalo, executive vice president for the Vineland, NJ-based company. “We also have new acreage in organic vegetables that we will begin harvest on shortly. With our constant commitment to understanding that quality starts right on the farm, we ensure that the Consalo brand represents premium, superior produce.”

Consalo Family Farms considers investment into its farms, facilities and staff a must to remain competitive.

“My father Skip’s passion for growth is fueling our company in an amazing direction,” Consalo said. “We have done extensive research on varieties this year which has enabled us to plant smarter. This has already benefited us in terms of volume these first few weeks of the New Jersey season.”

The Consalo family has been in the produce industry since 1927.

“My great grandfather started our family business and as a farmer first and foremost, he brought his love for the land to everything he grew,” Consalo said. “As our company expanded, his reputation for fair dealing earned him the trust and confidence in an ever-widening market of satisfied customers. I represent my company’s fourth generation and our family is proud to be universally recognized for the values of leadership, dedication and family commitment.”

As New Jersey is one of the top 10 producers nationally for blueberries, spinach, squash and many other crops, the company finds it the perfect home.

“It’s unique geographic location makes transportation to retailers up and down the East Coast very easy,” Consalo said. “Timing wise, there is a great window of opportunity for many items with the season beginning in April and usually extending into November for some crops.” 

Areas where Consalo Family Farms have seen the most significant cost increases over the past year are in fertilizer, labor and packaging. This has impacted the company because passing these costs on to retailers and consumers can be tough. 

“We have continued to remain competitive because we are vertically integrated and have a complete picture of the market from the farm through shipping,” Consalo said.  “We are very fortunate to have continued to build and grow our family business since the 1920s. Many farms in New Jersey like ours are owned and operated by families that have been in the agriculture business for generations. Family pride, industry knowledge and dedication to farming make New Jersey farms excel at producing quality product year after year.”

As treasurer of the New Jersey Blueberry Growers Association, Consalo is aware of and assists with promotion of the Jersey Fresh local campaign. This includes the many billboards popping up around the state right now to promote in-season crops.

She’s excited about what’s ahead for 2023, as crops are looking strong.

“This year there were warmer temperatures throughout February and March which gave us the ability to begin harvesting product two to three weeks ahead of schedule,” Consalo said. “So far, quality is very good on radish, parsley, cilantro, spinach and kale. We have also started full production on lettuce and are expecting an early start on blueberries as well.”

Photo: Chelsea and Sarah Consalo