Business is solid as a rock for Detroit-based Rocky Produce
Business is solid as a rock for Detroit-based Rocky Produce
With new additions to its sales staff, exceptionally high food-safety scores and increased optimism about the economy, things are only looking up for Detroit-based Rocky Produce.
“A lot of people weren’t so sure how things were going to shake out a few years back,” said Dominic Russo, buyer and sales associate for Rocky Produce, located on the Detroit Produce Terminal.
“But now that the city of Detroit is out of bankruptcy, its economy is really strong. It’s roaring as far as new developments go, and it looks very promising. It’s the hot spot in the country right now.”
Adding to his optimism, Russo noted, is the large number of restaurants opening up in the city limits of Detroit, which is attracting a lot more people and is helping the food economy by way of food service.
“It’s a great spot in the country, whereas just a couple of years ago, it was the worst,” Russo said. “So everything going on here is extremely exciting.”
And the excitement continues as Rocky Produce welcomes its third generation of family members to take on more responsibility at the company.
Russo’s cousin, Mario Russo, who has been with Rocky Produce for about 10 years, was recently promoted to the sales staff in early January.
“We’re excited to have him along,” Russo said. “We have a large family business and the next generation is coming up.”
Keeping produce in the family is important to the company, Russo added.
“It’s been a great opportunity for family members to enter the business and be a contributing factor,” he said. “Any time there’s somebody that’s able and willing, we’re definitely open to working with them and bringing them up.”
In other company news, Rocky Produce recently completed its food-safety audit, which Russo noted it scored “exceptionally high” on.
“We make sure we maintain and exceed what’s expected in that department,” he added.
As for the year ahead, Rocky Produce is looking forward to a strong Chilean fruit season, which Russo said is already well on its way, as well as Florida strawberries, California citrus and imports from Spain.
“We are trying to buy the best quality produce at the best price and provide that for our customers,” Russo said. “Good relationships with our growers and shippers, and good relationships with our customers, is what it’s all about.”
