“D’Arrigo New York was founded in New York City on July 4, 1948,” said Gabriela D’Arrigo, the longtime vice president of marketing and communications for the company. “We do not consider it to just be associated with the city and state but born there with the blood of the city running through our every fiber."

“We were one of the original firms on the lower west side of Manhattan that moved to Hunts Point in March of 1967. We are very much embedded in the history of the city itself and the produce industry that supplies not only the city, but also the surrounding tri-state area.”

She added that the company’s success comes from developing strong relationships with the domestic and international brands it represents and the retailers — and consumers — who depend on D’Arrigo New York to make sure fresh produce reach merchant’s shelves in a very timely fashion.

“We have exclusivity with well-established and well-known brands and companies that entrust us with their products to distribute to the greater tri-state area,” D’Arrigo said. “We allow our reputation that has been built over the last 75-plus years to speak for itself when it comes to any type of ‘self-promotion’ for the most part. In addition, we have adapted and utilized different marketing tools and methods to assist us as well in promotional activities. It is important to note that the words ‘New York’ are in our corporate name, so to us it is very important.”

As always, D’Arrigo emphasized how vital it is for retailers to get involved in the process and what that means to developing a stronger relationship with their consumers who are always interested in high-quality merchandise at a fair price.

“The biggest thing retailers can do is to make sure they stay educated and communicate with their suppliers and customers,” added D’Arrigo. “Retailers must also keep their finger on the pulse.”

As much as D’Arrigo talks about the opportunities of the New York area, she is just as quick to note how challenging it is to operate in the region, with its diverse population and a large number of independent retailers.

She also noted how important it is to work with growers and emphasize their products.

“There are several categories that are standard across the board such as apples, bananas, navels, lettuce, broccoli, potatoes and many others,” D’Arrigo said. “Each category has its own different varieties that gain popularity throughout the year based on the season. Summertime is very much when the fruit categories shine due to the warmer temperatures. Berries, peaches, nectarines, plums, melons are some of the popular items just to name a few. Our goal is to support our growers with their products that they send to us and make sure there is a wide and consistent variety for our customers as well.”

Maximizing sales can come from focusing on the key spring and summer holidays when consumers are looking to hold parties and big meals at their homes.

She suggested retailers, starting with Memorial Day weekend and continuing through Labor Day, make concerted efforts to build excitement about produce through signage and even in-store events.

How does D’Arrigo New York plan for the future and its goal to stay ahead of the curve. D’Arrigo said: “For us, gradual growth wins the race.”