Vidalia Sweet Produce is a trusted woman-owned farming company specializing in the production, shipping and sales of Vidalia sweet onions, as well as red and yellow onions. Operated by the leaders of Collins Family Farms with 44 years of experience, the company also handles watermelons and Vidalia sweet potatoes, though sweet onions account for 75 percent of total sales.

“As we head into spring and begin Vidalia onion season, the most exciting thing about our company is seeing our family business continue to grow in both people and purpose,” said Tina Collins, CEO of the Cobbtown, GA-based company. “Welcoming my son-in-law, John, into the company is such a blessing and makes this season even more meaningful. It is special to have more family joining the business and helping carry on what we have worked so hard to build.”

The company is also excited to continue offering the full range of services and products its customers have come to count on. 

“We take pride in providing all the bells and whistles in our program, making sure we deliver quality, reliability and the support our customers need,” Collins said. “Moving into this new season, we are thankful for the opportunity to grow, serve and continue building something strong for the future.”

When it comes to the success of the Vidalia onion program, Collins gives her husband, Ronny Collins, all the credit for producing a profitable crop. 

“His commitment and experience are a huge part of what makes it all possible,” she said. “He has taught me everything I know. As for my role, I oversee everything from start to finish. I help make sure all the moving parts come together, from the beginning stages of the season to the final product.” 

She added that to be successful in the category, it is important to understand that Vidalia onions carry a name people know and trust. 

“With that comes the responsibility to maintain supply, grow a mature, high-quality onion and do everything it takes to meet the needs of both the retailer and the consumer,” Collins said. “It’s about delivering a product that not only represents the Vidalia name well, but also satisfies the people selling it and the people enjoying it at the table.”

The upcoming crop is looking strong and Vidalia Sweet Produce is getting geared up to start on April 13. 

“Despite the cold winter we have had, I believe this year’s crop will be no different than last year in terms of quality and availability,” Collins said. “We expect an ample supply and are looking forward to a strong season.”

Of course, there are some challenges and each and every day is different. 

“You learn to face each hurdle as it comes and do everything you can to keep moving forward,” Collins said. “With costs continuing to increase year after year, one of the biggest challenges is still working to keep the product affordable for both the retailer and the consumer. It takes flexibility, persistence and a commitment to finding ways to make it work.”

That comes with being a strong partner to customers, which Collins noted starts with the best quality product and making on-time deliveries. 

“When you consistently do both, it makes my job easier and it makes their job easier too,” she said. “Strong relationships are built on trust, reliability and knowing you can count on one another season after season.”