Consistency and quality help FPE thrive at Hunts Point Market
By
John Groh
Consistency and quality help FPE thrive at Hunts Point Market
Fierman Produce Exchange has long been a fixture in the New York produce scene, with deep roots at the Hunts Point Terminal Market, one of the largest and most influential distribution hubs in the country. Operating in this market puts FPE at the center of a fast-moving, highly competitive environment that demands both precision and consistency.
In New York, the pace is relentless, competition is intense and expectations are immediate. Buyers are highly informed and demand both quality and service without delay, leaving little room for error. At the same time, the scale and density of the market create significant opportunities for companies like FPE that can consistently deliver.
“The Hunts Point Market is one of the largest and most influential produce distribution centers in the country,” said Judy Fierman, executive vice president of FPE and a fourth-generation member of the family-owned company. “Being in the market allows us to serve a diverse customer base that can often be demanding.”
From independent retailers to foodservice operators, the Hunts Point Market is utilized by a broad spectrum of buyers who rely on consistent access to high-quality product. For FPE, success in this environment has been built on a clear and disciplined approach.
“Something that allows Fierman to thrive is our commitment to having the freshest and best quality product with competitive pricing,” said Fierman. “Our customers expect the best from us, and that is why they continue to come back day after day.”
Just as critical are the relationships the company has cultivated over time, both upstream and downstream. In a market where speed and reliability are essential, those partnerships often make the difference.
“Our relationships with our customers need to be strong, as do our relationships with our suppliers,” she said. “Both are critical since trust and reliability go a long way in this industry.”
On the innovation front, FPE has made meaningful progress with the rollout of its new app, which was launched last year and continues to gain traction across its customer base.
“The app has been going very well,” said Fierman. “We’ve seen strong momentum since the launch, and we have new customers wanting to sign up almost every week. The level of interest we’ve been seeing is very exciting and demonstrates that we are delivering real value.”
Designed with ease of use in mind, the platform is helping streamline the ordering process for customers while strengthening engagement.
“The app is very user-friendly — it was designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind,” she added. “That’s one of the reasons why our newer customers are adapting to it so well.”
Beyond operations and technology, FPE continues to invest in its people and its role within the broader produce community. Recently, both Fierman and her FPE colleague Scott Tepper were accepted into the Eastern Produce Council Leadership Class of 2026.
“Being accepted into the EPC Leadership Class is an honor and a very meaningful opportunity for me,” she said. “On a personal level, it allows me to grow as a leader, build lasting relationships and learn from people who have a passion for the produce industry.”
She also emphasized the professional value of the program and how it will benefit FPE moving forward.
“Professionally, this program provides valuable produce insight and leadership training that I can bring back to my own company,” she added. “I can’t wait to learn more and get started this year!”
FPE’s relationship with the EPC further underscores its dedication to industry engagement and collaboration.
“The Eastern Produce Council is an outstanding organization that Fierman Produce Exchange is proud to be a part of,” she said. “EPC brings together a great group of professionals that allows us to network, educate and build a strong community. Fierman will always support EPC and the events they put together.”