Ryeco builds on steady growth with service-driven approach in Philadelphia
Ryeco builds on steady growth with service-driven approach in Philadelphia
With more than four decades in the produce industry, Ryeco LLC continues to build on its reputation as a full-line distributor by focusing on consistent growth, strong customer relationships and a service-first mindset.
The Philadelphia-based company, which operates both within and beyond the Philadelphia Wholesale Produce Market, has seen a solid start to 2026 despite ongoing industry challenges.
“We’re seeing steady, consistent growth so far,” said Mike Reilly Jr. “It’s been challenging because of the high prices from the freeze in Florida, but we’re still selling the same kind of volume compared to last year, which has been really good for us.”
While higher prices have impacted the market overall, Ryeco has managed to maintain steady case movement, a sign of the strength of its customer base and diversified sourcing model.
Fuel costs, however, remain a concern across the operation.
“Fuel prices have been a challenge,” Reilly said. “They’ve affected things across the board, but we’ve worked to manage that as best we can.”
One of the key advantages for Ryeco is its location in Philadelphia, a city known for its diversity and strong demand for a wide range of produce items.
“We deal with so many different ethnic groups,” Reilly said. “Whether it’s Russian, Indian or Asian communities, we’re always finding new items that those customers want.”
That diversity drives sourcing decisions and helps the company stay ahead of trends by introducing new products tailored to specific customer needs.
The Philadelphia Wholesale Produce Market also plays a vital role in the company’s success, particularly when it comes to maintaining product quality.
“This market has been phenomenal for us because we don’t break the cold chain,” Reilly said. “That’s really important for shelf life and for our customers.”
In addition to its on-market presence, Ryeco has built a strong off-market distribution network, with a fleet of trucks delivering product throughout the region.
“We move about 150 loads a week,” Reilly said. “Between what we do on the market and what we deliver off the market, it allows us to really support both our customers and our growers.”
That ability to move volume efficiently also strengthens relationships with suppliers.
“When there’s a flush, we can move the volume growers need, and when there’s a shortage, we can help get the higher prices they need,” Reilly said.
Among the company’s key categories in 2026 are tomatoes, which have seen strong market activity following supply disruptions earlier in the year.
Ryeco’s ability to capitalize on market conditions is closely tied to its core philosophy of service, which Reilly describes as a defining characteristic of the company.
“That ‘never say no’ approach is how we built this business,” he said. “We work Saturdays, we work holidays, and we make sure we’re there for our customers whenever they need us.”
That commitment extends throughout the organization, from leadership to warehouse staff and drivers.
“It starts at the top and goes through the whole team,” Reilly said. “They’re committed to our customers, our growers and each other.”
Looking ahead, Ryeco is investing in new capabilities to support continued growth, including expanded facilities and value-added services.
“We’re adding a bagging line for citrus and expanding our operations with a 52,000-square-foot refrigerated warehouse,” Reilly said. “That’s going to help us offer more to our customers.”
The company is also focused on growing its presence beyond the market through its outside sales team.
“We have a dedicated outside sales group, and that’s been a big focus for us as we look to expand,” Reilly said. “We’re just going to keep pushing forward. That’s what’s gotten us here, and that’s what will keep us growing.”
