Nate Stone, chief operating officer for Ben B. Schwartz & Sons Inc., in Detroit, MI, told The Produce News that the company has the absolute perfect combination of management and staff, which results in things moving along flawlessly.

Chris Billmeyer, the company’s president and chief executive officer is the third generation to own and operate the company. His son, Jake Billmeyer, joined the company in 2009, and is working in numerous capacities to learn about every function of the business.

“Chris doesn’t seem to tire, and I hardly remember a week that he hasn’t worked seven days,” said Mr. Stone. “He has always been highly motivated, and it seems that he’s even more motivated since Jake joined the company in 2009.

Jake Billmeyer graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, and immediately went to work in the company.

“Jake is a natural,” said Mr. Stone. “He’s as motivated as his father, and that helps to inspire the other young people we have on our staff today. Having him here with Chris adds another dimension to our business.”

Jake Billmeyer is just one of three young employees at Ben B. Schwartz who are following in their parent’s footsteps by working for the company, giving resonance to the term, “chip off the old block.”

Matthew Lombardi’s son, Armond Lombardi, is following in his father’s footsteps working in sales and buying. Mr. Stone’s son, Kyle, is also among the new generation. In fact, today the bulk of Ben B. Schwartz’s employees are in their early and mid-30s. These young superstars came into the business with expansive knowledge in technology, which has helped to push the company forward quickly

Kyle Stone has become deeply immersed in the produce industry in the few years he’s been with the firm. He recently graduated from the 2012 PMA Foundation Emerging Leaders program. He served on the 2012 PMA Fresh Summit committee, and he will serve on the committee again for the 2013 expo.

His responsibilities at Ben B. Schwartz include food safety, traceability and the operation of the entire company, which includes eight coolers, a warehouse, banking and the coordination of international imports. He also organizes participation in food shows and he maintains and improves the company’s website.

“We have next to no staff turnover,” said Mr. Stone. “No one wants to leave the company once they are hired. That gives the older generation an opportunity to help the younger people become more experienced and educated about the business.”

Ben B. Schwartz carries a full line of fruits and vegetables, including tropical and exotic items. Mr. Stone said that food networks and cooking segments are helping the produce industry tremendously today.

“People are trying new items, and as new cultures move in they bring their food choices with them,” said Mr. Stone. “People are having fun with food today, and we in the industry reap the benefits. And even if they don’t know it, people are eating more fruits and vegetables today. Usage has increased in school systems and in restaurants, for example. It’s good to be in an industry that buys and sells products that ultimately benefit consumers due to the health and nutritional aspects.”