“In the produce business, there are new challenges every day and we need to stay ahead of the curve,” said Jimmy Myrick, a company vice president and second-generation operator of the business. “Our philosophy is to take the challenges head on, work hard to understand what they are and come up with solutions that will make sense for our growers and our customers.”
Jimmy Myrick said that the team, including his brother Edward Jr., has one big advantage: Edward Sr., his father, is still involved in the family business at the age of 86 and comes into the office just every day. “His presence in the office, his experience in the produce industry and his expertise sets a great example for everyone here on what it takes to be successful in life and at our company,” Jimmy said. “He listens to each situation and gives us so much great advice on how to handle each and every one. My dad has probably forgotten more about produce than anyone else here knows and that is a big key to our success.”
Jimmy, who joined the company more than 30 years ago straight out of college, also credits his total team at Myrick. “We are very lucky to have a great team that works for us here, who are dedicated to their jobs and work hard for us every day,” he added. “Frankly, we are blessed to have a great staff that knows what needs to be done and has a great work ethic.”
Working with great farmers throughout the state of Florida and a couple in Honduras also plays a big role. “We had a good growing season as far as weather goes,” Jimmy noted. “We had good weather all winter and a good crop in Florida, but our farmers still have to deal with labor and pricing issues, especially with the competition that comes from Mexico.
“We have to do our part,” he said, noting that the company represents about 25 farmers. “We try to develop stronger relationships with existing customers and are always on the lookout for new customers. They key is offering great product and service because we know that is what the customer wants. We also want to diversify a bit and get the most for our farmers.”
That is also why everyone at Myrick always puts the farmers first. “We remain a very farmer-focused operation,” he said. “Yes, we respect and listen to our customers and what they need, but our farmers are very important to us, so we try to secure the best pricing and distribution for them. We work hard to find that balance for what they both need and that they are happy in the end. We listen to our farmers, what they need and what ideas they have to maximize sales and profits.”
While Myrick has always focused on cucumbers, peppers, squash and winter squash, green beans, eggplant, pickles, hot peppers and strawberries, Jimmy Myrick said cabbage is getting a lot of attention these days and will in the future.
“I still think the future is bright,” he said. “We are making new relationships with farmers and customers, adding new salespeople and just getting larger as a company. Cabbage is becoming a larger item for us and we expect that to continue. We continue to move in the right direction and we are proud of that.”
