Gumz Farms increasing packing facility
Gumz Farms increasing packing facility
Growing in the rich, organic muck soils of Wisconsin’s Marquette, Columbia, Sauk and Adams counties, Gumz Farms has a legacy of four generations of family ownership behind it. The Endeavor, WI-based company grows red and yellow potatoes, grows and sources yellow, white, red and sweet onions, and packs and ships all year-round.
“Wisconsin potatoes are a smart option because we are able to fulfill the consumer’s demand for local produce,” said Rod Gumz, part owner, along with Richard Gumz. The farm grows about 1,200 acres of red and yellow potatoes for the fresh market.
“We grow about 20 percent of the fresh market red potatoes in Wisconsin and also produce yellow potatoes,” Gumz said. “This segment represents a significant portion of our business. Success in this category hinges on trust and reliability. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional products on time and at a fair price, while consistently maintaining top-notch quality.”
Last year, red and yellow potatoes performed well, with stable supply and increasing demand for yellows.
“Our consistent supply has strengthened demand over the years, allowing us to meet our customers’ needs effectively,” Gumz said. “We’re excited about this year’s crop, which is looking promising. Harvest season is always a highlight for us, and we’re looking forward to a successful season.”
Over the years, the company has seen a rise in demand for yellow potatoes, leading Gumz Farms to increase the yellow acreage.
“Smaller pack sizes have also become more popular,” Gumz said. “We’re known for growing, harvesting, storing and packaging premium-quality potatoes, which has enabled us to continually invest in our facilities to meet the increasing demand while maintaining a high-quality product.”
This summer, Gumz Farms will be completing a remodel that increases its packing capacity, allowing the company to be more responsive and manage future growth.
With an average increase of 10 percent in annual sales, the expansion will increase existing capacity by approximately 40 percent.
Most of Gumz Farms’ products go to retail customers that value locally grown produce and knowing their food’s origin.
“These customers appreciate reliable supply, on-time deliveries and good communication,” Gumz said. “We strive to be a trusted partner in the industry.”
He feels the biggest opportunity for growth lies in being prepared to seize new opportunities as they arise.
“We believe that good luck is where preparation meets opportunity,” Gumz said. “We’ve witnessed a growing interest in yellow potatoes and a rising demand for bags of smaller-sized yellow and red potatoes. This trend has been exciting for us and adds to our continual growth.”
For its retail partners looking to increase sales of Wisconsin potatoes, Gumz feels calling out the local aspect would do wonders.
“Stores can significantly enhance their sales by highlighting the origins of their products and giving priority to locally grown produce,” Gumz said. “By educating consumers about the source of their food, they can create a more meaningful and engaging shopping experience, fostering a deeper connection and trust with their customers.”
Photo: Richard and Roderick Gumz.
