Tavilla Sales and Vision Import Group have joined forces in a new business called Vision Produce Partners of Texas to focus on fresh produce imports from Mexico.
The enterprise, in which Tavilla is the majority partner, entered into operation on 16 January with Ben Brittain taking on the position of executive vice-president and managing member.
Pharr, Texas–based outfit has also appointed two further partners: Raul Millan and Ron Cohen of Vision Import Group in New Jersey, according to a company press release.
The partnership will focus on imports from Mexico including mangoes and limes, which are primary products for both Tavilla Sales and Vision Import Group.
Other tropical fruit, carrots and related vegetables, Hispanic and chilli products will be offered on a seasonal basis.
“Our goal was to combine the various grower relationships we have in Mexico with the organisation which Brittain has developed in Mexico to benefit our combined customers and growers,” said Bill Vogel, president of Tavilla Sales.
While working with mango growers and packers in Michoacán and Jalisco, the group will be packing and shipping their own product to the US border from Chiapas, Oaxaca, Nayarit and Sinaloa, to supply during the entire Mexican season.
Proprietary mango brands “Van Gogh” and “Little Princess” will be the highlights of a nearly 4m-carton programme.
The firm said that Brittain brings extensive experience in sales, relations with Mexico growers, and management to the new venture.
He will also be supported by an experienced team: Mary Garza, office manager; Hugo Reza, on-site Mexico supervisor, and Ben Brittain Jr. in sales.
“Combining these talents, locations and experience is a rare opportunity where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts,” added Vogel.
“This is a win-win situation for us and our customers.”
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