Yakima, Wash.-based FirstFruits Farms says following its acquisition of Michigan-based Applewood Fresh Growers, and a large crop, it has added to its sales team to meet the demand of this growth.
Account managers Jake Zeutenhorst and Jeff Niesz have joined the company, according to a news release.
“The addition of Jake and Jeff to our team marks an exciting time for FirstFruits Farms,” Chuck Zeutenhorst, vice president of marketing for FirstFruits, said in the news release. “Their extensive industry experience and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our mission to deliver the highest quality produce to our customers.”
FirstFruits said Jake Zeutenhorst brings nine years of experience in sales account management, having worked in the apple and cherry industry his whole life.
“I look most forward to being part of a vertically integrated system with large volume capabilities to fulfill apple and cherry needs across America and globally,” Zeutenhorst said in the release. “FirstFruits Farms is home to a great group of individuals who make up an incredible team that gets you excited to go to work every day.”
Niesz has more than 20 years of experience in domestic fresh produce sales and account management, according to the release. FirstFruits said he will specialize in the development of retail accounts for apples, cherries and pears. The company added that he will bring a focus on customer-centric solutions and exceptional service to the sales team.
“I am excited to join the hard-working and creative team at FirstFruits Farms,” Niesz said in the release. “I admire their ethics and commitment to providing their customers with outstanding service.”