A Humble Vision
In 2000, Joel Ippolito and Ron Mondo founded Ippolito International in Salinas, California, with a humble vision. At first, the company focused on growing and selling Brussels sprouts. The company found its niche and then dramatically changed in the next two decades – now selling nearly 50 different products with conventional and organic operations.
“We started with an idea to just grow Brussels sprouts, green onions and leeks,” Ron said. “Since then, we became a fully integrated shipper. We grow our own crops, we harvest them, and we cool and ship [produce] in our own cooling facilities.”
Today, Ippolito International is North America’s largest supplier of fresh Brussels sprouts. This second-generation operation offers year-round supplies of vegetables, ranging from artichokes and cauliflower to cilantro and fresh salads.
Agricultural Roots
The founders have deep roots in agriculture. CEO Joel Ippolito joined his family’s produce business in 1974 and helped grow the operation before making the leap to start his own business.
Ron Mondo also grew up farming in his family’s tradition. As the son of Italian immigrants, he continues to play an active role in all aspects of the operation as they grow, pack and ship produce to customers across the U.S. and beyond.
“First, we plant by seed or transplant, and then after 80 to 85 days, the crop is ready for harvest,” Ron said.
Ron and his team have plenty of work to do throughout the year. Ippolito International sells both field-fresh vegetables like artichokes, asparagus and iceberg lettuce, and value-added products, such as halved or shredded Brussels sprouts and broccoli florets, which are pre-washed for convenience.
“Our main staples are the bulk commodities, so what you see on the grocery store shelf,” Ron said. “We also have a processing plant where we bring products in and they’re cleaned, chopped up and ready to eat.”
Pushing Toward Zero Waste
As Ippolito International has charted a course for growth, the company’s leaders have also pushed to create a more renewable, environmentally friendly business model.
By taking a closer look at packing and shipping operations, they have successfully reduced waste and carbon footprints. The company has moved from single-use containers to reusable plastic totes and bins, diverted organic byproducts from the packing operation and is reusing wood shipping pallets through a pilot program.
For Ron, lowering the carbon footprint and moving forward a zero-waste business has been an important effort. He said the benefits are clear, both in preserving the environment and ensuring that their business remains competitive in global food supply chains.
A Growing Partnership
Running a successful business in agriculture takes careful planning and a strong ability to capitalize on each new opportunity.
For Ippolito International, growing from a business that sold field-fresh produce to offering value-added products, as well as packing and shipping expertise to serve their customers’ needs, has led to remarkable growth.
As they expanded their products and services, Joel and Ron turned to American AgCredit to secure financing, bring on new equipment and preserve working capital.
“[American AgCredit] understands our financing needs,” Ron said. “They understand whether it’s cropping ground or equipment purchases. They have helped us to expand our operations and grow as a company.”
Mike Heisinger, their chief financial officer, said the combination of intuitive financial offerings and agricultural expertise has made for a rewarding relationship with American AgCredit over the years.
“American AgCredit understands agriculture and tailors its offerings as such,” Mike said. “Our partnership has allowed us to not only grow our business, but also focus on our operations, knowing that our banking needs are in good hands.”
This article was originally published by American AgCredit.
