2 Prime Time International co-founders retire

The co-founders of Prime Time International have decided to pass the torch to their partners. 

Carl Sam Maggio and Mark Nickerson have retired from the La Quinta, Calif.-based grower and marketer of colored bell peppers, asparagus and other seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Maggio and Nickerson are known for having carved out a space in the bell pepper category.

“Carl Sam, Mark and the late Chuck Hodges founded our company in 1992 and are true titans of the produce industry. They made Prime Time into a leader in the bell pepper category, and we look forward to building upon their success,” Mike Way, managing partner, said in a news release. “Not only are Carl and Mark leaders in the industry, they are also generous in their support of our community and its many charitable organizations. We have learned a great deal from both men.”

Prime Time Managing Partners Mike Way and Jeff Taylor will embark on the next chapter of the 30-year-old company. They started working together at Sun World and transitioned to Prime Time in 1992 and 1994, respectfully, the release said.

“Although we are not related, we are family and it is time for the generations to transition so our company can continue to grow and prosper,” Taylor said in the release.

In March, Prime Time moved its headquarters to La Quinta, Calif., just a few miles from its original location in Coachella.

“We are excited to have our company in the La Quinta community and we are ready to meet the demands of the future,” Way said in the release. “The produce business is ever-changing and to survive, you must be prepared. Prime Time will continue to grow because of its solid foundation.”