Lipman Family Farms says it has added Jones & Church Farms of Unicoi, Tenn., to its farming network.
Jones & Church Farms aligns with Lipman’s dedication to supporting family-run businesses and increasing production capacity, according to a news release.
Established in 1975, Jones & Church Farms is now entering its third generation, continuing its legacy of growing romas and round tomatoes during the July to October growing season. By investing in this critical tomato season and location, Lipman Family Farms said it is doubling down on its commitment to supplying stable, year-round produce to its customers.
Lipman Family Farms said integrating Jones & Church Farms allows it to honor the rich history and expertise of their local growing partnership.
Jones & Church Farms has been a partner of Lipman Family Farms since 1996 when it started buying and marketing tomatoes after the opening of Custom Pak, Lipman’s repack operations. The partnership became instrumental in Lipman’s seasonal supply in the East, making it the first local growing partner with key customers during the summer months, according to the release.
“The Jones & Church team has always provided top-quality product and been honorable and sincere partners, offering the best tomatoes in the country between the months of July-October,” Lipman Family Farms CEO Elyse Lipman said in the release. “Now, our companies and families are joining forces. Together as Lipman, we are positioned stronger than ever to provide year-round supply to our customers with an expert team.”
Lipman Family Farms said it is committed to investing in domestic farming and providing local produce year-round for fresh,reliable vegetable offerings. In addition to Tennessee, the company continues to expand open-field acreage in Florida over the last year, the release said.
“This partnership is a wonderful continuation of my father’s legacy,” said Renea Jones, whose parents, Carl and Sue Jones, started Jones & Church alongside Buckley and Charlene Church. “Our families have shared values and a deep respect for the land and community, making this union a perfect fit. We are excited about the future and the opportunities it brings for our farm and the local community.”
“We look forward to becoming an integral part of the Tennessee farming community,” Lipman said. “Family farming is in our DNA, and we are committed to supporting and growing with like-minded partners who share our values.”
