Editor’s note: The following profile is from the 2023 Packer 25, our annual tribute to 25 leaders, innovators and agents of change across the fresh produce supply chain. (You can view all honorees here.) This feature has been edited for length and clarity.
Bob Harrington — President, Specialty Produce
What do you consider the most critical aspects of developing and maintaining relationships with your foodservice customers and retail consumers?
The critical aspects of maintaining and supporting relationships are providing personalized service, frequency and variety. At Specialty Produce, we offer more than just fresh fruits and vegetables; we also share product knowledge. Every item we sell has been researched, and we offer chefs and retail consumers the experience of learning something new while sourcing quality ingredients.
If you could speak to your past self at the beginning of your career, what is something you’ve learned during your professional journey that you would share?
I would encourage my past self to not place so much weight on the decisions I am making for today and focus on the choices I am making for tomorrow. Today is already determined, but tomorrow is open and undefined. Think ahead, learn, observe and solve future problems before they arise to make a true impact.
More about Bob Harrington
Bob Harrington is the president of Specialty Produce, a family-owned wholesale produce company in San Diego since 1989. Specialty Produce is a culinary destination for chefs, foodies and retail consumers, and under Harrington’s leadership, the company has a grassroots heartbeat mixed with a global vision.
Throughout his career, Harrington says he has understood the importance of planning for tomorrow, and along with his wholesale company, he has created a digital platform to connect industry professionals, forecast trends in produce and share the story of fruits and vegetables. The Specialty Produce app has been shaped through decades of international travel, discussions with experts and harnessing the power of evolving technology.
Harrington continues to care for the San Diego community through sourcing fresh ingredients, and his presence is recognized worldwide as an advocate for produce professionals.
