Industry veteran joins Grant J. Hunt Co.

A product of a farming background, Derin Benson has over a decade of experience in produce sales and marketing.

Derin Benson
Derin Benson
(Photo courtesy of Grant J. Hunt Co.)

Grant J. Hunt Co. has added Derin Benson to its sales team.

A product of a farming background, Benson has over a decade of experience in produce sales and marketing, particularly with fresh apples, pears and cherries during his tenure with Chelan Fresh in Washington state, according to the release.

“I love the produce industry,” Benson said in the release. “My family has a strong, multigenerational history in Washington’s tree fruits, and I am thrilled to bring that passion to the Grant J. Hunt Co.”

Benson said he looks forward to broadening his product knowledge and expanding his expertise to encompass additional Pacific Northwest crops.

“I’ll be delving into many other items that are grown in the Pacific Northwest such as potatoes, onions, berries and more,” he said.

Approaching a 90-year milestone

Grant J. Hunt Co. will celebrate its 90th anniversary in 2024.

Established in 1934, the company says it has built a reputation as an outstanding supplier of a diverse range of both year-round and seasonal products. From apples, pears, and cherries to potatoes, onions, berries, cranberries, melons, Italian Chestnuts, and citrus, the company is renowned for its commitment to quality, the release said.

The Grant J. Hunt Co., which was acquired by GrubMarket in 2021, has an office and warehouse headquartered in Oakland, Calif., with additional offices in Yakima, Wash., and Seattle.

“Our team is expanding, and in today’s dynamic produce landscape, having individuals who are not only skilled but passionate about their careers is crucial,” Sal Rizzo, general manager for the Grant J. Hunt Co., said in the release. “Derin certainly embodies both qualities, boasting a stellar reputation in the industry. We are thrilled to have him as an integral part of our growing team.”

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