Lipman Family Farms has added Jones & Church Farms of Unicoi, Tennessee to the Lipman farming network. This acquisition underscores the company's commitment to family farming, sustainable practices, and the expansion of fresh produce availability throughout the United States.
Jones & Church Farms aligns with Lipman's dedication to supporting family-run businesses and increasing production capacity. Established in 1975, Jones & Church Farms is now entering its third generation, continuing its legacy of growing romas and round tomatoes during the July-October growing season. By investing in this critical tomato season and location, Lipman is further committing to supplying stable, year-round produce to its customers.
Lucas Conran (left), Lipman farm manager, and Greg Church (right), previous owner of Jones & Church. Photos: Jones & Church Farms
Family farming is central to Lipman Family Farms' mission. Integrating Jones & Church Farms allows Lipman to honor the rich history and expertise of their local growing partnership. With family central to its culture, Lipman continues to acquire and support family-owned operations.
Jones & Church has been a close partner of Lipman since 1996 when they started buying and marketing their tomatoes after the opening of Custom Pak, the latter's repack operations. This partnership became instrumental in the company's seasonal supply in the East.
"The Jones & Church team has always provided top-quality product and been honorable and sincere partners, offering tomatoes between July-October," said Elyse Lipman, CEO at Lipman Family Farms. "Now, our companies and families are joining forces."
Renea Jones, daughter of Carl and Sue Jones of Jones & Church Farms.
Lipman is committed to investing in domestic farming and providing local produce year-round for fresh, reliable vegetable offerings. In addition to Tennessee, it continues to expand open-field acreage in Florida over the last year.
"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," said Elyse Lipman. "Family farming is in our DNA, and we are committed to supporting and growing with like-minded partners."
For more information:
Morgan Stuckert
Lipman Family Farms
Tel: +1 (239) 641-0088
[email protected]
http://www.lipmanfamilyfarms.com/