Traina Foods is expanding its sun-dried operations through its acquisition of Martin Farms. This expansion and succession demonstrates Traina Foods' commitment to keeping the fires of traditional Italian sun-drying burning bright.
"Bringing Martin Farms into our family and the next generation of Trainas into the operation isn't just about growth; it's about preserving a traditional craft that's been perfected under the California sun for generations," said Willie Traina, owner of Traina Foods.
Joe and Josephine Martin, the founders of Martin Farms in Patterson, California, have built a legacy of quality and innovation in the sun-dried tomato industry. "Our acquisition of Martin Farms allows us to double down on our commitment to sustainability and excellence," Traina said.
Left to right: Willie Traina, Josephine Martin, Joe Martin, Angelo Traina, Justin Traina.
Traina Foods, known for its range of sun-dried fruits including tomatoes, apricots, cherries, and berries, is poised to expand its sun-dried tomato offerings. Today it is still a keeper of the craft of traditionally sun-drying fruits on trays laid out in the California sun. This practice preserves the flavor and nutrient content of the fruit, yielding a superior product. Dehydration uses higher heat, drying fruit much faster and with less labor than sun drying, but cannot approach the distinctive quality of sun-dried fruit.
Grandsons of company founders Joe and Maria Traina and sons of owner Willie Traina, Angelo (procurement), and Justin (production planning, scheduling, and financial analysis) were both drawn back to their roots despite the lure of Silicon Valley careers after college.
Justin, Willie, and Angelo Traina with the sun-drying trays.
Both brothers spent summers working in the orchards, packing cherries and apricots. When they went away to college in the Bay Area, they were surprised by how fascinated their classmates seemed to be with the sun-dried fruit world that was just everyday life to them.
"I treat my job with so much more passion because I am so connected to everything I do," Angelo said. "It's my family's business, built over generations. I feel a real responsibility to the work, the legacy."
"I always knew that I ultimately wanted to be in the company. My dad was always saying 'Traina is always hiring.' This role is something that really fits my personality well. It's the ideal place for me to integrate my dedication to the family business with the business knowledge and perspective I've gained," said Justin.
For more information:
Vickie Traina
Traina Foods
Tel: +1 (415)264-5304
[email protected]
www.trainadriedfruit.com