Consalo Family Farms/Freshwave Produce has hired Brad Cantwell and Pepe Martinez to its produce family. Together they bring a combined 65 years of experience in the fresh produce industry. Their roles at the company will see them create and expand a new deciduous fruit importing operation.

Using established global partnerships they have cultivated throughout their careers, Cantwell and Martinez will add new products that will complement the Consalo family's existing portfolio. Their connections to growers from Peru, Argentina, Chile, Brazil and South Africa will offer incredible opportunities to service and supply the Consalo's already strong customer base.

Cantwell is a leader in the industry with over 35 years of experience, a majority of which he spent at Dole Fresh Fruit as the vice president of deciduous fruit in North America. More recently, he worked with Sierra Produce as the vice president of sales. His extensive career has seen him create and manage commodity portfolios worth over $200 million.

Martinez is a key player in international grower relations with 30 years of experience in quality control and post-harvest management. He has worked with growers in South America, Europe, and California handling a multitude of different fruit varieties. Martinez is also trained and certified in both FSMA and FSVP food-safety protocols and laws.

Cantwell and Martinez have worked together for 30 years. Their partnership has created a network of growers, brokers, and retailers that spans three continents.

Cantwell's experience with Dole and Sierra, and his ability to manage the import business along with Martinez's experience in grower relations, food safety, quality control, and agronomy will enhance the overall strength of The Consalo family's business. "We are very excited to have them join us and look forward to expanding our business together," said Skip Consalo, president of Consalo Family Farms.