Two longstanding New Jersey produce companies come together, combining generations of relationships with expanded sourcing, distribution and fresh-cut capabilities

Agri Exotic Trading, an independent produce distributor and fresh-cut processor serving the New York/New Jersey foodservice market, announced the acquisition of Mellone Wholesale Produce of Hackensack, New Jersey.

The combination brings together two New Jersey produce businesses built on similar foundations: personalized service, strong customer relationships, quality products and a commitment to taking care of the customer.

Mellone Wholesale Produce has operated for over 80 years in the produce business, serving customers throughout Northern New Jersey and the New York market. Under Agri’s ownership, the Mellone team will remain in place, providing continuity for the customers it has served for generations.

“We have tremendous respect for what the Mellone team has built,” said Stu Kaminsky, owner of Agri Exotic Trading. “This isn’t simply about getting bigger. We’re bringing together two businesses that grew up in the same industry, in the same market, with very similar values.”

Mellone Wholesale Produce’s customers will continue to work with the people they know while gaining access to Agri’s broader sourcing capabilities, refrigerated warehousing and distribution infrastructure, extensive product offering and SQF-certified fresh-cut processing program.

“The produce business is still a relationship business,” Kaminsky added. “Customers want quality and consistency, but they also want someone who knows their business and responds when they need help. Our goal is to preserve that while putting more resources and capabilities behind the Mellone team.”

The acquisition represents another step in Agri’s continued investment in the New York/New Jersey foodservice market.

North Point Mergers and Acquisitions, Inc. served as the financial advisor to Agri Exotic Trading. Craig S. Peligri, Attorney at Law, served as the legal advisor to Agri Exotic Trading.

Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About Mellone Wholesale Produce

Mellone Wholesale Produce is a longtime Hackensack, New Jersey wholesale produce company whose roots trace to Carl Mellone & Sons. Across three generations, Mellone had built its reputation, serving customers with quality products, timely deliveries, competitive pricing and personal service.

About Agri Exotic Trading

Agri Exotic Trading is an independent wholesale produce distributor and fresh-cut processor headquartered in Clifton, New Jersey. Agri serves restaurants, hospitality groups, caterers and other foodservice operators throughout the New York/New Jersey market.

The company combines broad produce sourcing, refrigerated warehousing, a dedicated delivery fleet and SQF-certified fresh-cut processing with the responsive, relationship-driven service on which the company was built.

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