Federal Fruit and Produce (Federal) is a Colorado corporation which is composed of two divisions, one located in Denver, and the other in Colorado Springs. The Denver division is engaged completely in the wholesale distribution of produce, and is the largest produce wholesaler in the State.

It's customers include the area's large grocery chain stores, smaller specialty grocery stores, local foodservice distributors, national food service distributors, school districts and universities, large restaurant chains, and small "mom and pop" type restaurants. The Denver division, fully serves the produce needs of hundreds of customers, supplying a broad spectrum of items from the common Apples and Bananas, to specialty items such as Portobello Mushrooms, Quinces, or Cactus Pears. The Denver Division currently employs approximately 90 people, and has sales approximating $50 million annually.

The Colorado Springs Division (Federal Food Service) is engaged not only in the wholesale distribution of produce, but also the sale of canned and frozen foods, meats, paper goods, and other grocery type items. The Springs sells to the same type of customers as Denver, but because of the additional grocery store items, there is somewhat more emphasis on restaurants, hotels, and other customers which utilize these types of goods. The Colorado Springs Division employs 40 people, and has sales of $10 million annually.

History

"Federal Fruit Incorporated" came into being in 1935, operating as one of the many small fruit and produce distributors in the bustling Denargo Market area. In 1945 Joseph Naimen, a young veteran just returning home from the Second World War, acquired the assets of "Federal Fruit Incorporated," and commenced operations on January 5, 1946 as Federal Fruit and Produce.

The business was conducted as a proprietorship until January 30, 1970, at which time it was incorporated under the laws of Colorado. In 1977 the purchase of a warehouse in Colorado Springs from the defunct "Joselyn Fruit co." marked the company's expansion to the rapidly growing Pueblo and Colorado Springs markets.

In 1987, after almost a half century of dedication, Joe Naimen decided to retire. After many months of trying to find someone capable and experienced enough to run the company in a way that would ensure its longevity, the company was purchased by a group of 3 people, two of which had over 30 years combined experience in the produce industry, and one who had vast financial and management experience, spending much of his life in the role of Senior Vice President for the countries largest food companies.

On November 2, 1987 the new owners took over, and the company has continued its impressive record of growth and profitability, ultimately culminating in the construction of a new facility on August 16th 1997.