More Ethnic Produce
As the area’s diversity grows and evolves, those on the produce market are no longer focused on only the demands of different ethnicities, but working with “adventurous shoppers” who wish to experience a broader range of cultural culinary options, says Maxwell. “It’s not so much about bringing new items into focus, though we’re always looking for new ones to introduce, it’s more about new ways to use these items to create excitement for consumers not accustomed to seeing or eating them.”
This is helped by cooking shows, social media marketing campaigns, and companies providing consumers with a wealth of preparation options and recipes. Prime examples include avocados, which continue to rack up sales, and mangos, one of the world’s most consumed fruits— just not in the United States.
MARKET FACTS
Philadelphia Wholesale Produce Market
The massive, cutting-edge Philadelphia Wholesale Produce Market (PWPM) delivers in every sense of the word for those who make their livelihood in fresh produce. “We have the most modern market in the world,” boasts Mark Levin, CEO of M. Levin & Company, Inc. It is also the largest such market in the world as well, at 700,000 square feet, and unlike some wholesale establishments, it is open to the public.Among the top achievements is an unbroken cold chain, with both the loading dock and sales floor kept at 50˚F every day, year-round. Merchants can further adjust temperatures in their individual warehouses to suit particular commodities. “If I were a shipper, this is where I would want to send produce,” says Levin. Not only can wholesalers keep product in premium condition, the market’s location is a huge advantage. It provides easy access to Canada and the tri-state area from where it rests in the northeast corridor.
Mike Maxwell, president of Procacci Bros. Sales Corporation, champions the market for its features as well: “We’re located near key ports, have optimal temperature control for product, and a great layout for customers to walk through.”
Contact Information
6700 Essington Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19153
Phone: (215) 336-3003
Email: info@pwpm.net
Website: www.pwpm.netHours of operation
Weekdays: 10:00 pm to 1:00 pm (anytime by appointment)
Peak hours: 4:00 am to 10:00 am
Sunday 10:00 am to Monday 1:00 pm
Closed Saturdays and July 4, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.
The PWPM is open to the public with a nominal fee based on vehicle size.
Todd Penza, in sales for Pinto Bros., Inc. at the market, is one of the wholesalers who has been selling mangos and observing a steady increase, due in part to consumer curiosity. “Our mangos have been growing; we’ve always specialized in them, and are finding that customers are more interested than before.” Among the varieties sold are Keitt, which Penza sources from growers in Puerto Rico.
