Supporting Family-Owned Businesses

Rooted in family tradition, AJ Produce’s history dates back to 1893 when the current owner’s great grandfather, Francesco, decided to come to the United States from Sicily. He peddled produce in order to make enough money to bring his family to America as well. Eventually, his son, Anton Jennaro, was able to help build what is now the current warehouse located in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. The company became the first wholesale produce company to own the largest refrigerated vehicles for transporting goods throughout the state.

Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin is now a proud partner of AJ Produce. Through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the food bank was given funding to purchase apples, oranges, potatoes, onions, celery, carrots, peaches, and squash from AJ Produce. These fresh fruits and vegetables get delivered right to our network partner pantries.

“Covid drastically changed our business model. We were very lopsided towards restaurants and schools. When Covid happened our business basically stopped. That is how our relationship started with Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin” explained Jamie Gruenke, the granddaughter of Anton Jennaro. “I had called and said I have all these trucks and employees not doing anything and I need help. Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin started placing orders and for that, I am very grateful.”

With only 28 employees, small family-owned businesses like AJ Produce were hit the hardest by the economic effects of the pandemic. Still in recovery, the wholesaler has a long way to go. “Rising costs have been a challenge like I have never seen. Labor, gas prices, and supplies are up over forty percent. Finding people who are able to work has also been challenging,” expressed Gruenke. “This partnership makes my job more rewarding. Our organization loves helping out when we can.”

Funding received through ARPA benefits everyone involved. By purchasing healthy products from AJ Produce, we are helping Gruenke’s family get back on their feet while setting the table for other Wisconsin families as well.

Learn about how Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin is supporting other small businesses here.

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