Lipman Sets Sights On Southwest With Latest Acquisition
June 1, 2012 Immokalee, FL-based Lipman has acquired Combs Produce, a tomato re-packer and fresh produce distributor in Dallas, TX. The newly acquired company will join Lipman’s nationwide network of farming, packing, repacking, and processing companies.
“The Southwest market is a key component of our growth plan,” said Kent Shoemaker, CEO of Lipman. “Combs Produce was our first choice and simply the perfect fit. They are highly respected in the fresh produce industry and share our core values. We are confident their customers will benefit from our farming company.”
Founded in 1958 by J.C. Combs, Combs Produce has grown to be the largest tomato repacker in the Southwest region. Over the last four decades, the company evolved into a full-line produce distributor.
“There is tremendous opportunity in our region,” said Brett Combs. “Our people have provided first-rate customer service that has allowed us to grow. By becoming a part of Lipman, we will have ‘access to the acre.’ Our customers want to deal directly with farmers, and now we are part of a farming company.”
Brett Combs, grandson of the founder, has been part of the company leadership since 1990. After the acquisition, he will serve as general manager of the Dallas facility.
This acquisition is Lipman’s third in six months and expands the company’s reach in Texas, as well as Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Arkansas.