Scaling In The Produce Industry | Interview with Frank Dandrea

How do you grow a family business into a nationwide leader in the produce industry while staying true to your roots? In this episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, Bill Barrett sits down with Frank Dandrea, president of Dandrea Produce. For over 25 years, Frank has led this fourth-generation family business, founded in 1917, transforming it into one of the East Coast's top growers and distributors of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Frank shares the story of his journey, from joining the family business in his 20s to spearheading innovations like global sourcing, streamlined logistics, and the launch of Greenlane, a direct-to-home delivery service for fresh produce. He reflects on the challenges of scaling a business in the volatile world of agriculture, the lessons learned from his mentors, and the philosophy that has driven Dandrea Produce’s long-standing success: collaboration and a commitment to quality.
Whether you're a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the inner workings of the produce industry, this episode offers invaluable insights into leadership, resilience, and the power of staying ahead of the curve. Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
Why working collaboratively in business creates success for all involved
How Dandrea Produce scaled from a local family farm to a global distribution network
The challenges and opportunities of launching Greenlane, a direct-to-home delivery service
The importance of mentors and fostering a strong work ethic
Why agriculture is more than a business-it's a lifestyle built on dedication
And much more…
Resources:
Dandreaproduce.com
Greenlanedelivery.com