The strength of Naturipe Berry Growers is the strength of our Growers.
Our growers are at the heart of Naturipe Berry Growers’ success, ensuring the production of consistently high-quality berries through sustainable farming practices and generational expertise. Our shared commitment to innovation and land stewardship is key to producing the freshest, most flavorful berries, while prioritizing environmental responsibility and community service.
the Ito Family
For nearly 50 years, Ito Brothers has been a key player in our strawberry supply chain, known for their dedication to quality and tradition. Their farming legacy began in the late 1960s with George Ito’s grandfather under G. Ito and Sons, and has been passed down through generations. Now, George, his brother Henry, and their sons Steven and Dylan carry on the tradition as third and fourth-generation farmers. Their farms in Oxnard, Camarillo, and Ventura, near the cool Pacific coast, produce some of the sweetest, most delicious strawberries around.
the Contreras Family
From its humble beginnings in 1988 as a modest 1.5-acre farm, the Contreras family’s enterprise has flourished into a sprawling operation spanning over 230 acres. Homero, his wife Angelica, and all three of his children are deeply involved in the operation. Based in Santa Maria, California, the family is celebrated for its unwavering dedication to producing top-quality, flavorful strawberries for Naturipe Farms.
the Mendoza Family
At 15, Jose Mendoza left his home in Michoacan, Mexico, to work as a strawberry picker in Salinas, CA. He promised his mom a new stove upon his return. Today, his mom has that stove, and Jose and his family are cultivating their own land to grow vibrant and sweet strawberries. His son, Ignacio, carries the legacy forward, expanding the family business with determination, dedication, and passion. This Mendoza family story is one of hard work and perseverance that not only shines brightly but inspires future generations to dream big and nurture their roots.
the Garcia Family
In an often male-dominated industry, Alma Garcia dreamed of growing her own strawberries. She began her journey in 2011 with just three acres. Through relentless hard work and dedication, her farm spans over 60 acres in Salinas, CA. Today, with the help of her four sons – Enrique, Gabriel, Brian, and Yaretzi – Alma proudly operates Garcia and Sons Berry Farms. Their family business stands as a testament to Alma’s dream and the collective effort of her family.
Interested in joining our family?
With over 150 grower partners and counting, Naturipe Berry Growers is a leader in cultivating relationships that produce high-impact results for you, your business, our industry, and the community at large.
It starts with our foundation as a grower-owned cooperative. Our mantra, “Grower First,” is a testament to having you, the grower, at the heart of everything we do.
Among the many things about NBG that work to your advantage is our commitment to superior genetics. The result is high-quality strawberries with exceptional taste, size, disease resistance, and more. The breeding process is meticulous and can take time to perfect, but the results speak for themselves: high yields, remarkable fruit quality, and a flavor profile that has consumers coming back for more.
It’s all a reflection of our long-term approach, and speaks to the value we place on your success.
