Encounter with the renowned "Pumpkin Queen," Sarah Frey
In the vast landscape of American agriculture, one name stands out for her innovative approach and unwavering commitment to quality produce – Sarah Frey. The founder of Frey Farms, often referred to as the "Pumpkin Queen," has built an empire from humble beginnings on a small farm in Illinois.
Born into a farming family, Sarah Frey took the reins of the farm's operations at a young age, assuming responsibility as a single mother in her late teens following her father's passing. Despite the challenges, she diversified and scaled the business by growing and marketing fresh produce, especially strawberries and other fruits, directly to consumers. Today, Frey Farms is one of the largest independently owned produce farms in the US, a testament to Sarah's resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep roots in multi-generational family farming.
Sarah's unique approach to selling her products is rooted in empathy and a customer-centric mindset. She often approaches new ideas as a customer herself, ensuring that her offerings meet the needs and desires of her clientele. This approach, combined with her innovative farming methods, has earned Frey Farms global recognition for its fresh produce, including pumpkins, watermelons, and fresh-pressed juices.
However, Sarah Frey's journey was not without adversity. In the beginning, her unconventional approach to agriculture faced criticism. To overcome this, she had to be willing to disregard the naysayers who didn't understand her vision. Today, her resilience and pioneering spirit continue to inspire those in the industry.
As consumers become more aware and inclined to support American-grown products, there is a growing focus on supply chain transparency. Sarah Frey shares this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of consumer awareness and education when it comes to supporting American farmers. In light of the pandemic, this awareness has grown even stronger, as consumers are thinking more about the lack of transparency in America's agricultural industry.
Sarah Frey's story is a beacon of hope for those in the agricultural industry, demonstrating that with determination, innovation, and a customer-centric approach, it is possible to build a successful business while maintaining deep roots in family farming. Her book, "Growing Season: How I Built a New Life- And Saved an American Farm," offers a deeper look into her journey and is available for purchase. Sarah will be signing copies at Stanley Korshak on November 7th.
At Frey Farms, everything is rooted in family, and the company is family-centric. Sarah Frey shares that gardening with her family has provided a special bonding experience with her children. Her team, including Graphic Designer Ellie Lemak, who creates all of the graphics for print and web-related materials, reflects this family-focused ethos.
Despite over 50% of the fresh produce consumed in America being imported from other countries, Sarah Frey's story serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting American farmers. The cost of labor in the United States is nearly thirty percent of the cost of goods for farmers, making it hard for them to compete with imported produce. However, Sarah's success demonstrates that it is possible to thrive in the American agricultural industry with the right approach and a commitment to quality.
In a world where consumers are more connected to their food than ever before, Sarah Frey's story is a testament to the power of innovation, resilience, and a customer-centric approach in the agricultural industry. Her journey from a small family operation to a nationally recognized agricultural brand is a shining example of what can be achieved with determination, passion, and a focus on quality.
- Engaging in fall gardening, Sarah Frey cultivates valuable moments with her children, fostering a deeper bond that mirrors the family-centric ethos at Frey Farms.
- As consumers increasingly prioritize American-grown food-and-drink products, Sarah Frey's home-and-garden empire serves as an inspiration for others, demonstrating the importance of education-and-self-development for supporting American farmers.
- In a landscape marked by increasing connections between consumers and their food, Sarah Frey's innovative approach to agriculture stands out as a beacon of hope for those aspiring to create a successful lifestyle brand grounded in quality produce and family values.
