Key Takeaways
- Martori Farms has acquired the assets of V.H. Azhderian & Co., a long-standing melon grower and distributor.
- The acquisition expands the company’s operations into California’s San Joaquin Valley, a key agricultural region.
- Berj Moosekian, former leader of the Azhderian family business, will join Martori as Director of California Agricultural Operations.
- The Los Banos facility will be integrated into the company's operations to enhance cooling, storage, and distribution capabilities.
- The acquisition strengthens Martori Farms’ ability to supply premium melons nationwide under the Kandy label.
Martori Farms Expansion into California’s San Joaquin Valley
Martori Farms has announced the acquisition of the assets of V.H. Azhderian & Co., a historic melon-growing company, marking an expansion into California’s San Joaquin Valley. The San Joaquin Valley, known for its fertile soil and ideal growing conditions, will now play a key role in Martori Farms' melon production and distribution network.
“We are honored to carry forward the legacy of V.H. Azhderian & Co. and to expand our footprint in California's premier melon-growing region,” said Steve Martori, CEO of Martori Farms.
V.H. Azhderian & Co.: A Legacy of Melon Farming
Founded in 1915 by V.H. Azhderian, the company has been a major player in the melon industry for over a century. Over the years, it operated in several key locations, including Holtville, Turlock, Dos Palos, and Los Banos, becoming well known for its Three Star label melons.
With a reputation for quality and innovation, V.H. Azhderian & Co. was one of the longest-running melon operations in Los Banos, CA, contributing significantly to melon packing and shipping advancements.
Berj Moosekian to Lead California Operations
As part of the acquisition, Berj Moosekian, a longtime leader in the Azhderian family business, will join Martori Farms as Director of California Agricultural Operations.
Moosekian has been involved in managing the family’s melon operations since the mid-1990s, bringing decades of experience to his new role. His leadership will focus on overseeing Martori Farms' expansion in California and ensuring a smooth transition for the Los Banos facility.
Enhancing Production and Distribution Capabilities
Martori Farms plans to integrate the Los Banos facility into its operations, with a focus on:
- Improving cooling, storage, and distribution efficiency.
- Expanding production capacity to meet growing demand.
- Ensuring high-quality melon supply under the Kandy label.
