Potandon Strengthens Grower Network Under New Alliance Structure Potandon Produce LLC, exclusive marketer of Green Giant FreshR potatoes and onions, has unveiled the Potandon Grower Alliance, a strategic initiative uniting a core network of grower partners around shared commitments to quality, innovation, and long-term growth. The move marks a milestone in the company's ongoing transformation under Chief Executive Officer Des Hague. By deepening relationships with industry-leading growers, Potandon aims to reinforce consistency and value across its supply chain—from field to retail shelf—while serving retailers, foodservice operators, and consumers across North America.
Hague Emphasizes Quality as Core Differentiator "Over the past several months, I've had the privilege of personally meeting with each of our grower partners because our growers are the foundation of everything we do," Hague said. "We are entrusted with one of the most recognized brands in fresh produce, and that responsibility begins in the field. Every decision we make must protect and strengthen that trust." Hague outlined the alliance's philosophy bluntly: "We have an unwavering commitment to quality. Quite simply, what others accept, we reject." According to Hague, every grower selected for the alliance shares this mindset. "Every grower selected for the Potandon Grower Alliance shares that same mindset. Their passion, integrity and relentless pursuit of excellence are truly inspiring. We've established a strong core alliance built around shared values and an uncompromising commitment to quality. As we continue to grow, we'll thoughtfully welcome additional premier grower partners who share that same vision, helping us strengthen the Alliance while continuing to raise the bar for our customers, consumers and the industry."
Founding Members Signal Confidence Founding members include established operations with deep roots in the sector.
Shawn Walters, CEO and Owner of Walters Produce, said: "Our family has been growing and packing potatoes for over 100 years. We embrace the changing nature of this industry, and we're proud to be a founding member of the Potandon Grower Alliance. Des brings tremendous energy, vision and accountability to the business, and we're excited to work side by side as we build our futures together." Jared Balcom, Managing Member of B&B Potato, noted: "Strong partnerships are built on trust, shared values and a commitment to continuous improvement. The vision Des and the Potandon team have established is one we believe in, and we're proud to be part of an Alliance committed to quality, innovation and long-term success." Kevin Johns, CEO of Idaho Select, added: "Potandon's renewed focus on operational excellence and grower success creates tremendous opportunity. The investments being made today strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional products while creating greater value throughout the supply chain, and we're proud to be part of that vision." Mark Thompson, CEO of Liberty Gold, stated: "The momentum inside Potandon is unlike anything we've experienced in years. The Potandon Grower Alliance demonstrates a genuine commitment to growers, customers and raising the standard across the industry. We're proud to be part of what's next."
Why It Matters
For retailers and foodservice operators, grower alliances signal supply chain stability and quality consistency—critical factors in a category where brand reputation hinges on product reliability. Potandon's formalized alliance structure, backed by direct grower endorsements, suggests the company is betting that deeper collaboration will outcompete broader, more transactional supply models in the competitive fresh potato and onion market.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors
