Potandon Produce, one of the largest providers of fresh potatoes in North America and a global leader within the world’s top three food crops, announced that CEO Mel Davenport will retire after more than 30 years of service that was marked by the launch of Klondike Gold potatoes and CarbSmart.

The company is based in Dallas and Idaho Falls, Idaho.

Succeeding Davenport as CEO will be David Lawrence, former CEO of Fresh Direct. 

“Mel’s well-deserved retirement marks the culmination of a career,” Jeff Sholl, founder and managing member of Potandon, said in a statement. “As a key member of Potandon’s senior management team, Mel has been a cornerstone of our business since its inception and his leadership has been pivotal to the company’s position today. As we celebrate Mel’s contributions, we also look forward to an exciting new chapter under the leadership of David Lawrence, whose vision and expertise will guide Potandon toward continued growth and success.”

Potandon Produce said that over the past nearly three decades, Davenport has helped guide the company through significant growth and innovation in the fresh produce market. Under his leadership, Potandon strengthened its market position, continued the expansion of its Green Giant Fresh products, expanded its product offerings, and fostered a culture of excellence and sustainability.

Produce innovation

Potandon said that Lawrence brings a wealth of experience and proven leadership in the fresh food and logistics industries.

While at Fresh Direct, Lawrence spearheaded initiatives that enhanced customer experience, streamlined operations, and drove significant business growth. His deep understanding of consumer needs and his commitment to innovation align seamlessly with Potandon’s vision for the future.

Before that, Lawrence was the president of Taylor Farms Northwest LLC, CEO of National Pecan LLC, and president of C.M. Holtzinger Fruit Co. With a track record of driving growth, operational excellence, and innovation, Lawrence is well-positioned to lead Potandon Produce into its next chapter, the company said.

“I’m looking forward to joining Potandon Produce and building upon the strong foundation established by Mel and the team,” Lawrence said in a statement. “At a time when consumers are more focused on functional foods, health and nutrition than ever, I’m proud to join a company that understands these evolving needs and is committed to delivering unique varieties and such a huge consumer footprint for providing nutritious, high-quality produce to meet them.”

Potandon Produce is one of the largest providers of fresh table stock potatoes in the nation and also a leading provider of fresh onions.

The company’s product line includes Minute Mashers, ONE STEP… DONE!, and classic russet, yellow, red, and white potatoes. Its unique vertical integration has led to a state-of-the-art variety development program for such unique varieties as HeartHealthy, Tiger, and many others within the world’s top three food crops, and which looks 10 years down the road to develop potatoes for future shoppers based on extensive consumer research.

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