P-R Farms FROM ORCHARD TO OIL: THE ENZO EXPERIENCE By Julia Nellis, Social Media Manager
When Vincenzo Ricchiuti left Italy in 1914, it’s likely that he didn’t expect he’d find the perfect Mediterranean climate for farming in Fresno, California. Yet, the region’s ideal conditions allowed him to explore sustainable farming and crop diversification, eventually expanding into growing grapes and figs. Fast forward to today, the Ricchiuti family farm has grown into a thriving fourth-generation operation, leading the U.S. olive oil market. After World War II, the farm broadened its operations to include fruits like peaches, plums and apricots. Patrick Ricchiuti, Vincenzo’s grandson, didn’t stop
there – he took it a step further by introducing citrus, almonds and olives into the mix. Vincent Ricchiuti, great-grandson of Vincenzo and COO of P-R Farms and Enzo Olive Oil, always felt a strong connection to the family’s agricultural roots. Like many other kids born into the industry, Vincent spent his summer breaks in the packing house, eager to take on more responsibility on the farm. These long days instilled in him a strong work ethic, problem- solving skills, flexibility and the ability to collaborate with others in a team setting – all of which Vincent credits as essential traits in running a multi-generational family business. Growing up in the world of fresh produce, he was surrounded by the family business and appreciated the forward-thinking approach his parents and grandparents took in feeding communities and breaking new ground in sustainability. Their mindset inspired him to forge his own path in the industry. When faced with that all too-familiar fork in the road, Vincent’s appreciation for his family’s relentless pursuit of innovation and quality resulted in a deep-rooted desire to carry on what his great-grandfather started over a century ago. He chose to pursue an Agricultural Business degree from Fresno State and join his family full time. Today, P-R Farms has embraced significant diversification, growing olives, almonds, grapes and tree fruit, all while maintaining sustainable and ethical growing practices. With the creation and rapid success of Enzo Olive Oil Company, the Ricchiuti family business has become a "Today, P-R Farms has embraced significant diversification, growing olives, almonds, grapes and tree fruit, all while maintaining sustainable and ethical growing practices."
Vincent Ricchiuti
30 Western Grower & Shipper | www.wga.com November | December 2024
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