Conversation with Pumpkin Queen Sarah Frey

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In the heartland of Illinois, Sarah Frey, a trailblazing female entrepreneur, has made significant strides in the American agricultural industry. Frey, the founder of Frey Farms, has risen from humble beginnings to lead one of the country's largest strawberry farms.

Growing up on a small family farm, Frey learned the skills that would later propel her to success. After her father's passing, she took over the farm at a young age and transformed it into a thriving enterprise. Today, Frey Farms spans over 10,000 acres, producing a diverse array of fruits and vegetables that are distributed nationwide.

Frey's innovative approach to agriculture has been instrumental in her success. She pioneered direct-to-retailer produce sales, expanding Frey Farms' product line beyond strawberries to include pumpkins, sweet corn, and other seasonal crops.

Sarah Frey's impact extends beyond her farm. She is a champion of sustainable farming practices, advocating for women in farming, and increasing the visibility of family farms in the national market. Frey Farms has become a beacon of successful agribusiness that combines traditional farming values with modern business techniques and marketing, inspiring numerous other growers and agribusinesses.

As consumers become more aware and supportive of American-grown products due to the pandemic, the focus on the supply chain is growing. Frey Farms, with its commitment to transparency and quality, is well-positioned to meet this demand.

Despite her success, Sarah Frey remains grounded. She views her team members as family members rather than employees and finds satisfaction in growing her own food and sharing it with her family. Gardening with family provides a special bonding experience, as Sarah shared with her children.

In an industry that can be resistant to change, Sarah Frey's empathetic approach sets her apart. She understands the importance of consumer awareness and education, recognising that it ties back to agriculture and our desire to connect with the roots of how we nourish our bodies.

It's worth noting that over 50% of the fresh produce consumed in America is imported from other countries. However, there are no laws requiring food manufacturers to directly state where the food is coming from. This underscores the importance of Frey's commitment to transparency and her belief that US farmers are held to a higher standard compared to other countries.

Sarah Frey's journey from a small family farm owner to a leader in American agriculture reflects her resilience, innovative spirit, and significant contribution to the industry through expanded production, marketing, and advocacy for sustainable and inclusive farming practices. Her story serves as an inspiration for those who aspire to make a difference in the agricultural sector.

Sarah Frey, an entrepreneur in the heartland of Illinois, spearheads Frey Farms, one of the country's largest strawberry farms.
Gardening skills learned on her family's small farm led Frey to success after taking over the farm following her father's passing.
Today, Frey Farms encompasses over 10,000 acres, producing various fruits and vegetables for national distribution.
Frey's innovative direct-to-retailer produce sales strategy expanded the farm's product line beyond strawberries.
Sustainable farming practices, women in farming, and family farms' visibility are all areas Frey champions.
Frey Farms is a model of agribusiness that combines traditional farming values with modern business techniques and marketing.
The pandemic has increased consumer awareness and support of American-grown products, positioning Frey Farms well.
Frey views her team members as family rather than employees, finding satisfaction in gardening and sharing homegrown food with her family.
Gardening with family provides a unique bonding experience, as Sarah shared with her children.
In a changereistant industry, Frey's empathetic approach sets her apart, understanding the importance of consumer awareness and education.
Over half of the fresh produce consumed in America is imported, with no laws mandating food manufacturers to disclose their origins.
Frey's commitment to transparency underscores the importance of knowing the story behind the food we consume.
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