The name Duda is deeply rooted in growing and marketing fresh produce. Dan Duda, CEO and former President of Central Florida-based Duda Farm Fresh Foods, is set to retire after 40 years from the six-generation family owned company effective Dec. 31, 2020.
Dan’s brother and fourth-generation family member, Sammy Duda, will continue to lead Duda Farm Fresh Foods as President, according to a company news release.
During his tenure, Duda Farm Fresh Foods transitioned from a commodity business to a well-known consumer brand with value-added operations that have gained exceptional growth. The Dandy brand has more than doubled in market penetration, with 80% market share in retail fresh cut celery.
“As I reflect on the past 40 years, I’m so thankful for my time with the company and furthermore it’s people,” Dan Duda says. “The Duda Farm Fresh Foods family along with the fresh produce industry have been an integral part of my career.”
Dan oversaw the celery research and development that gained traction to allow Duda Farm Fresh Foods to begin exporting proprietary celery seed varieties internationally.
“For the past 30 years, Dan and I have worked closely together, traveling, visiting with employees, and touring our various operations,” Bart Weeks, COO of A. Duda & Sons, Inc. said “It’s been a pleasure getting to know Dan professionally and personally, and I look forward to working closer with Sammy as he continues to lead the company as president.”