Ciruli Brothers and The Horton Fruit Company have announced the addition of industry veteran Tommy Wilkins as the new director of sales and business development for Grow Farms Texas, a partnership between both companies.

“We could not be happier to have Tommy join us,' said Ciruli Brothers CEO and Grow Farms Texas partner Chuck Ciruli. 'His experience and passion for the produce industry make him a valuable asset to our team. We are grateful for the opportunity to work together.”

The native of Lubbock will make the move to the Rio Grande Valley following his departure from The United Family (formerly United Supermarkets, LLC) where Wilkins was a key player in developing the produce procurement division.

Wilkins, who has known the Ciruli family since the early 1990s, will be responsible for developing sales and marketing programmes from the south Texas region.

“Teaming up with Ciruli Brothers and Horton Fruit was a natural fit due to the owners’ integrity, commitment to quality and their vision in the industry,' Wilkins explained. 'They have also shown tremendous support for the work I have done with the trade, which resonates very well with me.'