"A symbol of strength and courage that offers protection and loyalty. James Bassetti, Sr., affectionately known as “The Bear,” earned such a reputation with a successful produce business due to his fierce commitment to going to any length to supply the best produce possible for his customers.

In 1984, his son Jimmy Bassetti, took a trip down to the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas, at the request of one of their Canadian clients that they serviced during the New Jersey season. Jimmy soon realized the potential opportunity to offer their customers a year-round supply of produce, along with the same level of quality and service that was available during the New Jersey season. Jimmy and his wife Diane quickly made the decision to take a chance, and make Texas their home.

After two years sourcing from various grower-packer-shippers, it became clear that in order to offer their customers a premium product, they would need to venture into farming and packing product in-house. From there, J&D Produce and the “Little Bear” brand was born, and thus the legacy that the Bassetti family created. One that still holds true today in honoring the same core values – fulfilling one’s word, and respecting those they do business with."

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