Podcast Summary: New York Farm Bureau News Bytes – Episode #8: Interview with Philip Grant from Hunts Point Produce Market

Podcast Information

• Title: New York Farm Bureau News Bytes
• Host: Steve Ammerman, Director of Communications for New York Farm Bureau
• Episode: #8: Interview with Philip Grant from Hunts Point Produce Market
• Release Date: June 6, 2024

Introduction to Hunts Point Market

In Episode #8 of New York Farm Bureau News Bytes, host Steve Ammerman delves into the operations and future plans of one of the world's largest produce markets—Hunts Point Market in the Bronx. Serving as a crucial distribution hub, Hunts Point feeds millions daily across New York City and the Tri-State area, sourcing produce both locally and internationally.

Philip Grant's Role and Background

Philip Grant, the CEO of Hunts Point Market, shares his extensive background and vision for the market. With nearly a decade at Hunts Point and over five years in a leadership role, Grant emphasizes his commitment to enhancing the market's infrastructure and fostering strong relationships with local farmers.

Philip Grant [01:31]: "Hunts Point has been around for, I guess, centuries. It's what, the largest food distribution center in the world, is that correct?"

Steve Ammerman [01:40]: "Kind of."

Current Operations and Impact

Hunts Point Market operates as a bustling logistics hub, managing daily operations that involve sourcing from 55 countries and 49 states. With support from 27 merchants, the market handles approximately 10,000 daily visits, ensuring that about 60% of New York City's produce supply originates from Hunts Point.

Philip Grant [02:25]: "So you're literally feeding millions of people a day."

Philip Grant [02:29]: "Millions. Our team, my team here would tell me that we're getting better numbers. It's about 23.6 million people we feed daily within a 50 mile radius of the market."

Relationship with Local Farmers

A significant portion of the discussion centers on Hunts Point's symbiotic relationship with New York's farmers. Grant highlights the market's role as a primary outlet for local produce, fostering an environment where farmers can reliably distribute their goods to a vast customer base.

Philip Grant [05:21]: "We have such aligned goals, farmers and the market. And actually our slogan prior to our, prior to this was that it's where farmers go to market."

The market's approach ensures that local farmers receive fair prices and timely distribution of their products, strengthening the overall agricultural ecosystem in the region.

Redevelopment Plans and Future Growth

Looking ahead, Philip Grant outlines ambitious redevelopment plans aimed at modernizing Hunts Point Market. Secured with $400 million in grant funding from city, state, and federal sources, the $600 million project will introduce two new buildings and repurpose existing structures to enhance operational efficiency and capacity.

Philip Grant [07:56]: "All three sectors, we have it from the city, state and the federal government. So those are the three parts that are funding us now for an Ultimately a $600 million project..."

The redevelopment is projected to take five to seven years, promising to increase the market's capacity by 30% and streamline logistics, thereby benefiting both local and international supply chains.

Philip Grant [09:31]: "If we expand the amount of food that can come through, obviously that means more opportunity, but also it may physically just make it easier to get the food to you and out the door."

Insights and Notable Quotes

Throughout the interview, Grant emphasizes the importance of relationships and efficient logistics in maintaining Hunts Point's status as a leading produce hub.

Philip Grant [10:54]: "The merchants here... this is a relationship business, you know, and it's a business that thrives on a handshake and the fact that if you send your product here, we guarantee you that will get you on a fair market price."

He also shares memorable experiences from farm visits and industry events, highlighting the diverse and innovative agricultural practices within New York State.

Philip Grant [12:09]: "I've been to the Taste of New York for the last two years... my team members would tell me about whipped honey. So there's a lot of food related things that... broadens my horizons..."

Final Thoughts and Future Outlook

In concluding remarks, Grant reiterates Hunts Point Market's commitment to supporting local agriculture and ensuring a robust food distribution network. He envisions a future where the market not only continues to grow but also enhances the livelihoods of New York's farmers.

Philip Grant [14:11]: "Our goal and our shared goal here is to open up that pipeline... see the farming community, see the market community just thriving and working towards that 57 plus new Thanksgivings that we want to have here at the market and right here in the Bronx."

Host Steve Ammerman echoes Grant's optimism, underscoring the essential connection between producers and consumers in sustaining a strong food system.

Steve Ammerman [15:20]: "It's so important for people in New York City to understand where their food comes from and that we have that relationship between the growers, you know, our producers as well as... our customers."

Upcoming Events and Opportunities

The episode also highlights upcoming events organized by the New York Farm Bureau, including the state convention and the relaunched Food and Farm Experience, aimed at educating and connecting stakeholders within the agricultural community.

• State Convention: December 3-5, 2024, at Turning Stone Resort and Casino, Verona, NY.
• Food and Farm Experience: October 16-18, 2024, in Fayetteville, NY.

These events focus on leadership, innovation, diversification, and career opportunities in agriculture, reinforcing the Farm Bureau's dedication to advancing the sector.

Conclusion

Episode #8 of New York Farm Bureau News Bytes offers an in-depth exploration of Hunts Point Market's pivotal role in New York's agricultural landscape. Through Philip Grant's insights, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the market's operations, its vital partnership with local farmers, and the transformative redevelopment plans set to shape its future. This episode serves as a testament to the interconnectedness of producers and consumers in fostering a resilient and thriving food system.

For more information on upcoming events and initiatives, visit nyfb.org and navigate to the Events section.