To anyone outside of the industry, it’s difficult to understand the level of dedication seen by our nation’s farmers. But for those of us in fresh, we know how much it fundamentally shapes a person, how it can reach inside of us and not let go.
Growing up in California’s San Joaquin Valley, Ian LeMay has only ever known a deep appreciation for farmers and the land they work. Throughout his career, he’s tirelessly advocated for the industry, previously as the former President of the California Fresh Fruit Association, and now as the California Table Grape Commission’s (CTGC) President and Chief Executive Officer.
More than a year into his new role, Ian contemplates the future of the California table grape industry, the commission’s role, and how to steward the land for the next generation.
Anne Allen: Ian, what takeaways have you learned from your first year as President and Chief Executive Officer of CTGC?Ian LeMay, President and Chief Executive Officer, California Table Grape Commission: Over the course of my first year as President and CEO of the California Table Grape Commission, one of my greatest takeaways has been the tremendous strength and support that exists throughout California’s table grape industry. I’ve been incredibly encouraged by the engagement and confidence shown not only by our growers and shippers, but also by our commission board and industry partners. There is a genuine shared commitment to the long-term success of Grapes from California, and that level of support creates a strong foundation for leadership and progress.
I’ve also come to appreciate even more deeply how our industry is rooted in legacy while consistently embracing constant improvement. California table grape growers have generations of history behind them, but they also possess a remarkable willingness to evolve, innovate, and adapt to changing consumer expectations and global market conditions. That mindset has reinforced for me the importance of honoring the traditions and relationships that built this industry while continuing to push forward with new ideas, new strategies, and a long-term vision for growth.
IL: The California Table Grape Commission is excited to be promoting Grapes from California through an updated marketing campaign. The campaign introduces a cast of superhero characters consisting of Captain Cluster, Much, and Glow, who together form the Lunchbox League. Members of the Lunchbox League originate from California, where tasty fuels healthy, and healthy makes happy, and their status as superheroes links directly to grapes being considered a superfood. The Lunchbox League will champion Grapes from California globally and appear in in-store, digital, and social media promotional materials.
Introducing this cast of characters gives personality to a product consumers know and enjoy, and personifies the health benefits, taste, and quality of California grapes for consumers of all ages.
The commission was also recently awarded funds through the America First Trade Promotion Program (AFTPP) to support retail and consumer promotion initiatives in Australia, Mexico, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Funding from this award will further reinforce California’s position as a global supplier of healthy, delicious, and high-quality table grapes.
“California table grape growers have generations of history behind them, but they also possess a remarkable willingness to evolve, innovate, and adapt to changing consumer expectations and global market conditions.”
IL: Looking ahead, I’m especially excited about the opportunities in front of us through the America First Trade Promotion Program and the additional resources it provides to strengthen the global position of Grapes from California. Those investments create meaningful opportunities to expand our presence in key international markets, deepen relationships with trade partners, and tell our story to consumers around the world in new and impactful ways.
I’m equally excited about the team leading that work at the commission. We have an incredibly talented, dedicated, and motivated staff that genuinely believes in this industry and its future. Their passion to grow California’s position in the global table grape trade is evident every day, and I have tremendous confidence in our ability to continue building momentum together. The future of the California table grape industry is bright, and I’m honored to help lead the work ahead.
Threaded into the DNA of those who till the soil is the desire to leave a better future behind. It’s a recurring theme in fresh produce, and one lovingly supported by Ian and the team he leads at the California Table Grape Commission. 
