At Fruit Growers Supply, pallets have always been a fundamental part of our business. After all, we’ve enjoyed more than a century in the wooden pallet industry, from our humble beginnings in 1907 — when Sunkist Growers founded FGS to help create wooden slats for the company’s shipping crates — to the launch of our pallet procurement program.
Under the leadership of Ron Santiago, this program has expanded, and he’s maintained strong relationships with both local and national suppliers.
We talked to Santiago about the procurement program’s ability to offer competitive pricing, along with the high quality and exceptional service FGS is known for.
Tell us about the pallet procurement program
We previously offered this program, coordinating deliveries from our suppliers in Southern California to our customers. Since then, we’ve deepened our commitment to this approach, gaining momentum by focusing on cost savings for both new and long-time customers. By consistently providing value, we’re dedicated to building lasting partnerships, offering continuous support, and listening to our customers to help them succeed.
How are those customers liking the new program?
In the beginning, many customers were hesitant. I focused on the benefits of the program and how it would work and the cost savings for them. By sharing our process and ensuring the same quality they received at United Wholesale Lumber, transparency, integrity and exceptional customer service became our key. From lumber suppliers to cut stock material, I provided historical insights to help customers make informed purchasing decisions.
How do you measure the program’s success?
I believe our success isn’t just measured by sales, but by the return customers we see year after year and the word-of-mouth referrals we receive. Our program is unique, and when customers are satisfied with our work, they share their experience with others. As more people talk about us, our reach continues to grow. Occasionally, competitors ask how we do it. I simply tell them: we follow up and focus on a value-based program.
Can you give me an example of your dedication to customer service?
In light of recent events regarding the potential tariff on lumber crossing the border, I emailed our customers to inform them of the potential impacts, ensure they were aware of the situation, and thank them for their continued partnership. By offering this service, we also demonstrate our commitment to customers across all departments—whether it’s retail centers, post-harvest, or irrigation. When customers see our passion for the lumber side of the business, they trust that we bring the same dedication to all areas. This creates a positive ripple effect that reflects well on both our personnel and the company as a whole.
If your current pallets do not meet your standards, FGS is ready to discuss your needs and provide customized solutions. Contact us today for a personalized quote. Call (559) 713-5368 or email us at PalletCustomerService@FruitGrowers.com.