Produce-industry veteran brings decade of sales and sustainability expertise to the century-old California vegetable grower

Family run grower shipper Baloian Farms has tapped produce industry veteran Bonny Iten to spearhead business development, betting that her blend of sales savvy and relationship building skill can accelerate the farm’s next century of growth while preserving its hallmark customer service and premium vegetable program.

Established in 1917 and now led by the fourth generation of Baloians, the Fresno based company has evolved from a small Armenian American family plot into a vertically integrated supplier of bell peppers, eggplant, cucumbers and other seasonal crops that ships nationwide.

The century-long legacy, rooted in what the Baloians describe as “hard work, honesty and humility,” continues to guide operations that stretch from Central California fields to distribution centers across North America.

The newest chapter of that legacy opens with Iten, who brings more than a decade of sales and business-development experience at produce firms large and small.

Colleagues familiar with her track record describe an executive comfortable navigating retailer expectations, pricing volatility and shifting consumer trends skills Baloian Farms believes will be critical as it scales programs and explores new channels.

“We are very excited to have Bonny join our team. Her appreciation for farming, determination, and strong work ethic are a natural match with the culture here. Bonny is innovative, has vision, and isn’t afraid to color outside the lines. We look forward to the added experience, enthusiasm, and insights she will bring. She will do great things here at Baloian Farms.”

Jeremy Lane, Sales Manager for Baloian Farms

Lane’s confidence rests partly on Iten’s reputation for cultivating long-term partnerships with retail buyers and food service operators connections that often prove decisive when weather, logistics or market swings disrupt supply.

By embedding herself in customers’ planning cycles, she is expected to help the company fine-tune seasonal programs and introduce value-added offerings that can command shelf space in a crowded produce aisle.

Iten’s remit also includes amplifying Baloian Farms’ sustainability initiatives, an area where she has previously delivered program growth by coordinating with growers on soil health practices and mentoring sales teams on traceability requirements.

Management believes those strengths align with retailer demands for transparent, socially responsible supply chains.

“After watching Baloian from afar over the course of my career, it is an honor to join the team. Their commitment to sustainable growth at every level of the business is truly impressive. The support Baloian Farms delivers to growers, local communities, and employees alike is unmatched, and I look forward to contributing to the continued success here.”

Bonny Iten, Business Development Representative for Baloian Farms

Baloian Farms’ recent accolades including a 2024 Family Legacy Award underscore its longevity in a sector where consolidation and cost pressures routinely squeeze midsize growers.

The company credits that staying power to diversified acreage, an in-house packing operation, and a year-round pepper portfolio that complements seasonal vegetables sourced from partner farms in California, Arizona and Mexico.

With Iten now charged with broadening market reach and deepening customer programs, leadership says the focus for the remainder of 2025 will be on strategic collaborations that leverage the farm’s field expertise and her market intelligence an approach the company hopes will secure its footing for the next hundred years