BRADENTON, Fla. — A popular Tampa Bay Area family farm is turning in their tractors for a new business venture.
Mixon Fruit Farms have announced they are closing their family-owned farm and switching to online retail. But that’s not all. They’re expanding their reach thanks to a new set of fresh wheels.
“It’s been a chance for us to get out and see people,” says Janet Mixon, co-owner of Mixon Fruit Farms.
Since 1939, Mixon Fruit Farms has been a staple in the Tampa Bay Area. Known for their oranges and fresh produce. But now they’re going beyond the farm.
“Dean and I talked about it and said ‘why don’t we do a food truck?’,” said Mixon.
That’s right — Mixon Fruit Farms is now on wheels. As they embark on a new business venture with their food truck.
“We knew that we were getting older and we should kind of think about retiring,” said Mixon. “When we talked about closing, everybody was so sad.”
It’s been just a matter of months since the Mixons transitioned to the truck. And already customers are lining up.
“We’re learning because this is new to us,” says Mixon. “So it’s like okay, if we’re doing something and it’s not working, then we’ll just change it.”
They also run a pretty tight ship. Co-managed by Marie Lovy, who has been working with the Mixon’s for 11 years and counting.
“I came to Florida 12 years ago, and this is the only job I’ve ever had was here at Mixons,” said Lovy. “I love the Mixons.”
It’s a different experience that has all the same favorites, like their famous orange swirl ice cream. Along with a few new goodies, too.
“When you come to Mixons or get the Mixon Swirl, it’s like being on vacation,” said Lovy.
A vacation that never ends.
“We didn’t want to go away,” said Mixon. “When it’s been in his family for 84 years, you didn’t want to just step away and do nothing. We’re looking forward to this. We’re going to have fun.”
Continuing the fun for other families to enjoy.
You can still order gifts and fruits through Mixons online. They also take phone orders as well.
Calvin Lewis
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