The United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association was founded as the Western Fruit Jobbers Association in Chicago in 1904, with about 100 members who were primarily fruit and vegetable grower/shippers and wholesalers. During the post-war 1950s, when the modern supermarket was born, produce quickly became one of the cornerstones of the store, even though selection, quality and variety varied greatly from season to season. Today, global, year-round supply reflects a sophisticated industry that follows the consumer, rather than the deal. Throughout the years, United played an increasingly important role in bringing together suppliers, retailers and government, as these images confirm.
