SUN WORLD CHAIRMAN TO RESIGN

COACHELLA, Calif. -- Howard Marguleas, founder of Sun World International, a leader in branded produce, has announced his resignation as chairman of the board. Stepping in to take over his responsibilities is one of the company's co-founders, Domenick "Cookie" Bianco, who will continue as president and chief executive officer, positions he assumed last year.

my energies and attention to realigning these investments.

"During the last six months, I chose to reduce my management responsibilities at Sun World and turn various duties over to my trusted friend and business partner of more than 40 years, Domenick Bianco." A year ago Marguleas appointed Bianco president of the company, and last fall named him chief executive officer. Prior to that, Bianco primarily had been responsible for field operations. Marguleas apparently won't stray from produce. Many of his other business interests are tied to the produce industry, sources said, and he will remain Sun World's majority shareholder.

Marguleas and Bianco founded Sun World in 1976 with one additional partner, Carl Maggio, who left the partnership in 1992. Through a series of expansions and acquisitions, the company has grown to one of the largest suppliers in the country, with sales around $300 million, according to industry reports.

Sun World markets some 75 produce items, many of which are proprietary varieties like DiVine Ripe tomatoes, Le Rouge Royale red bell peppers and Sun World Seedless watermelons.

Neither Marguleas nor Bianco was available for interviews last week.