Why Choose Us? - The Kunkel Company

Why Choose Us

Loyalty, Experience, and most importantly: Customer Service

We’re a small, family-owned business, and we’ve been around a long time. We know our vendors. We know our shippers. We’ve taken the time to establish strong relationships across the industry, so that we can make sure our customers are getting the best quality product. The loyalty and bond we’ve established with our shippers is unparalleled, and we strive to have that same close relationship with our customers.

The produce industry is fast-paced and ever-changing, so it’s important to us that each and every one of our customers feel valued. Unlike many of our competitors, our team makes itself available 24/7 to ensure your needs are met. We pride ourselves on our customer service. It’s our attentiveness and attention to detail that separate us from the pack.

History Timeline

2023

In 2023, Tony Morimoto and Jon Morimoto bought the company from Ed Morimoto. They look to continue their father’s legacy and serve the Minnesota community with fresh produce for years to come.

2013, The Kunkel Company acquired Minnesota Produce for their solidified CA vegetable business and vendor relationships within that area.

2013

2012

2012, Jon Morimoto and Tony Morimoto were hired to join the family business.

2003, The Kunkel Company made an ambitious decision to drastically change their business model. They moved to Eden Prairie, MN and built a warehouse for transfer and storage capabilities. Ed expanded sales to all fruits and vegetables from across the country, including imported items from different countries.

2003

1990

In 1990, Ed Morimoto purchased The Kunkel Company from Ken Comer.

1985, Ed Morimoto and Mike Hansen started working at The Kunkel Company. Ed expanded sales to California, Nogales, and Florida.

1985

1975

1975, Ken Comer purchased the company from Ed Kunkel and became an official Blue Book member of the Produce Alliance. They added tomato sales and moved the office to Hopkins, MN. Ken had to switch our operations from railcars to refrigerated truck transportation because they were clearing the railyard for construction on the Metrodome, which would go on to host the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Twins.

The Kunkel Company was established in 1951 by Ed Kunkel. Initially it was a potato and onion brokerage in the Plymouth Building in downtown Minneapolis, which was in close proximity to the Rock Island Railroad. This was necessary because the customers would send the city trucks to the railroad yard to unload the railcars and bring it to their warehouses on First Avenue.