Jeffrey Dewey “Jeff” Gargiulo has spent more than four decades helping shape Florida agriculture and the national produce industry through leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Born in Fort Myers in 1952, Jeff was introduced to agriculture at an early age after his family relocated to Naples, where his father, Dewey Gargiulo, established what would become Naples Tomato Growers. Dewey’s contributions to the fruit and vegetable industry helped advance tomato production and packaging practices that became industry standards.
After earning a marketing degree from Florida State University, Jeff joined the family business and later co-founded Gargiulo Inc. with his brother, John, in 1978. As CEO, he led the company’s growth from a Florida-based tomato operation into the nation’s leading fresh tomato producer. Jeff farmed throughout the state of Florida and beyond, including Collier, Lee, Hendry, Manatee, Hillsborough and Gadsden counties. Under his leadership, the company expanded into strawberries, raspberries, and imported produce, with operations across the United States, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Chile. At one point, Jeff oversaw one of the largest tomato-growing operations in the world.
Jeff’s influence extended well beyond his own business. He served as chairman of the Produce Marketing Association, president of Florida Tomato Growers and president of Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association. He also represented the produce industry during international trade discussions, including negotiations related to the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
Following the sale of Gargiulo Inc. to Monsanto in 1997, he served as president of its produce division. He later became president and CEO of Sunkist Growers, where he helped expand global sourcing operations. In the early 2000s, Jeff and his wife, Valerie, established Gargiulo Vineyards in Napa Valley, creating another successful agricultural enterprise rooted in production, quality and stewardship of the land.
In addition to his business accomplishments, Jeff has made a lasting impact through philanthropy and community leadership. He co-founded the Naples Children & Education Foundation and the Naples Winter Wine Festival, which have generated significant support for children’s education and healthcare programs in Collier County. He continues to serve as chairman emeritus of the foundation.
Throughout his career, Jeff has demonstrated a commitment to advancing agriculture, supporting rural communities and creating opportunities for future generations. From Florida’s tomato fields to leadership roles in the global produce industry, his contributions have left a lasting mark on agriculture in Florida and beyond.
