Philadelphia Wholesale Produce Market celebrates decade as East Coast distribution leader

The Pennsylvania Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee highlighted significant advancements in the state's agricultural infrastructure during their recent meeting on March 6, 2025. A key focus was the Philadelphia Wholesale Produce Market (PWPM), which has become a cornerstone of food distribution in the region since its opening in 2011.

The PWPM, located in South Philadelphia, is the largest refrigerated produce market in the world, covering 686,000 square feet. This facility was established through a collaborative effort involving state legislators, federal partners, and private companies, resulting in a $200 million investment. The market plays a vital role in Pennsylvania's agricultural community, supporting over 300 local jobs and facilitating more than $1 billion in annual sales.

Committee members discussed the market's extensive reach, which extends from Toronto to Georgia, serving customers across the Mid-Atlantic region. Notably, one customer travels from North Carolina three times a week to purchase goods at the PWPM, underscoring its importance to regional food supply chains.

In addition to its commercial success, the PWPM is committed to community support through food rescue and donation initiatives. The market partners with the Feeding Pennsylvania's Mid-Atlantic Regional Cooperative to address food insecurity, demonstrating its dedication to giving back to the community.

The discussions at the committee meeting reinforced the PWPM's status as a vital asset for Pennsylvania's food security and agricultural economy, highlighting the ongoing need for support and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure its continued success.