Featured image: Paul Reeping (right), with long-time friend, Brad Janicek (left), photo taken July 23, 2024, and courtesy of Paul Reeping
Paul Reeping, a seasoned onion and produce salesman, is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and the willingness to share knowledge with the next generation of industry professionals. As part of OnionBusiness.com’s new series profiling experienced individuals in the onion industry, Paul stands out not only for his extensive experience but also for his unique journey and contributions.
Paul Reeping likes to amuse people with a bit of trivia about his origins. “I was not born in any of the United States of America,” he says with a chuckle. This statement often leaves people puzzled until he reveals, “I was born and raised in Washington D.C.”
One of seventeen children, Paul graduated from Gonzaga High School in D.C. and attended The Diesel Institute of America, the premier training institute in the United States. From there, Paul worked as a technician for the world’s leading automobile brand, Mercedes Benz. His knack for connecting with people quickly earned him a promotion to a sales position, a role where he truly felt at home.
In 1994, seeking to be closer to his wife’s family, Paul moved to Nampa, Idaho, and resumed his career with Mercedes Benz. His journey then took him to Snap-On Tools, the top tool brand, where he honed his sales skills even further.
Reflecting on his career path, Paul shared, “I was blessed to have these opportunities to work for leading brands. It definitely contributed to my skill set landing in produce.”
After five successful years with Snap-On and with a growing family of five children, Paul was introduced to onion grower Brad Janicek. Brad offered Paul a sales position at Janicek Produce, and with a Produce Blue Book tossed onto his desk, Paul was tasked with securing customers. “It was not the training I expected, but it worked, and we were successful,” Paul recalls. Despite seven consecutive years of challenging onion market prices, Janicek Produce closed its doors without declaring bankruptcy, a rare feat in the industry.
Following the closure of Janicek Produce, Paul joined Murakami Produce, the largest shipper in the Treasure Valley. His journey continued with Treasure Valley Farms in Weiser, Idaho, and eventually, he opened his own business, PR Sales.
Over the years, Paul has sold produce for numerous companies in the Idaho-Eastern Oregon Onion area, including Boise River Pack, Fiesta Farms, Central Produce, and Haun Packing. He also contracted sales for G Farms in Phoenix, Arizona, helping to move onions, watermelons, and red potatoes—a relationship that continues to this day.
In 2022, Paul lent his expertise to onion grower/shipper Nick Gomeza and his wife Bernice, showcasing his continued commitment to the industry.
As the 2024 Northwest season approaches, Paul is eager to share his wealth of knowledge with newcomers to the business. “I have enjoyed a successful career in the produce business and have learned so much along the way,” Paul said. “It’s not always easy to develop marketing plans and get loyal customers. I’m in a position in my life where I can share what I’ve learned and hopefully help new folks entering the produce business get off to a great start and build a career they can be proud as well.”
Paul Reeping’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and mentorship. His journey from the nation’s capital to the heart of the onion industry serves as an inspiring example of how dedication and a willingness to embrace new opportunities can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career.
Fun Fact about Paul’s early years: In 1987, Paul, his brother, and two buddies quit their jobs and embarked on a cross-country trip from Washington D.C. that lasted six months and covered 38,000 miles. The trip eventually landed the group in San Diego. Paul’s mother had requested that the boys stop in Memphis and visit St. Jude’s Hospital which was near and dear to her heart after losing a child to Leukemia. At the hospital, the only parking spot available was for blood donors. Each boy donated a pint of blood and $25. The photo was captured by St. Jude officials and included the VP of St. Jude’s hospital (standing to the far right next to Paul.)
Another photo Paul provided of his younger days displays his love for the “Gem State.” Paul is in the center.
