Zach Cohen, 34
Sales, Cohen Produce Marketing, Camp Hill, PA
June 12, 2026 | 3 min to read
SHORT BIO
Hometown: Harrisburg, PA
Hobbies: Running, Traveling, Cooking, Reading, Hiking
Motto in life: The best ability is availability.
Cohen was unexpectedly thrust into a leading role at Cohen Produce Marketing, becoming co-owner and taking charge only a few years after joining the family business. In a short time, he has earned the respect of those in the industry for stepping out and taking on challenges in the changing apple industry.
After graduating from Temple University in 2014, Cohen began his professional career at Total Quality Logistics, where he spent two years as a logistics account executive.
In 2016, he joined Giant Eagle, where he spent seven years in various roles. During his time at Giant Eagle he handled store planning, product assortment, category performance, and in-store execution before he transitioned to the digital and omnichannel marketing team for three years. In this role, he helped support Giant Eagle’s e-commerce operations, omnichannel marketing programming, and digital coupon engagement and execution across all store categories.
In October 2022, he joined Cohen Produce Marketing, a fourth-generation family-owned produce brokerage and exporter. In his current role, he works closely with growers to source and market high-quality produce.
Q: How did you begin working in the produce industry and why?
Growing up with my dad and uncle working for the family produce business, I always knew I wanted to join them. The jobs I had prior to joining Cohen Produce Marketing were stepping stones that I felt prepared me to join the family business.
More so, I was excited about the opportunity to work with my dad, with hopes of running the business with him for the next several years. My dad unexpectedly died in March 2024 — only 18 months into my tenure. Since my dad’s death, the “why” of working in the produce industry is even more important now — it’s carrying on a legacy and continuing to provide the best service to our growers and customers that has led to Cohen Produce’s success.
Q: What do you wish you knew when you first started your career?
It’s a marathon, not a sprint. I am always so eager to see instant results, but now, almost 12 years in my professional career, it’s important to understand that seeing success — whether it’s a small task or a big project — takes time and patience.
Q: What is the one thing in produce that you are most passionate about?
I am passionate about the growers we work with every day. Without their efforts and contributions to the produce industry, everyday consumers around the world wouldn’t eat the highest quality produce that we help supply year-round. I believe the importance of building relationships with our growers is immeasurable to our success.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of in your career?
Being selected as a fellow in the U.S. Apple Association’s 2025 NextGen Leadership Program. This program is great for upcoming leaders within the apple industry. It provides professional development, insight on legislative/regulatory activism for the industry, and networking and mentorship opportunities with others in the apple industry. Along with six other fellows, we partook in a 12-month leadership program with trips to Capitol Hill, industry conferences, and orchard visits to get more hands-on experience.
Q: What advice would you give someone new to the produce industry?
When I first started, my dad always emphasized the importance of building strong relationships. We may be in the business of selling apples, but the trust and relationship we build with growers and customers is what truly drives long-term success.
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