Produce Business Quiz Winner: GLORIA SCHOPPEL

Office Staff
Vineland Cooperative Produce Auction
Vineland, NJ

At Vineland Cooperative Produce Auction, Vineland, NJ, Gloria Schoppel keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes. Her role involves verifying produce sales, ensuring buyers and growers are on the same page, and entering daily information into the auction system — work that demands both accuracy and a deep understanding of the fast-paced produce trade.

Schoppel’s roots in the produce industry go way back. She’s spent her entire career in produce and trucking alongside her late husband, Charlie. Even after retiring for a year, she found she missed the business. “I retired one year and found that I needed to keep busy, so when the staff of the Vineland Produce Auction asked if I wanted to return on a seasonal basis, I accepted.”

She says the best part of her career is interaction with people. “I’ve worked with many of the same folks throughout my career and have watched some of them grow up and build their own businesses. Now, I get to share my experiences with the younger staff — and we laugh a lot, which keeps me young!”

Outside of work, Schoppel treasures time with her family, including three great-grandchildren. She also enjoys gardening and helping care for the many animals her family raises.

When asked what she likes best about Produce Business, she says she appreciates learning how retailers across the country promote fresh produce in their regions. It’s one more way she stays connected to the industry she’s spent a lifetime supporting.

As this month’s winner, she will receive a $200 Amazon gift card.