We are Integrated Fresh Solutions
The Complete Package for Fresh Produce Industry Needs
Our Roots and Growth
Integrated Fresh Solutions (IFS), Kool Logistics, and Fresh-Link Produce, all established in 2006, form a robust umbrella organization in the fresh produce industry. Originally focusing on East Coast vegetables, tomatoes, and produce transportation across the West Coast, IFS has developed into a premier, comprehensive solution provider.
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Kool Logistics is celebrated for its proficiency in perishable transportation. It is dedicated to delivering superior quality products while emphasizing exceptional service and reliability.
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Fresh-Link Produce, operating under the IFS banner, serves as a national produce company. It expertly connects growers with diverse market segments including food service, retail, and wholesale across North America. With offices in NJ, SC, TN, AZ, and CA, Fresh-Link represents a vast range of growers, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality produce.
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Synergy Worldwide joined the IFS family in 2020, bringing specialized services in on-demand refrigerated transportation and handling of high-risk perishables. Their integration signifies a substantial expansion of IFS's capabilities, offering extensive coverage across major produce-growing regions and delivering an unparalleled customer experience.
Our Leaders: IFS Management
Garry Rowe
President & CEO
Garry Rowe, our President and CEO, brings over 30 years of invaluable experience in the produce industry to Integrated Fresh Solutions. His extensive journey, which includes prominent roles at Sysco, CH Robinson Company, and Seald Sweet International, has uniquely positioned him as a dynamic leader.
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Garry's professional odyssey has encompassed diverse roles, ranging from National Sales and Brand Development to Supply Chain Management and Executive Leadership. His multifaceted background underscores his versatility and deep understanding of the intricacies of the industry.
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Initially hired as COO in 2010, becoming President in 2012 and then CEO in 2019, Garry’s profound impact on the company's growth and development is evident. He has consistently demonstrated a strong desire to nurture both people and business units, fostering an environment that inspires growth and opportunity.
At the heart of Garry's leadership philosophy is the belief in a "TEAM FIRST" culture. He champions an environment that prioritizes and supports employees, empowering them to become the best versions of themselves. Garry's commitment to nurturing talent and cultivating a sense of unity within the organization is a cornerstone of his leadership approach.
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Beyond his professional achievements, Garry is a dedicated advocate for promoting healthier lifestyles through produce. He firmly believes that instilling healthy eating habits in young people can lead to a healthier nation, reduced reliance on healthcare systems, and improved overall quality of life.
Dave Conn
Chief Financial Officer
Dave Conn, our Chief Financial Officer, is a seasoned finance and accounting professional with over 20 years of experience in senior-level roles. His impressive career includes leadership positions as a Controller, VP of Finance, and CFO, spanning both large public companies and nimble startups.
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With a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Rosemont College and an MBA in Finance from Wilmington University, Dave's educational foundation is robust. His commitment to financial excellence is unwavering, and it aligns perfectly with the dynamic and ever-expanding fresh produce industry.
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As the driving force behind all aspects of accounting and financial reporting for all IFS companies, Dave is a trusted partner within the IFS executive team. He collaborates to strengthen strategic growth plans and maximize shareholder value through both organic growth and mergers and acquisitions. Beyond his financial oversight, Dave also leads IT, HR, and payroll functions.
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Dave's enthusiasm for his role is fueled by the exciting opportunities within this thriving sector. He thrives in an environment that values dedication, an entrepreneurial mindset, and an unwavering drive to achieve best-in-class status.
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Based in Washington Township, NJ, Dave balances his professional career with his personal passions. When he's not shaping the financial future of the company, he can be found on the golf course or spending quality time with his beloved family. Dave is a proud father to his daughters Katie and Samantha, and a loving husband to his wife Kris. His dedication to both work and family defines his holistic approach to life and leadership.
Matt Christ
Vice President of Kool Logistics
Matt Christ has been immersed in the logistics industry since his college days, starting his career on the operations side as a broker before transitioning into business development and eventually into management. Since January 2019, Matt has been serving as the Vice President at Kool Logistics, where he continues to thrive in the fast-paced nature of the industry. For Matt, logistics is not just a job; it's a dynamic environment where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to solve problems, making each day exciting and different from the last.
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One of Matt's greatest joys is witnessing new customers experience Kool’s unparalleled service and communication levels for the first time. He takes immense pride in the company's operational expertise and likens the experience of onboarding a new customer to showing someone his favorite movie for the first time—it's a moment of shared excitement and pride.
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The culture at Kool is something Matt is deeply passionate about. He believes that everyone at the company is cut from the same cloth, treating their roles not just as jobs but as careers. This infectious enthusiasm permeates the workplace, making it a place where employees are genuinely excited to go to work each day, knowing that their colleagues share the same level of commitment and dedication. Additionally, Kool’'s genuine care for its employees, both in their professional and personal lives, is something that Matt values highly.
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Based in Hermosa Beach, CA, Matt holds a degree in Business Administration and Computer Science from 2009. He was also selected into and completed the Fresh Produce and Floral Council's Apprentice Program in 2016, further honing his expertise in the industry.
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Outside of work, Matt enjoys beach volleyball, pickleball, and barbecuing. He is married, has a daughter, and is the proud owner of two labs. While Matt is not personally a member of industry associations, Kool Logistics, where he plays a key role, is an active member of several organizations, including the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), The Southeast Produce Council (SEPC), and the Fresh Produce and Floral Council (FPFC).
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Matt's leadership style and commitment to excellence continue to drive Kool forward, making it a standout in the logistics industry.
Elizabeth Barta
Vice President of Synergy Worldwide
Elizabeth Barta is a seasoned Vice President of Operations with a rich history in the transportation, logistics, and financial industries. Since joining Synergy Worldwide in 2008, she has demonstrated her expertise in budgeting, operations management, coaching, sales, and customer satisfaction. Elizabeth's strong analytical and communication skills have been instrumental in driving success and growth within the company.
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Her tenure at Synergy Worldwide has been marked by significant milestones, including the acquisition of IFS in 2020, which she viewed as an exciting opportunity to leverage her previous experiences in a role with unlimited growth potential. Elizabeth is passionate about her work, which is evident in her dedication to her team, clients, and carriers. She thrives in a fast-paced environment, constantly solving problems and making a meaningful difference in the lives of her partners by helping both customers and carriers achieve greater success.
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Prior to her role at Synergy Worldwide, Elizabeth held positions at AJ Marketing (2006-2008) and MBNA (1999-2006), where she honed her skills and laid the foundation for her future achievements.
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Elizabeth resides in Medina, OH, and enjoys spending time with her family. Her interests outside of work include boating, reading, cooking, and playing pickleball.
