Gourmet Trading’s President Dies

Chris Martin, president and co-owner of Los Angeles-based Gourmet Trading Co., died July 23 while on a family trip to Santa Barbara. He was 48.

Martin and his brother Paul started Gourmet Trading in 1982 as an importer and distributor of fresh produce. Over the years, the company has evolved to become a grower, packer, shipper and distributor of blueberries, blackberries and green, white and purple asparagus. The company is the exclusive distributor of Green Giant Fresh Asparagus.

“Chris and I had a vision many years ago of providing a worldwide supply of asparagus, blueberries and other products to many countries around the world,” said Paul Martin. “Through Chris' vision and the support of his outstanding staff around the world, Gourmet Trading Co. has become one of the premiere suppliers in our industry. We mourn the loss of Chris whose honesty, fairness and integrity have established the lasting values by which our company will continue to operate successfully as we move on.”

Martin is survived by his wife Sharon and their four daughters.

Memorial plans will be announced separately.