Passionate and enthusiastic fresh produce pioneer will be “sadly missed” by those left to run his self-built vegetable empire
William Hunter, the founder of Huntapac Produce in Lancashire, has died.
Known to many in the vegetable industry, Hunter was described by those who knew him an extremely passionate vegetable and salad, grower and packer, who will foremost be remembered as a pioneer in the root vegetable industry.
Hunter developed and built washing and processing machinery at the site in Tarleton, expanding Huntapac Produce from its humble beginnings into the multi-million-pound business it is today.
A spokesperson for Huntapac, said: “His enthusiasm never dwindled, and his ability to encourage and motivate people and involve them in the business was extraordinary. In his later years his stamina was more than equal to any young person, and his ‘can do’ attitude earned him a reputation that he could make the seemingly impossible possible.
“William knew all about sustainability many years before it became a buzzword, and although he was the busiest man in the industry, he always managed to find the time to help those in need.
“His contribution to local charities and the support he gave to the local community was immense, and contributed to the extremely high esteem in which he was held by all those who knew him.”
Another of Hunter’s passions included the restoration of lorries, many of which were used to haul produce to the factory, and for the deliveries to wholesale markets.
Today the William Hunter museum houses more than 20 vehicles, all immaculately restored to their original condition.
Huntapac Produce, meanwhile, is now run by Hunter’s two sons, Warren and Jason, along with his grandsons Will and Henry, who are now the fourth generation within the business.
The spokesperson added: “Although Hunter will be sadly missed by all, his legacy continues, and the foundations for the future of Huntapac Produce are firmly set from one man’s vision, enthusiasm, and continued commitment to excellence and perfection in everything he did.”