Lakeside Organic Gardens, based in Watsonville, California, has long been a pioneer in organic agriculture. Established in 1996, the company cultivates over 50 varieties of organic vegetables year-round, adhering strictly to sustainable farming practices. Their dedication to soil integrity, biodiversity, and eco-friendly methods has solidified their reputation for producing high-quality organic produce.
In a move to further this legacy, Lakeside Organic Gardens recently announced two significant promotions within their sales department. Elisha Cope, who joined the company in August 2024 as Business Development Manager, has been appointed Director of Sales and Marketing. With a robust background in the food industry, including roles at Grimmway Farms and Braga Fresh, Cope has been instrumental in enhancing customer engagement and streamlining sales operations since her arrival. In her new role, she aims to drive strategic market expansion and foster customer-centric innovation.
Owner and grower Dick Peixoto expressed enthusiasm about Cope’s promotion, stating, “Elisha’s leadership is a strong addition to our team. We’re excited to move Lakeside to the next level.”
Alongside Cope’s advancement, Hugo Raygoza has been promoted to Sales Manager. Raygoza’s journey with Lakeside Organic Gardens began in December 2015. With deep roots in Watsonville and extensive retail experience at Costco Wholesale, he has played a pivotal role in strengthening relationships with key customers and expanding the company’s reach into national and Canadian markets. His promotion reflects his commitment and vision for the future of the company.
Raygoza shared his pride in the company’s mission, stating, “I am very proud to be part of this company and to see our organic vegetables on store shelves feeding communities coast to coast.” He further emphasized the benefits of the company’s vertically integrated structure, which provides agility and value to customers.
These leadership changes come at a time when the organic produce market is experiencing significant growth. According to the Organic Trade Association, organic food sales in the United States reached $62 billion in 2024, marking a 12% increase from the previous year. This surge underscores the growing consumer demand for organic products and the importance of strong leadership in meeting market needs.
Lakeside Organic Gardens’ commitment to sustainability extends beyond their farming practices. The company is set to host buyers for an exclusive field tour during the 2025 Organic Produce Summit in Monterey this July, showcasing their dedication to excellence in organic farming. Their practices focus on conserving water, reducing energy consumption, protecting wildlife, and building healthier soils for future generations.
The promotions of Elisha Cope and Hugo Raygoza signify Lakeside Organic Gardens’ dedication to strengthening its leadership to navigate the evolving organic produce market. Their combined expertise is poised to drive the company’s mission of delivering premium organic vegetables while adhering to principles of sustainability and innovation.
