meet the grower

For Manuel Vieira, Farming Spans Generations and ContinentsAV Thomas Produce was started in 1920 by Manuel Vieira’s uncle, who immigrated to California from the island of Pico, Azores in Portugal. He began growing sweet potatoes in Livingston in 1960. Twelve years later, Manuel, also from Pico, joined his uncle and spent the next five years learning the trade from him. Manuel eventually took over the business, growing it into one of the largest in the country.

Manuel E. Vieira owner • AV Thomas Produce Livingston, CA

Manuel (center) with his sons Rick and Carlos.

Growing a Family Legacy Manuel, his family, and up to 1,000 workers grow, pack and ship over 100 million pounds of yams and sweet potatoes every year.

Organic Natural BeautiesThe farm grows 2,700 acres of certified organic sweet potatoes and yams: Garnets, Jewels, Sweets and Orientals.

Super Food – Super InnovationAV Thomas offers innovative products like individually wrapped microwavable sweet potatoes and ready-to-serve baby yams.

“Our accomplishments are … due to the talent and hard work of our supervisors, managers and employees, our top quality growers, and the loyalty of our suppliers and customers.” – Manuel Vieira