Our Story
The Fruit Ranch is a fourth generation family owned business that was founded in 1935 starting with the Fruit Boat (yes, a Fresh Fruit Market on a floating boat) located in Milwaukee on Water Street along the river. It was originally opened by Richard Mooney and his son Jim.
After serving his patriotic duty in World War II, Clyde “OC” Gearhart and his wife Bernice (nee Mooney) joined the company. Then in the early fifties, the first retail store was opened, which was originally called Terminal Fruit Market. It was located on 47th and Fond Du Lac Ave. In 1955 the west side store was opened and the business name was changed to FRUIT RANCH MARKETS, INC.
Over 80 years specializing in Orchard Fresh Fruit
The name change to “Fruit Ranch” identified with the large fresh fruit assortment available at the stores as well as unique groceries and gifts.
After a successful tenure in the retail market and generations of family members working at the stores, it was time for the “Fruit Ranch” to go into the history books as one of Milwaukee’s most remembered grocery stores.
But this was not the end...
Today, another generation operates a quaint little store front at 6301 West Bluemound Road where Fresh Fruit continues to be the staple of the business specializing in Orchard Fresh Fruit Baskets, Cheese and Sausage gift boxes, Themed gifts, deluxe nut gifts and much more with a focus on tasty products made from our great state of Wisconsin. Each basket is expertly packaged and distinctively arranged in a variety of hand woven baskets and packages.
Everything is made fresh to order by dedicated and caring employees. Call or order online with your basket needs and it will be ready for you with free pick-up or fast local deliveries and nationwide shipping.
