Jorge Fierro is a local business icon with a personality as vibrant and flavorful as his salsa.

He’s the owner of Salt Lake City based Rico Foods and you’ve likely seen his products at Smith’s, Whole Foods or any Associated Food Store in northern Utah.

It all began modestly with Fierro selling salsa and burritos, all from family recipes, at the downtown Farmer’s Market 22 years ago.

“Those are my roots. Those are my customers,” Fierro said. “It just makes my soul happy to be there and to continue the tradition.”

Now, nearly a quarter of a century later, his beans, tortillas, salsas and pre-packaged foods can be found at retailers and restaurants across northern Utah. 

And amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Fierro’s sales grew by 30 percent in 2020 as consumers flocked to grocery stores.

But this summer, even with sales boosted by pandemic-led retail sales, Fierro faced a crisis. His rent was rising to an unsustainable level due to economic growth and development in Salt Lake City.

His lease was to expire on August 31st and his business needed to adapt quickly to meet the growing demand. Faced with an opportunity to move his main distribution center and office space, Fierro considered relocation to Murray or West Jordan.

Article continues here: https://slcecondev.com/2020/12/02/rico-foods-finds-new-salt-lake-city-home/