Bentley Brothers Inc.

Citrus Dealers Since 1953

Company History:

Bentley Brothers Inc. was founded in 1953 by J. Welborn Bentley (retired) and William M. Bentley (deceased).  The brothers primary function during the start-up days of the company was to buy citrus fruit in bulk from local growers.  Welborn and Bill decided that since they were buying fruit they might as well invest in harvesting equipment to handle the fruit they had purchased.  Their first equipment purchase was an old, run down tractor.  This was one of the first steps taken towards building a family enterprise that has become a leader in Florida's citrus industry.

In 1972, Pat and Bob Bentley, both sons of Welborn, started working for the company.  In 1978, Pat and Bob encouraged Welborn and Bill to hire a local chemical salesman and also their youngest brother Ray to be the production manager of the company's groves.  Pat was working in the office scheduling the fruit deliveries and handling the financials and Bob was in the field, managing picking crews and buying fruit from local growers.  The brothers strived to maintain a reputation of loyalty and trust towards their customers and business associates.  The combination of a good work ethic with a strong reputation were a few of the factors involved in the company's success.  A business philosophy of conservative expansion has also contributed to the success of Bentley Brothers.  

In 2002, Bo and Jason Bentley began their careers at Bentley Brothers and became the first members of the 3rd generation to work for the family business.  Bo is working in the harvesting division while Jason is focusing on the production side of the business.  The company currently handles fruit in Polk, Highlands, Hardee, Manatee, Hillsborough, and DeSoto counties.  Charlie Hanson, who started working for the company in 1982, buys the majority of the fruit in Highlands, Hardee, and DeSoto counties.  Ben Scarborough, who started working with Bentley Brothers in 1996, is the company buyer representing Manatee, Hillsborough, and Hardee counties.

Bentley Brothers Inc. takes pride in being a safe, responsible organization.  The company is a drug free workplace and will not tolerate employees who use illegal drugs or alcohol while on the job under any circumstances.  Bentley Brothers has made it a primary focus to use top of the line equipment when performing its business operations.  The company is continually selling older equipment and upgrading its fleet with the best semi's and trailers available.  Bentley Brothers feels like their citrus  fleet is one of the best in the industry.  The company is dedicated to providing competitive prices, integrity, 50 years of citrus experience, and superior service to Florida's citrus growers.

   Bentley Brothers Inc.

P.O. Box 747

Winter Haven, FL  33882

(863) 324-2100 

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