Sierra Sun Fruit was founded in 2010 during a time of major consolidation and uncertainty in the California tree fruit industry. While many were stepping away, Paul Luallen—a Fresno State graduate, first-generation farmer, and produce industry veteran with more than 30 years of experience—took a leap of faith. Alongside a small group of growers who believed in a different approach, Paul formed Sierra Sun Fruit Marketing with a simple goal: to bring flavorful, well-grown fruit to market with integrity and care.

The company began humbly, with limited acreage, small pack lines, and sales managed from a home office. In those early years, Sierra Sun Fruit handled just over 100,000 boxes of fruit. Growth came steadily and intentionally, driven by trust, strong relationships, and a commitment to quality rather than rapid expansion.

As the business evolved, Paul invited his son Dillon Luallen, also a Fresno State graduate, to join the company. Although Dillon initially planned to pursue a different career path, his background in quality control and cold storage operations—working hands-on during the summers—made the transition natural. Once he joined the business, Dillon never looked back.

Today, Paul and Dillon are not only partners in business but also growers themselves, each owning and operating their own farms. Together, they have built a vertically integrated grower, packer, and shipper operation offering full, start-to-finish programs. Sierra Sun Fruit now provides a season-long California stone fruit program from May through October, while also anchoring a strong fall lineup of pomegranates, Asian pears, persimmons, and quince.

While Sierra Sun Fruit has grown into a leading shipper of premium California fruit, its values have remained unchanged. The company continues to operate with a hands-on, family-first approach—staying true to its farming roots in an industry increasingly dominated by large corporations. Every piece of fruit that carries the Sierra Sun name reflects the same commitment it was founded on: exceptional flavor, honest partnerships, and pride in the land that makes it all possible.