Tony Capobianco, one of the co-founders of SA greengrocer Tony and Mark’s, has died

One of the co-founders of SA greengrocer Tony and Mark’s has been remembered as a trailblazer in the fresh produce industry following his recent death.

Tony Capobianco and brother Mark co-founded Tony and Mark’s in 1978. Picture: Facebook

Tony Capobianco, one of the co-founders of beloved SA greengrocer Tony and Mark’s, has been remembered as a trailblazer in the fresh produce industry following his recent death.

Mr Capobianco helped launch the business in 1978 alongside his brother Mark, opening their first fruit and vegetable store in Clovercrest, in Adelaide’s northeast.

Six years later, they opened a shop in Newton and they now have seven locations around Adelaide, with the business managed by Mark’s sons, Michael, Frank and Paul.

The business’s social media accounts paid tribute to the late Mr Capobianco as the ultimate family man, whose “vision, passion and hard work” helped make Tony and Mark’s a huge success.

“Uncle Tony was truly one of a kind, a man with a heart of gold. His devotion to family was second to none. Uncle Tony always reminded us that family is life’s greatest treasure,” the post said.

The late Tony Capobianco, one of the founders of Tony and Mark's. Picture: Facebook

Tony Capobianco and brother Mark co-founded Tony and Mark’s in 1978. Picture: Facebook

“His dedication shaped not only our business, his own family business and also the fresh produce industry where he was widely respected and admired.

“His absence will be deeply felt by all who were lucky enough to know him. The fresh produce industry will never be the same without him, but his legacy will live on in the lives he touched.”

Some of the industry’s biggest names were among those who left hundreds of messages in Mr Capobianco’s honour.

Lucia’s Fine Foods said his “legacy will live on forever”.

“Thank you Tony for leadership, vision and mentorship in the industry, always leading from the front,” they wrote on the Facebook post.

Angelo Demasi, South Australian Produce Market chief executive, described Mr Capobianco as a “true industry pioneer” who helped shape the marketplace today.

The late Tony Capobianco, one of the founders of Tony and Mark's. Picture: Facebook

“His tireless efforts helped establish a thriving, world-class hub for fresh produce, supporting retailers and the broader industry,” he said.

“His passing is a profound loss. I will greatly miss our conversations, and his presence and contributions will never be forgotten.”

Chiera & Sons Fresh Market said Mr Capobianco was a “well respected icon in the industry”.

“He was a true gentleman, that always had time to help anyone he could,” they wrote.