Built By Growers For Growers
Modern Produce Equipment started with two brothers looking for a better way to handle their own potato crop, and grew into a trusted source for vegetable handling equipment across the potato, onion, and carrot industries.
Our Story
Modern Produce Equipment was founded in 2015 in Fremont, Michigan, after brothers Tom and Kent Karnemaat were looking for a better way to manage their potato crop after harvest. In search of a more efficient solution, they turned to Tong Engineering, a global leader in vegetable handling equipment. That relationship laid the foundation for what would become Modern Produce Equipment.
Today, through partnerships with Tong Engineering, Stanhay, M&P Engineering, and Nicholson Machinery, Modern Produce Equipment provides some of the most advanced vegetable handling and processing equipment in the industry. We specialize in solutions for the potato, onion, and carrot industries, offering everything from individual machines to complete processing systems.
Our experienced team is committed to helping customers find the right equipment for their operation and providing dependable service and support long after installation. From the first conversation to ongoing technical assistance, we are dedicated to delivering innovative equipment and exceptional customer service that growers and processors can rely on.
We Work With You And Your Requirements
Equipment For Every Stage Of Your Line
We specialize in vegetable handling and processing equipment for the potato, onion, and carrot industries, from a single machine to a complete system.
Our Manufacturer Partnerships

Tong Engineering
A global leader in vegetable handling equipment, from individual machines to complete potato, onion, and carrot processing systems.

Stanhay
Precision seed drills and planting equipment for the potato, onion, and carrot industries.

M&P Engineering
Processing equipment built for the potato, onion, and carrot industries, from washing and grading to filling and packing.

Nicholson Machinery
Additional vegetable handling and processing machinery that rounds out our equipment lineup for growers and processors.
The People Behind Modern Produce Equipment
Tom Karnemaat
Ownertkman@modernproduceequipment.comTom oversees the overall operations at Modern Produce Equipment, guiding the company's direction and building strong relationships within the food processing industry. He works closely with equipment manufacturers, customers, and partners to ensure the business continues to grow and meet evolving market needs. With over 50 years of farming experience, Tom brings a deep understanding of agricultural production and the practical knowledge that comes from decades of purchasing and working with vegetable handling equipment. His passion for the industry and commitment to innovation help position Modern Produce Equipment for long-term success.
Tom Wiersema
U.S. Salestom@modernproduceequipment.comAs Head of U.S. Sales for Modern Produce Equipment, Tom Wiersema plays a vital role in building and maintaining strong customer relationships across the country. He leads the U.S. sales department, overseeing every stage of the sales process to ensure that our equipment meets the unique needs of each customer. Tom's hands-on approach and deep understanding of produce handling systems allow him to match the right solutions to the right operations, helping customers improve efficiency and product quality. Known for his approachable style and commitment to service, Tom works closely with both farmers and processors to make sure they have the tools and support they need to succeed. His leadership in sales continues to drive Modern Produce Equipment's growth and reputation nationwide.
Joe Berger
Sales Engineerjberger@modernproduceequipment.comAs Sales Engineer at Modern Produce Equipment, Joe Berger bridges the gap between customer needs and engineering solutions. He works closely with clients to ensure every piece of equipment meets their exact specifications, from initial design through final installation. Joe creates detailed CAD drawings that bring projects to life, oversees installation operations to guarantee a smooth process, and anticipates future engineering challenges customers may face. His problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and attention to detail make him an invaluable resource for both our customers and our team. Whether it is customizing equipment for a unique application or refining designs for maximum efficiency, Joe ensures that every solution is built to perform and built to last.
Jaxon Deur
Marketing / After Sales Supportjaxon@modernproduceequipment.comJaxon oversees the parts and service department as well as after-sales customer support at Modern Produce Equipment. In his role, he ensures customers receive ongoing assistance to maximize the longevity and performance of their equipment. Jaxon also leads marketing efforts and explores market growth opportunities to help the company expand its reach. By working closely with customers, he is dedicated to ensuring they are satisfied with their investments and supported throughout the lifecycle of their equipment.
About Us FAQ
We are based in Fremont, Michigan, and work with growers and processors across the potato, onion, and carrot industries nationwide.
We supply vegetable handling and processing equipment through our partnerships with Tong Engineering, Stanhay, M&P Engineering, and Nicholson Machinery, from individual machines to complete processing systems.
Yes. Our parts department sources parts for the equipment we sell, and our team stays available for technical assistance long after installation.
Yes. Complete our financing application to get started, and our team will follow up with the details for your equipment purchase.
Ready To Talk About Your Equipment Needs?
Reach out to our team to find the right vegetable handling equipment for your operation, or request parts for the equipment you already run.


