In 1919 when Fruit Growers decided to construct its mill  in Susanville there was “Gentlemen’s Agreement” with the Susanville business community. In essence, Fruit Growers would not open any retail stores. Yet, on other hand was that the Susanville’s merchants had broken that agreement by refusing to maintain fair prices. 

On December 12, 1920, Fruit Growers resident manager, S.M. Bump wired Fruit Growers President, Frank Hutchens: “Merchants can exploit they want. Started commissary this morning, already citizens desire to purchase from us because of the high prices. My answers to citizens absolutely selling to employees”*

According to Russell Brownell of Susanville, wrote Hutchens: “The consensus of opinion of the citizens of Susanville outside a few merchants is as follows that it is well known fact that retail prices are higher here than any other locality with excessive profits are being and have been exacted that living costs must come down with.wages that your company’s demands for reasonable profits must be met If men maintain their families on scale of wages. This not only of great benefit to your employees, but to every citizen in Susanville and the Honey Lake Valley and be assured that your Susanville manager will have the backing of 95% our people. The Fruit Growers Supply Company are to be congratulated for having a man at the head of their Susanville operation who has the interest of its employees at heart and the back bone to go to bat for them.”

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*The building still exists at its original location, 1700 Sunkist. It is now the Senior Center.