Produce Watch

Wakefern Food Corp.

Wakefern Food Corp., Keasbey, NJ, appointed Travis Riepenhoff as group vice president, fresh. Riepenhoff succeeds Mark Van Buskirk, who now leads Wakefern’s Center Store divisions as group vice president. Riepenhoff will oversee Wakefern’s fresh food divisions, including foodservice, bakery, meat,... Read more

Ippolito International

Ippolito International, Salinas, CA, has added Heather Fuller to its sales team as vice president of business development. With over 20 years in the fresh produce business, Fuller began her industry work as a field inspector in the Salinas Valley,... Read more

JBJ and Veg-Land

Elisha Cope has joined the team at JBJ and Veg-Land, Fullerton, CA, where she will take on a pivotal role in driving the development and expansion of the company’s organic vegetable program. With a career spanning over a decade in... Read more

Lidl US CEO Joel Rampoldt to Keynote PLMA’s 2025 Trade Show

Joel Rampoldt, chief executive of Lidl US, will deliver the keynote address at PLMA’s 2025 Private Label Trade Show, Nov. 16-18 in Chicago. A business leader with a track record in large-scale retail transformations, Rampoldt has widely recognized expertise in... Read more

Mission Produce Expands Distribution to Miami

Mission Produce Inc., Oxnard, CA, is expanding its operations and distribution to Miami, FL, enabling the company to directly service customers in Florida with its signature World’s Finest Avocados and World’s Finest Mangos, as well as provide ripening and bagging... Read more

CMI Orchards Creates Sustainability Program

CMI Orchards, Wenatchee, WA, has launched CMI SOARS: Sustainable Orchards and Regenerative Solutions, designed to advance sustainability and regenerative agriculture across the tree fruit industry. The CMI SOARS includes a comprehensive greenhouse gas inventory and annual sustainability report, the development... Read more

IBO Launches BlueCareers: A Global Recruitment Platform for the Blueberry Industry

The International Blueberry Organization (IBO) is launching BlueCareers, a new recruitment platform developed specifically for the global blueberry industry. Designed to bring together employers and professionals, BlueCareers serves as a centralized hub for career opportunities, job postings, resume submissions and... Read more

OTA Celebrates 40th Anniversary with New Campaign Launch

As the Organic Trade Association (OTA), Washington, celebrates 40 years, the organization launched the “Seal Makes It Simple” campaign, aimed at raising consumer awareness about the benefits of organic for personal well-being and the environment. OTA developed integrated media, digital,... Read more

TIPA Compostable Packaging Launches Home Compostable Label for Fresh Produce

TIPA Compostable Packaging, Nordhorn, Germany, together with Bio4Pack, its European subsidiary, has launched a new certified home compostable label for fresh produce. Produce stickers are one of the top five most persistent contaminants in compost, prompting a global transition to... Read more

Green Life Farms of Florida is now Sunswell Greens

Green Life Farms, Lake Worth, FL, grower of hydroponic lettuce, microgreens, and specialty greens, has begun a new chapter as Sunswell Greens. This rebrand reflects the company’s focus on using Florida’s natural advantages to grow greens that stay fresh longer,... Read more

NASCAR Star Ross Chastain Shifts ‘10 Years Fresh’ into High Gear

Racing met retail as about 200 fans steered over to Market 32 in Malta, NY, Sept. 10 to meet NASCAR star Ross Chastain. The meet-and-greet near the neighboring Albany-Saratoga Speedway brought Cup Series Playoff fever to customers, marking one of... Read more

IFPA Award Winners Revolutionizing Retail

Winners of the International Fresh Produce Association’s (IFPA) Retail Merchant Innovation Award will be recognized at the Retail Awards Reception, Oct. 17 at the Global Produce & Floral Show in Anaheim, CA.IFPA awarded winners in five store-count categories: Michelle Mayhew,... Read more

SnapDragon Apple Harvest Promises More Monster Crunch

Crunch Time Apple Growers, Newark, NY, a cooperative of more than 160 apple growers, is kicking off the 2025 harvest of SnapDragon apples. Known for their big crunch, sweet and spicy flavor, and red skin, SnapDragon apples — the official... Read more

Bland Farms Wins Dual Category Leadership Awards

Bland Farms, Glennville, GA, has earned the 2025 Grocery Insights Category Leadership Award in both onions and sweet potatoes, while Director of Sales Sloan Lott has been appointed chairman of the board for the Southeast Produce Council (SEPC). With roots... Read more

Walmart Joins Riveridge Produce Marketing for Tour

Just in time for “International Eat an Apple Day,” several local Walmart leaders and store managers joined representatives from Riveridge Produce Marketing for a farm and facility tour. The event brought together local growers, business stakeholders and policymakers to celebrate... Read more

Sabert Corporation

Sabert Corporation, Sayreville, NJ, appointed Ricardo De Genova as senior vice president of innovation, reporting to Paul McCann, chief executive. In this role, De Genova will oversee Sabert’s Global Centers for Innovation, new product development, design, and marketing/product management teams.... Read more

Driscoll’s

Driscoll’s, Watsonville, CA, appointed Jiunn Shih as its global chief marketing officer, effective Sept. 15. In this newly created role, Shih will build a global marketing structure and expand investment in brand programs across Driscoll’s markets. He will be based... Read more

Sell Anywhere with the New Famous Software Sales App

Access to reliable data has never been more important than in today’s dynamic environment, especially in the fresh produce industry. Famous Software’s portfolio of apps gives customers reliable data on the go. The new Famous Sales App, now available for... Read more

Misionero Unveils Crispy Harvest Blends

Misionero, Gonzales, CA, introduced Crispy Harvest Blends. Available in organic or conventional, and in green or red-and-green formats, Crispy Harvest Blends are sweet, crunchy, and packed with flavor — a standout for both foodservice and retail.Designed for more than just... Read more

California Giant Berry Farms Raises Nearly $50,000 for Local Nonprofits

California Giant Berry Farms, Watsonville, CA, raised $49,800 at its 19th annual Skirt Steak BBQ. The event, which brought together over 1,200 community members, benefits local organizations. The annual barbecue has grown from a small lunch for the sales team... Read more

Melissa’s Introduces Baby Elefante Green Gold Pineapple

Melissa’s Produce, Los Angeles, CA, announces the arrival of the Baby Elefante Green Gold Pineapple, a Melissa’s exclusive variety grown in Ghana. Unlike traditional pineapples, this white-fleshed, compact fruit offers a unique shape and vibrant green-gold skin. With its naturally... Read more

Carolina Distribution Center

One Banana, Coral Gables, FL, has opened a new 19,800-square-foot ripening and distribution center 12 miles from the Port of Wilmington, NC, to speed fresh produce to East Coast and Mid-Atlantic markets for their current banana clients as well as... Read more

Nonna Life and Del Fresco Pure Join Forces to Celebrate Tomato Season

Nonna Life, a lifestyle brand that celebrates Italian Canadian culture, and Del Fresco Pure, Toronto, Ontario, a family-owned and -operated company located in the heart of Canada’s greenhouse industry, joined forces on their second brand collaboration: Hot Nonna Summer. This... Read more

B&W Quality Growers Teams Up with Chef Salvatore Ferro

B&W Quality Growers, Fellsmere, FL, is redefining what leafy greens can do in professional kitchens with Power 4, a nutrient-rich blend of watercress, baby spinach, baby arugula and baby green kale. To showcase the potential of this blend, B&W collaborated... Read more

Bolthouse Helps Retailers Capitalize on Peak Carrot Demand This Fall

Bolthouse Fresh Foods, Bakersfield, CA, is helping retailers prepare for one of the busiest carrot consumption periods of the year, offering a full portfolio of fresh carrot solutions to meet the seasonal surge in demand from back-to-school snacking through new... Read more

Todd Greiner Farms Gears Up for Fall with Pumpkins and Winter Squash

Todd Greiner Farms Packing, LLC. (TGF), Hart, MI, will start its fall shipping season, offering a full lineup of pumpkins and winter squash, starting the week of Labor Day. Known for premium asparagus and summer sweet corn, TGF is quickly... Read more

Akorn announces Brazil expansion

Akorn Technology, Berkeley, CA, will be expanding its presence in Brazil, enabling more Brazilian producers to take advantage of growing demand for chemical-free shelf life extension solutions for both export and domestic markets. The application of Akorn’s all-natural solutions will... Read more

Minnesota Grocers Association Recognize 2025 Award Winners

The Minnesota Grocers Association (MGA), St. Paul, MN, announced that Andrea Teal of Teal’s Management in Cold Spring, MN, is the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Grocer Award. The MGA presented the 2025 Outstanding Vendor Award to Tom Hall, group... Read more

SL Produce Puts Focus on Sustainability

SL Produce, Los Mochis, Mexico, has committed to making ongoing, substantial investments in an ambitious sustainability strategy, which it hopes will help alleviate challenging growing conditions. With SL’s home state of Sinaloa facing an unprecedented drought, the company is placing... Read more

Wakefern Food Corp. to Purchase Morton Williams

Wakefern Food Corp., Keasbey, NJ, announced it has entered into an agreement to purchase Morton Williams stores in the New York metro area. New Jersey-based Wakefern will retain the Morton Williams name. A wholly owned subsidiary of Wakefern will operate... Read more

Potandon Produce

Potandon Produce LLC, Idaho Falls, ID has appointed Mike Behrendt as regional director of product procurement, based in Pendleton, IN. Behrendt brings decades of leadership across the produce industry, most recently serving in senior roles at Grimmway Farms. He also... Read more

FiveStar Gourmet Foods

FiveStar Gourmet Foods, Rancho Cucamonga, CA, home of Simply Fresh, appointed Liz Atlee as general counsel and chief compliance officer. Atlee brings a background in legal affairs, ethics and compliance, most recently serving as SVP and chief ethics and compliance... Read more

Pear Bureau Northwest

USA Pears, Milwaukie, OR, has named Barbara Ruhs, MS, RDN, as director of nutrition affairs and communications, effective immediately. Ruhs is a registered dietitian nutritionist and leader in retail health promotion. A successful nutrition communications consultant, she is the former... Read more

Calavo Highlights Jumbo Avocados with PLU Stickers

Calavo Growers, Inc., Santa Paula, CA, announced the introduction of distinctive new PLU stickers for its largest avocado sizes. These oversized labels are designed to prominently feature Calavo’s “Super Jumbo” avocados, enhancing their visibility and appeal on retail shelves. The... Read more

Rave Backed by Freshness and Influencer Buzz

Retailers looking to kickstart the apple category this fall can look no further than Rave. Grown by Stemilt in Washington state, by YES! Apples in New York, and by Applewood Fresh in Michigan, Rave apples are among the first apples... Read more

More Michigan Sweet Corn on Market

Todd Greiner Farms Packing, LLC. (TGF), Hart, MI, announced the beginning of its 2025 sweet corn season, with peak volume expected the week of Aug. 17. This season, TGF is offering premium bi-color sweet corn, commonly known as “butter and... Read more

California Prunes Signal Tight Supply

The California Prune Board (CPB) announces its official estimate for the 2025 crop at approximately 65,000 short tons — a smaller volume compared to recent seasons, with implications for supply and trade planning in the months ahead. While growers report... Read more

Duda Farm Fresh Foods Expands Georgia Sweet Corn Facility

Duda Farm Fresh Foods, Oviedo, FL, has expanded with an on-site fresh-cut corn processing facility within its Georgia sweet corn operations. The new facility mirrors the same technology and processes used across all of Duda’s existing corn processing locations in... Read more

Katzman Produce Announces Organics Department

Katzman Produce, Bronx, NY, part of Katzman’s family of companies, has announced its expansion into organics. The 100+ year old wholesaler, based on the Hunts Point Produce Market, has created a dedicated organics department to better service its customers.Katzman Produce’s... Read more

Gem-Pack Berries featured in Bringing It to The Table Docuseries

Gem-Pack Berries, Santa Monica, CA, has been featured in Bringing It To the Table, a farm-to-table docuseries produced by Reighn World Entertainment. The show offers an inside look at the agricultural industry, connecting viewers to the farmers and lands that... Read more

Avocados From Colombia Brand Debuts in the U.S. Market

The Colombia Avocado Board (CAB), Orlando, FL, has launched the “Avocados From Colombia” brand in the United States. The debut comes at a pivotal time for the industry, as shipments of Colombian avocados to the U.S. have reached their highest... Read more

Fresh Del Monte

Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., Coral Gables, FL, appointed Miles Fraser-Jones as vice president of sales and product management, deciduous and citrus (international). Fraser-Jones will oversee North American sales and lead international sourcing and product management for the company’s deciduous... Read more

FMI

FMI — The Food Industry Association, Arlington, VA, has named Jessica Tanner as its director of legal operations. In her role, Tanner will advise FMI on legal operations, regulatory strategy and policy. Specifically, she will work alongside FMI counsel and... Read more

Lacerta Launches New Seal N’ Flip Packaging Design

Continuing its commitment to environmental sustainability in packaging, Lacerta Group, LLC, Mansfield, MA, announced the rollout of its newest innovation, Seal N’ Flip packaging. Coming at a time when food retailers and brands are focused on their bottom line, the... Read more

Cucumber Coating Could Spell End to Single-Use Plastic Wraps on Supermarket Shelves

Akorn Technology, Berkeley, CA, has launched a breakthrough in sustainable shelf-life extension for cucumbers — an edible coating that is set to revolutionize the way cucumbers are packed, distributed, sold and consumed by replacing single-use plastic wraps. Akorn Natural Advantage... Read more

GoVerden Launches New Premium Homestyle Guacamole

GoVerden, Laredo, TX, the maker of all-natural, ready-made guacamole, has announced the launch of its new Homestyle Guacamole. This latest product, crafted by third-generation avocado farmers, is now available exclusively at Sam’s Club. Large chunks of ripe avocados are combined... Read more

FMI Announces 2025 Store Manager Awardees

FMI — The Food Industry Association, Arlington, VA, unveils recipients of the 2025 Store Manager Awards. After receiving more than 170 nominations, the field was narrowed to 11 finalists whose stories have been showcased on FMI’s website. The 2025 Store... Read more

New BrightFarms Greenhouse in Georgia

BrightFarms celebrated the opening of its newest greenhouse in Macon, GA. BrightFarms and its parent company Cox Farms, a Cox Enterprises company, invited Macon leaders and other distinguished guests from across the state to explore the future of greenhouse technology.... Read more

Market 32 and Price Chopper Launch Summer Shines Here

At Market 32 and Price Chopper, based in Schenectady, NY, the summer shopping experience is getting a splash of sunshine. Running through Labor Day, Summer Shines Here is a new initiative from Market 32 and Price Chopper to transform the... Read more

Eastern Produce Council Hosts 50th Annual Golf Outing

The Eastern Produce Council (EPC) hosted its 50th annual Golf Outing, June 10, at Fox Hollow Golf Club in Branchburg, NJ. EPC Board Member Rich Martin served as the master of ceremonies following the round of golf. He recognized sponsors... Read more

Del Fresco Pure Secures Title of the Overall Coolest Cuke

Del Fresco Pure took home impressive hardware from the 18th annual R.E.A.C.H. International Greenhouse Competitions that took place May 23 in Kingsville, Ontario, which included: first place (cucumber category), Del Fresco Pure Organic English Seedless Cucumber; first place (yellow bell... Read more

Rafael Teran Melchor Named 2025 Farmworker of the Year

Rafael Teran Melchor of Stemilt Growers has been named the 2025 recipient of the Farmworker of the Year Award, a national recognition program that honors farmworkers for their exceptional leadership, contributions and impact on the fresh produce industry. Now in... Read more

Village Farms International Announces Transaction to Privatize its Fresh Produce Business

Vanguard Food LP, a privately held produce industry joint venture between Kennedy Lewis Investment Management, Sweat Equities, and Village Farms International, Delta, British Columbia, announced the closing of a transaction that created a new, emerging leader in the North American... Read more

Avocados From Colombia Launches Retail Campaign with Weis Markets

The Colombia Avocado Board (CAB) partnered with Weis Markets, Inc. to launch the Heart of Colombia Avocado Display Contest, a retail campaign designed to drive consumer excitement and increase impulse avocado purchases. Running from March 27 through April 23, the... Read more

Pazazz Donates 12,000 Pounds of Apples to Second Harvest Heartland

Honeybear Brands, Elgin, MN, and its exclusive brand Pazazz teamed up with professional hockey standout Taylor Heise to “Assist Second Harvest Heartland” during the 2024-25 hockey season. The partnership paid off big time – with the Frost winning their second... Read more

Markon Welcomes Customers to the Salinas Valley

As part of its ongoing commitment to transparency, education, and customer connection, Markon, Salinas, CA, hosted a Customer Tour series in Salinas Valley, June 9. During the Summer of Salinas tour, Markon invited restaurant owner-operators and member representatives to see... Read more

Idaho Potato Commission

After nearly 17 years with the Idaho Potato Commission and over 50 years in the food industry, Armand Lobato has retired. Lobato began his career in 1974 as a courtesy clerk in Denver, CO. From those early days, he steadily... Read more

Wonderful Pistachios Launches ‘The Don’t Hold Back Snack’ Campaign

Wonderful Pistachios, Los Angeles, CA, is turning up the flavor and the fun with its newest marketing campaign, “The Don’t Hold Back Snack.” Designed to fuel excitement and drive demand in anticipation of a record-setting California pistachio harvest this fall,... Read more

Orchard View Cherries to Deliver Standout Season With 30% Larger Crop

As cherry lovers anticipate the arrival of summer, Orchard View Cherries, The Dalles, OR, is preparing to kick off what promises to be a strong season, June 12. With more than a century of expertise growing cherries on the banks... Read more

Sinclair’s Home Compostable Fruit Label Up For ‘Sustainability Initiative of the Year Award’

Sinclair has been announced as a finalist in The Grocer Gold Awards 2025. This nomination comes as an industry recognition for its breakthrough T55 home and industrial compostable fruit sticker, which has been considered by many as the future of... Read more

California Walnut Commission Applauds USDA for Support of Walnut Growers

The California Walnut Commission, Folsom, CA, commends U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins for her leadership and advocacy during May’s trade mission to the U.K., which highlighted significant opportunities for American agricultural exports. The mission, Rollins’ first since taking office,... Read more

Red Sun Farms Wins in Greenhouse Competition

The 2025 Greenhouse Competition in Leamington, Ontario, has announced its winners for this year’s event. The Leamington, Ontario area is recognized as one of the largest greenhouse industries in North America, driving innovation in new products, technology and great flavors.... Read more

Ocean Mist Farms Wrapping Up Successful Spring Artichoke Season

Ocean Mist Farms, Castroville, CA, is wrapping up a successful spring artichoke season as the company transitions into its Northern California summer season. Ocean Mist Farms’ spring and summer artichokes are grown from perennial plants that perform best in cooler... Read more

Kapi Kapi Growers

Kapi Kapi Growers, Miami, FL, announces team expansion with the hiring of a new director of supply chain, Marissa Geoffroy, a 17-year industry veteran. Geoffroy is now leading Kapi Kapi’s logistics team, overseeing all inbound ocean freight, as well as... Read more

Cal-Organic Farms Adds Organic Fresh-Cut Vegetables

Cal-Organic Farms, Bakersfield, CA, is expanding into the organic value-added vegetable category with a new line of organic fresh-cut vegetables. The new line converts Cal-Organic Farms’ vegetables into a convenient, ready-to-eat format. The chopped greens line includes green kale, lacinato... Read more

Grimmway Farms launches Carrot Fries Air Fryer Kits

Grimmway Farms, Bakersfield, CA, introduced a new air fryer product line. The line is the first carrot air fryer product on the market and will include two flavors that complement the sweet, earthy flavor of carrots: Mediterranean Herb and Chipotle... Read more

Fyffes School Fitness Program Awarded

Fyffes, an Irish fruit importer, received a 2025 Gold Star Award at the annual APMC Awards gala ceremony held in Dublin recently, in acknowledgment of its Ireland’s Fittest School initiative. Developed in conjunction with TITAN Experience, a central feature of... Read more

Equitable Food Initiative Marks 10-Year Milestone

Equitable Food Initiative (EFI), the workforce development and certification organization that partners with growers, farmworkers, retailers and consumer advocacy groups, is celebrating its 10-year anniversary. Since its founding, EFI has worked with 90 farming operations across five countries, improving working... Read more

Eataly Elevates Mushrooms in Spring Campaign

The Mushroom Council and Eataly launched a three-month promotion spotlighting fresh mushrooms as a star ingredient in seasonal cooking. Rooted in the growing momentum of Mushroom Monday, the partnership spans three locations: New York City’s Flatiron store in April, Eataly... Read more

Heritable, CIV and Mastronardi Partner to Develop Precision Breeding for Indoor Strawberries

Heritable Agriculture, Paul J. Mastronardi, and CIV (Consorzio Italiano Vivaisti) have partnered to develop an advanced strawberry improvement program for greenhouse and tabletop varieties. This partnership represents a trifecta of expertise, marrying the genetics and germplasm knowledge of CIV, the... Read more

Wish Farms Runs for Sweetness with Berry Bolt 5k Charity Event

Plant City, FL-based, Wish Farms, opened its headquarters for the first-ever Berry Bolt 5K Run For Sweetness. The company welcomed runners, sponsors and the public to their blueberry farm to raise money for its philanthropic efforts and the United Food... Read more

Crystal Valley Foods Unveils Redesigned Website and New Logo

Crystal Valley Foods, Miami, FL, launched a redesigned website and a new logo. The updates mark a step forward in the company’s commitment to innovation, accessibility and brand evolution. The revamped website offers a user-friendly experience tailored to meet the... Read more

Mexican Avocado Industry Unites to Drive Sustainability

The Avocado Institute of Mexico launched its “Path to Sustainability,” a strategic initiative to enhance environmental stewardship in the Mexico avocado industry. With a new strategic vision, the Path to Sustainability will guide the industry’s commitment to sustainability and quality,... Read more

Viva Fresh Celebrates Sold-Out Show and Record Attendance

The 2025 Viva Fresh Expo commemorated its 10th anniversary this year in Houston, TX. With a sold-out show floor, attendee registration of 2,760 participants — including 438 buyers — the 2025 event is a testament to a decade of progress... Read more

NatureSweet

NatureSweet, San Antonio, TX, has announced two strategic leadership appointments. Dean Taylor, a seasoned agricultural strategist with over 15 years of executive leadership experience, has been named chief of staff. Also joining the NatureSweet leadership team is Josh McCallum, appointed... Read more

Ippolito International

Ippolito International, Salinas, CA, has added David Soto as senior supply chain manager. Soto, a produce veteran, comes to Ippolito International from Dole Fresh Vegetables, where he spent nearly two decades. His experience includes developing sales programs, transportation management, pricing... Read more

Baldor Specialty Foods

Baldor Specialty Foods, Bronx, NY, appointed industry veteran David McInerney as its new president. McInerney, former chief executive and co-founder of FreshDirect, brings over 30 years of experience in food retailing, operations, and supply chain innovation to Baldor. T.J. Murphy... Read more

California Giant Berry Farms Announces Strong Domestic Blueberry Crop

California Giant Berry Farms, Watsonville, CA, shares a blueberry crop update forecasting increased volumes of organic and conventionally grown blueberries. The promising start to the domestic blueberry season has come with early season harvests underway. Conventional blueberry production is ramping... Read more

Melissa’s Produce Kicks Off Ojai Pixie Tangerine Harvest

The Ojai Pixie Tangerine season is officially underway, and Melissa’s Produce, Los Angeles, CA, is supporting the co-op of family-run citrus growers in the Ojai Valley. This year, the Pixie harvest is looking especially promising, with a strong harvest of... Read more

Fyffes Recognized for Environmental Sustainability Contribution

Irish fruit importer Fyffes has been commended for its contribution to environmental sustainability at the PwC Business Post Sustainable Business Awards gala ceremony held recently in Dublin, Ireland. Ciaran Sweeney, managing director at Fyffes Ireland, accepted the award on behalf... Read more

EPC Leadership Class Tours Philly Port and Wholesale Market

Members of the 2025 Eastern Produce Council (EPC) Leadership Class viewed the complexity of the supply chain first-hand during a March 18 tour of the Philadelphia Wholesale Produce Market (PWPM) and Holt Logistics. The day began at the Philly wholesale... Read more

Stemilt

Stemilt, Wenatchee, WA, selected Jana Fischback as its new sustainability coordinator in the food safety and compliance department. Fischback comes to Stemilt following over seven years of experience as co-founder of the educational nonprofit Sustainable NCW in Wenatchee. In this... Read more

Natural Delights

Natural Delights, Yuma, AZ, promoted Natalia Dentoni to senior brand manager, alongside expanded roles for Shayna Telesmanic, Mauro Santelli and Bridgette Weber. Dentoni joined Natural Delights in 2021 as digital marketing manager. In her new role, Dentoni will oversee a... Read more

Mushroom Council

The Mushroom Council, Lee’s Summit, MO, is expanding its marketing team with the addition of two produce marketing leaders. Cristie Mather steps in as vice president of marketing, and Adriane Rippberger joins as director of marketing. Collectively in their careers,... Read more

Titan Farms Expands into Organics

Titan Farms, Ridge Spring, SC, grower, packer, and shipper of fresh peaches in the Eastern U.S., is announcing a partnership with Watsonia Farms and the Watson Family. This collaboration marks an expansion of Titan Farms’ offerings, introducing certified organic peaches... Read more

Grapetech 2025 Coming to Chile

Santiago, Chile, will be the site of the first-ever GrapeTech, June 18, 2025, at the Casino Monticello Events Center. Organized by UvaNova, a benchmark in Chilean grape research and development, and Yentzen Group, a world leader in information and events... Read more

California Giant Berry Farms Announces Availability of Jumbo Blueberries

California Giant Berry Farms, Watsonville, CA, is spotlighting its GIANT Blueberries, large (20mm+) and flavorful berries now available in a new label design, selected by California Giant’s consumer audience. California Giant’s GIANT Blueberries are available in good volume from March... Read more

Giumarra Elevates DulceVida Nectarine Program with Unique PLU Codes

In advance of the 2025 California stone fruit season, the Giumarra Companies, Los Angeles, CA, introduced unique PLU codes for its exclusive DulceVida branded nectarine program. The new PLU codes will allow retailers to simplify inventory management and differentiate premium... Read more

Mushroom Council Hosts Industry Marketing Summit

The Mushroom Council, Lees Summit, MO, hosted more than 40 mushroom industry marketers and executives in San Antonio, TX, in February for the 2025 Mushroom Marketing Summit. Scheduled alongside the council’s board meeting, the summit provided an opportunity for industry... Read more

Church Brothers Farms

Church Brothers Farms, Salinas, CA, announced that, after 15 years of service, Robert Thurber is retiring from its board of directors. In a new chapter of leadership, Emanuel Lazopoulos, a seasoned veteran in the produce industry, will join the board.... Read more

Masser Family of Companies

The Masser Family of Companies (MFC), a grower-packer-processor-shipper of potatoes based in Sacramento, PA, appointed Tiffany Readinger as the new vice president of sales and category management. Readinger will concentrate on expanding market presence, strengthening customer relationships, providing complete category... Read more

Bebo Distributing

Bebo Distributing, Pharr, TX, has hired Paloma Tapia as its new commercial account manager. With extensive experience in the fresh produce industry, Tapia brings expertise in key commodities, including tomatoes, cucumbers, mangos and berries. Tapia joins Bebo Distributing with a... Read more

Produce Distributors Association

The Produce Distributors Association (PDA) has appointed Joseph Procacci III, vice president for business development at Procacci Holdings Company in Philadelphia, as a new member on its board of directors. Procacci replaces Mike Maxwell, who spent many years helping PDA... Read more

Hess Brothers Fruit Company

Hess Brothers Fruit Company, Lancaster, PA, added Karly Shaubach to its sales team. Shaubach brings experience from the nonprofit sector and joins the Hess team as it continues to grow the footprint of its proprietary premium apple, WildTwist. “We are... Read more

California Prunes Enjoy Continued Success in Asia

California-origin prunes are particularly prized by consumers across Asia for their premium taste, versatility and nutritional benefits — attributes that the California Prune Board (CPB) regularly highlights in through-the-line campaigns, targeting both new and existing audiences. The board’s marketing efforts... Read more

Tierra Suelta Ships Florida-Grown Fruit

Tropical fruit grower and importer Tierra Suelta, Miami, FL, announced strong volumes of high-quality, Florida-grown star fruit. Vertically integrated, Tierra Suelta’s cooling and packing facility is adjacent to its farms in Homestead, FL, so fruit goes from the tree to... Read more

Giumarra Launches Co-Branded Thx! Green Kiwifruit Supporting Farmworker Dreams

The Giumarra Companies, Los Angeles, CA, launched its California-grown kiwifruit co-branded with Thx!, an award-winning social impact program. Now available in Nature’s Partner-branded consumer pack clamshells, this collaboration offers shoppers the opportunity to enjoy fresh, green kiwifruit while directly supporting... Read more

California Giant Forecasts Strong Strawberry Volumes

California Giant Berry Farms, Watsonville, CA, forecasts strong volumes of organic and conventionally grown strawberries. Included in this influx is California Giant’s “Fresh From Florida” labeled product. California Giant’s Florida-based growers are on track to deliver peak volumes, spanning from... Read more

Mission Produce Expands Global Sourcing

Mission Produce Inc., Oxnard, CA, has expanded its diversified sourcing strategy to provide a year-round supply of ripe avocados and mangos to the U.K. and European markets. Over the last year, Mission Produce has added more than eight sources to... Read more

South African Stone Fruit Sector Ramps up Innovation

The South African stone fruit industry is accelerating the adoption of new technologies and innovative growing practices to take production to the next level. The industry, led by Hortgro, is driving a wide range of research projects designed to make... Read more

California Avocado Commission Forecasts Healthy Harvest

The 2025 California avocado harvest is now projected to be in the range of 375 million pounds, which is the largest crop estimate for the locally grown fruit since 2020. Recent extremely high winds in California slightly dampened early season... Read more

Procacci Brothers

Procacci Brothers, Philadelphia, PA, announces the retirement of Michael Maxwell, president of Procacci Brothers, after 43 years of dedicated service. Maxwell began his career at Procacci Brothers in 1981, working alongside founder Joseph G. Procacci and current Chief Executive Joseph... Read more

Prophet

Bryan Barsness has been appointed business development director at Prophet, Westlake Village, CA. In his new role, Barsness will drive continued growth and innovation for Prophet ERP’s solutions tailored to the produce and agricultural industries. Barsness graduated with a degree... Read more

Divine Flavor

Nogales, AZ-based produce distributor and grower, Divine Flavor, has added Jeremy Giovannetti to the company’s sales team, overseeing category management for the firm’s melon program. As the melon category manager, his role will be to strengthen the company’s programs out... Read more

Sun World

Sun World International, Bakersfield, CA, announced that its president, Bernardo Calvo, has been named chief executive officer, and David Marguleas has become Sun World’s executive chair. Calvo is now responsible for leading all corporate and operational functions. Before joining Sun... Read more

Ocean Mist Farms

Ocean Mist Farms, Castroville, CA, promoted Glen Alameda into a chief operating officer role. He is the fourth generation to carry the vision of this 100-year-old, industry-leading company. Alameda holds a bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly State University, San Luis... Read more

The Cherry Industry Administrative Board and Cherry Marketing Institute

The Cherry Industry Administrative Board (CIAB) and Cherry Marketing Institute (CMI), Traverse City, MI, have named Amy Cohn as the new industry president. In her new role, Cohn will serve all tart cherry industry members by providing oversight and insight... Read more

Fresh Del Monte Launches First-Ever Newman’s Own Salad Kits

Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc, Coral Gables, FL, through its vegetable division, Mann Packing, Gonzalez, CA, introduced Newman’s Own Salad Kits, the first-ever packaged salad kits from the food brand. This new product line combines Fresh Del Monte’s dedication to... Read more

NJ Department of Agriculture Honors School for Fruit and Vegetable Program

Representatives from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture presented Lord Stirling Community School in New Brunswick, NJ, with the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program VIP Award. The award highlights schools in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Fresh Fruit and... Read more

Multiple EPC Leadership Classes Recognized at New York Produce Show

The sixth Eastern Produce Council (EPC) Leadership Class topped its 2024 educational program with events at the New York Produce Show (NYPS) and Conference in New York City from Dec. 10 to 12.A highlight of this year’s show included the... Read more

California Walnuts Celebrated Holiday Season with Sacramento Ballet and Nugget Market

California Walnuts, Folsom, CA, spread holiday cheer to the Sacramento community with seasonally inspired retail promotions aligned with its annual sponsorship of the 2024 Sacramento Ballet’s Nutcracker. This year, California Walnuts elevated the seasonal effort in partnership with Nugget Market.... Read more

Fresh Express Acquires McEntire Produce

Fresh Express Inc., Salinas, CA, has acquired McEntire Produce Inc., Columbia, SC, a fresh-cut processor, repacker, and wholesaler supplying the foodservice industry since 1938. This transaction will allow the newly formed Foodservice Division of Fresh Express under the McEntire Produce... Read more

Bushwick Commission Donates 18,000+ Pounds of Potatoes to Food Bank

Bushwick Commission, Farmingdale, NY, provided more than 18,000 pounds of potatoes to the Island Harvest Food Bank of Long Island, NY. This year’s contribution brings total potato donations over the years to more than 50,000 pounds. Island Harvest Food Bank... Read more

Sunkist Celebrates Lunar New Year 2025 with Year of the Snake Packaging

Sunkist Growers Inc., Valencia, CA, unveils its newest packaging design to commemorate the Lunar New Year holiday, which begins Jan. 29, marking the Year of the Snake. The specially designed 10-pound cartons hold navel or Cara Cara oranges, while the... Read more

Stemilt Donates to Greater Wenatchee Valley in 2024

Stemilt’s 2024 donations supported over 50 organizations within the Wenatchee Valley in Washington State, totaling $240,000. Earlier in the year, the company reached a milestone donation with the Washington Apple Education Foundation of $1.3 million. Stemilt’s contributions supported organizations, such... Read more

California Table Grape Commission

Susan Day, vice president of international marketing for the California Table Grape Commission and 25-year veteran in table grape export promotion, retired at the end of December. As the vice president of international marketing, Day led both the international promotion... Read more

Index Fresh

Index Fresh, Corona, CA, has added Carlos Duarte to its sales and business development team. Duarte is a Ventura County resident who has been immersed in the world of avocados for over a decade. Most recently, he served as an... Read more

Chestnut Hill Farms

Peter Leifermann joined Chestnut Hill Farms, Coral Gables, FL, and will be leading the company as president and chief operating officer. Leifermann will be working closely with the Chestnut Hill Farms’ leadership team and advisory board, as well as Trond... Read more

Red Sun Farms Expands Distribution Center in Calgary

Red Sun Farms has expanded its distribution center in Calgary, Alberta, strengthening its commitment to better serving customers throughout Western Canada and the West Coast. The new facility features 40,000 square feet of multi-temp rooms, storage and packaging capabilities. It... Read more

Morning Kiss Organic Introduces Five Varieties of Organic Squash and Organic Brussels Sprouts

Morning Kiss Organic, Chelsea, MA, is announcing the availability of five varieties of organic squash and organic Brussels sprouts. The squash offerings include butternut, acorn, spaghetti, buttercup and delicata. Working closely with East Coast suppliers, including local New England farms,... Read more

West Pak Avocado Unveils New Bag Program

West Pak Avocado, Murrieta, CA, is introducing a new series of bagged avocados that showcase three key growing regions: California, Mexico and Colombia. “To guarantee a supply of premium avocados for our customers throughout the year, we remain committed to... Read more

Award-Winning Heirloom Tomato Now Available in the US

NatureSweet, San Antonio, TX, is introducing its award-winning Adora Heirloom Tomato to select stores. This unique tomato redefines the taste, appearance, and texture of tomatoes. Adora is a tomato like no other and has earned the ultimate recognition, the Crystal... Read more

Sunkist Captures Joy of Citrus With New Holiday Promotion

Sunkist Growers Inc., Valencia, CA, is kicking off the 2024 holiday season with a new collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery, bringing together two classics — Sunkist navel oranges and the Christmas movie, The Polar Express. This year, Sunkist introduces a... Read more

Bolthouse Fresh Foods Earns Best Sustainable Packaging Honors

Bolthouse Fresh Foods, Bakersfield, CA, earned the Best Sustainable Packaging Award at the 2024 IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show. The compostable packaging will debut at Meijer with 1- and 2-pound Bolthouse Fresh baby carrots and broaden to organic products... Read more

Bako Sweet Founder Don Valpredo Mourned

Donald (Don) John Valpredo, a lifelong champion of agriculture, businessman, founder and impetus behind Bako Sweet’s entry into the sweet potato business, died Oct. 31, 2024, while on vacation overseas. Valpredo was 85. Valpredo was one of the original farmers... Read more

Westfalia Fruit’s Digital Storytelling Recognized With Two Lovie Awards

Westfalia Fruit has been awarded two Lovie Awards for its innovative Our Story webpage. The company received the Gold Lovie Award in the Websites & Mobile Sites for the Food & Beverage category, as well as the People’s Lovie Award,... Read more

State Garden

State Garden, Chelsea, MA, announced three new strategic hires who will bring new capabilities and expertise to the organization’s rapidly evolving portfolio of brands and offerings, including Olivia’s Organics, Northeast Fresh and more. Tom Thompson joins as chief revenue officer;... Read more

Offshoot Brands

Angie Rowland has been named chief commercial officer at Offshoot Brands, Philadelphia, PA. Rowland joins the leadership team with a distinguished career in the fresh food industry, spanning dairy, produce, and functional beverages, most recently serving as vice president of... Read more

Mission Produce

Mission Produce Inc., Oxnard, CA, appointed Brooke Becker senior vice president of sales. In her new position, Becker will lead Mission Produce’s North America Sales team in meeting demand for avocados and mangos. Becker has been a significant contributor to... Read more

Misionero

Misionero, Gonzales, CA, has named Brandi Smith as corporate controller. With over two decades of experience in accounting, finance and business management, Smith brings a wealth of expertise in supporting complex agricultural organizations and driving financial insights that fuel business... Read more

Fresh Farms

Fresh Farms, Rio Rico, AZ, welcomed Josh Acuña to its sales team. Acuña is eager to build strong relationships with both existing and new retailers, with plans to refresh their knowledge of table grapes. Acuña also envisions enhancing the grape... Read more

Giumarra Companies, Capital City Fruit Team Up to Bring Lemonade Apples Via Online Delivery

Just in time for the 2024-25 domestic apple season, the Giumarra Companies, Los Angeles, CA, announces a joint initiative with Capital City Fruit, Norwalk, IA, to offer nationwide online delivery of its exclusive Lemonade apples. Consumers are able to purchase... Read more

Gem-Pack Berries Unveils New Website

Gem-Pack Berries, Watsonville, CA, launched a new website. The redesigned site, developed in collaboration with Dystrick, features a new design with improved navigation and enhanced functionality, making it easier for users to access information about Gem-Pack Berries’ products, services and... Read more

Minnesota Grocers Association Recognizes Winners

The Minnesota Grocers Association (MGA), St. Paul, MN, named Kris Kowalski Christiansen of Kowalski’s Companies, Inc., its 2024 Outstanding Grocer.Michael Koehler, director of retail strategic regional accounts of Blue Bunny/Wells Enterprises, received the MGA’s 2024 Outstanding Vendor Award.Jamie Pfuhl, president... Read more

Avocados From Mexico Celebrates National Avocado Day

In partnership with The GIANT Company and Philabundance, Avocados From Mexico, Dallas, TX, donated 60,000 avocados for the fourth annual Top Guac Challenge, benefiting those experiencing food insecurity in the Philadelphia, PA, area.Out of eight contestants, the team consisting of... Read more

Ratto Bros.

Ratto Bros., Modesto, CA, named Geoffrey Ratto as the company’s new chief executive officer. A fourth-generation member of the Ratto family, Ratto brings 15 years of industry experience to his new role. He succeeds Robert Engel, who stepped down earlier... Read more

Natural Delights

Natural Delights, Yuma, AZ, promoted David Baxter to vice president of sales and marketing. Baxter has been an integral part of the Natural Delights team for the past six years.Baxter’s journey with Natural Delights began as a product manager. His... Read more

Ippolito International

Ippolito International, Salinas, CA, announced two additions to its organization, Joseph Mallobox and Bob Polovneff.Mallobox has joined Ippolito International after working in the human resources arena for over 20 years. Most recently, his experience includes employment regulations, recruitment, and staff... Read more

Edible Brands Launches Fresh Fruit Subscription Delivery Service

Edible Brands, Atlanta, GA, the parent company of Edible (formerly Edible Arrangements), announced the launch of its latest endeavor: freshfruit.com. The new e-commerce brand boasts a subscription business model, giving consumers premium whole fruits hand-delivered directly to their doorstep.Launching with... Read more

Duda Farm Fresh Foods Announces Foodservice Celery Dippers

Duda Farm Fresh Foods, Oviedo, FL, announces its newest product, Dandy Celery Dippers, now available for foodservice.Last fall, Duda launched celery dippers to retail audiences and saw the opportunity to bring the 2-inch fresh-cut celery sticks to foodservice operators seeking... Read more

Inline Plastics Launches Safe-T-Fresh 7-inch Rounds

Inline Plastic, Shelton, CT, has new 20-ounce, three-compartment packaging, the TS7020C3. The lids prevent food items from mingling with the anti-migration design.The second addition is the 46-ounce option, TS7046. Designed with signature Safe-T-Fresh technology, each package features tamper evident and... Read more

Michigan Asparagus Wraps Up Successful Season

The Michigan Asparagus season concluded one week earlier than usual, with ample volume available for summer festivities. To drive sales, the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board (MAAB), Dewitt, MI, enacted marketing strategies, including retail promotions, influencer marketing and digital campaigns that... Read more

C.H. Robinson Launches Digital Dispatch

Global logistics company C.H. Robinson announced a major efficiency for carriers through the launch of Digital Dispatch, its enhanced load matching platform. Utilizing a new algorithm powered by data science and artificial intelligence (AI), Digital Dispatch analyzes a broad range... Read more

Dole Marks the 40th Year of Whip

First, there was Dole’s sponsorship of Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room at Disneyland in 1976, which led to a similar arrangement at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World several years later. After serving just Dole Pineapple juice and fresh-cut... Read more

Del Monte Precious Honeyglow Pineapple Wins Innovation of the Year

Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., Coral Gables, FL, recently won “Overall Food Innovation of the Year” in the 2024 Mindful Awards, for the company’s new Del Monte Precious Honeyglow, an innovative personal-size fresh pineapple that weighs less than 2 pounds... Read more

Texas Onion Industry Highlights Season Wins

The Texas International Produce Association, Mission, TX, announces the TX1015 Sweet Onion season was successful. Innovative marketing activities, such as an online social influencer program, sweepstakes, restaurant week promotion, and KSAT TV partnership, drew a larger audience, empowering people to... Read more

National Mango Board Scores Sweet Partnership with University of Mississippi Athletics

The National Mango Board, Orlando, FL, is partnering with the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) Athletics. Building on their initial collaboration, the National Mango Board will now sponsor all Ole Miss football and basketball home games for the 2024-2025 season.... Read more

Sun World Acquires Biogold

Sun World International LLC, Bakersfield, CA, has acquired Biogold Group, a South Africa-based global fruit variety rights manager, trading as Citrogold in South Africa. Biogold is recognized as the preeminent global supplier of citrus genetics.In addition to its mango breeding... Read more

Bako Sweet Emphasizes Summer Offerings at Retail

This summer, Bako Sweet, Bakersfield, CA, introduced its grilling merchandising bins, perfect for highlighting the versatility of sweet potatoes in grilling recipes. These bins are available through Labor Day, providing retailers with an eye-catching, seasonal display that encourages consumers to... Read more

American Sweet Potato Marketing Institute

Johnny Barnes, president of the American Sweet Potato Marketing Institute (ASPMI), Benson, NC, announced Jeff Smutny has joined ASPMI as executive director.Prior to joining the sweet potato industry, Smutny served as the global director of marketing and regulatory affairs for... Read more