The California Avocado Commission board of directors has promoted Ken Melban to be the organization’s president. Melban joined the commission in 2011 as director, issues management. In 2015 he was promoted to vice president, industry affairs and has served as vice president of industry affairs and operations, as well as co-executive leader of the organization since late 2023.

Watermelons, cantaloupes and honeydews are the dominant melons in demand by consumers. Other melon varieties add to the line and help make up an attractive display for customers to choose in the produce department.

The imported melons are finished and are transitioning to the new crop of cantaloupes and honeydews out of California, Arizona. Florida, Texas and Mexico.

Russo Farms is a trusted grower, buyer and shipper of fresh produce with more than 100 years of history. It also owns and operates trucks for delivery, and ships via direct grower relationships in New Jersey.

The Southeast Produce Council has unfurled the banner of triumph, heralding a noble assembly of orators for forthcoming Southern Innovations, Sept. 10-13, to be held at the Charlotte Convention Center in the Queen City. The annual trade show and conference will showcase the latest breakthroughs in the realm of fresh produce — spanning organics, groundbreaking product developments, forward-thinking technologies and pioneering brand strategies.

In 2025-26, the American Floral Endowment is funding 12 research projects for a total of $636,525. The four new projects and eight continuing projects focus on topics such as pest management, disease control, post-production and technology in floriculture.

Pure Flavor dazzled at this year’s Leamington Greenhouse Competition, taking home multiple top honors in a field of over 190 entries from leading North American producers.

Known for its premium, greenhouse-grown fruits and vegetables — including the award-winning Red Royals and Tiki tomatoes — Pure Flavor wowed judges and consumers alike with its flavor-forward innovations.

The company claimed an impressive list of accolades: