IFPA CEO Cathy Burns said the produce and floral communities are facing challenges and transformation from all fronts. “We’ll be exploring new developments in – and implications of – technology sustainability workforce dynamics and more during next month’s State of the Industry keynote at the annual IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show Oct. 17-19 in Atlanta,” she said.

Wonderful Pistachios unveiled a limited-edition seasonal No Shells flavor: Sweet Cinnamon. This holiday exclusive is a blend of sweet spice and everything nice. The pistachios taste like a healthy, guilt-free cinnamon roll with a welcomed crunchy twist.

Sam’s Club unveiled a reimagined approach to its workforce compensation, announcing a new plan that it says accelerates pay for nearly 100,000 frontline associates and provides a roadmap for them to plan and pursue more predictable, longer-term financial futures. The new plan creates opportunities for associates to build better careers and lives with Sam’s Club.

Dümmen Orange North America recently promoted Tim Clark to national sales manager in the United States and hired Sarah Thompson to become its new western regional sales manager and Michelle McElhannon, Ph.D. to be its new technical specialist.

Square 1 Farms continues to increase its asparagus volume from Peru as the company expands its footprint in that commodity sector.

“We have seen a nice increase in total volume for 2024,” said Tim Ryan Jr., vice president of sales at SQ1. “Peru will always play a major role in our business as we are situated in south Florida, but we also recognize the need to diversify our supply with partners in Mexico, as well as domestically, when available.

As one of the leading importers of asparagus, Southern Specialties continues to add volume and distribution facilities.

“We continue to expand our asparagus programs, offering year round supplies from major growing areas,” said Carlos Solf, vice president of procurement for the Pompano Beach, FL-based company. “We ship from Pompano Beach (FL), McAllen (TX), Arizona and Michigan depending on seasonality. Asparagus is offered in a variety of presentations, as part of our Southern Selects value-added lineup of specialty products.”