When it comes to knowing what works in the produce industry, Patrick Mills has been there, done that — and then some. The retail promotion director-West/Canada for the Idaho Potato Commission relies on his 38 years of experience in retail produce to offer an array of strategic solutions for whatever kinds of challenges his retail customers are facing.

Monthly online grocery sales accelerated dramatically in December, with total sales surging 32 percent year-over-year to finish the month with a record high $12.7 billion, according to the latest Brick Meets Click Grocery Shopper Survey. This robust performance reflects higher order frequency, spending rates and a larger user base than December 2024.  

Paulson Puerto Rico has announced a major transformation of its organizational structure, appointing Rafael Cedeño Paulson and Rolando Padua as its new co-CEOs. This strategic move coincides with the firm’s plan to invest over $1 billion in various projects across the island over the coming years.

Matt Zapczynski believes membership in industry organizations has its privileges, especially when you’re looking to create strong relationships with other potato pros. A year and a half into his position as Northeast/Midwest retail promotion director for the Idaho Potato Commission, Zapczynski said he sees firsthand the value that his broad industry involvement brings to both his customers and the IPC team.

The U.S. Apple Association forecast the overall 2025-2026 U.S. apple crop at 278.5 million 42-pound bushel boxes, up slightly from the previous season’s 260 million and 3.6 percent higher than the five-year production average.

The association forecast New York to harvest 30.5 million boxes and in range of the state’s 32.6 million average, Michigan to come in around 30 million boxes and Washington to harvest 180 million boxes, up slightly from its 2024-25 figures. So far, these numbers seem to be on track. 

Chef, entrepreneur Emmy Award-winning executive producer and television personality Matty Matheson will be the lead spokesperson for the Mushroom Council’s 2026 consumer campaign, It’s Not Magic. It’s Mushrooms. Known for his boisterous style and refreshingly practical approach to cooking, Matheson brings credibility with Gen Z and Millennial audiences that want food that’s easy to make, tastes great and delivers more in every bite.