Stellar Distributing Inc. anticipates beginning its California kiwifruit harvest around Oct. 3 with an ending date in early November.

The company, headquartered in Madera, CA, provides its customers with a mix of fruit that includes kiwi, limes, grapes, figs, pomegranates, persimmons and chestnuts.

As with many commodities, the California kiwifruit season is running early this year. But Chris Kragie, deciduous fruit manager at Western Fresh Marketing in Madera, CA, is of the opinion that some shippers are pushing to get the fruit off the vines and in the market before it is really ready.

More than 40 retailers — representing more than 19,000 stores across the United States and Canada — support the ‘eat brighter!’ movement, and the fresh produce marketing initiative is growing both in support and offerings.

Jose Rossignoli, category general manager at Robinson Fresh, said future trends for mango movement at retail can be anticipated based upon current trends in the foodservice sector.

This fall BI-LO, Harveys and Winn-Dixie grocery stores have joined Katie’s Krops to inspire parents and children to lead healthier lifestyles by eating more fresh produce. From Sept. 10 to Oct.

Moxxy Marketing, based in Salinas, CA, announced the hire of Molly Briseño as director of client services on Sept. 16.