“We continue to see increased demand in our organics line, and we are maintaining steady growth overall,” Gurdeep Billan, director of sales for Double D Farms in Fresno, CA, told The Produce News. “This is great time in produce history to be in the organics business.”

Double D Farms’ programs have not changed in recent times, but Mr. Billan noted that the company continues to increase its acreage in its availability window.

Giorgio Fresh Co.’s sales of organic mushrooms have not been affected by the current economy, and the company is continuing to reduce its use of non-organic pest-control methods.

The Temple, PA-based firm is a leading and fully integrated mushroom grower, packer and shipper of organic mushrooms. The company was certified organic in March 2004 by Pennsylvania Certified Organic, commonly referred to as PCO.

The United Fresh Produce Association announced its line-up of headline speakers for United Fresh 2012, which will be held May 1-3 in Dallas. Former First Lady Laura Bush will deliver remarks on her life experiences, sharing perspectives learned from eight years in the White House and beyond, a United Fresh press release stated.

Don Harris

Naturipe Farms announced that Don Harris resigned his position as director of category development to launch his own consul

Peri & Sons Farms, headquartered in Yerington, NV, has announced the recent addition of produce industry veteran Cindy Elrod to its Nevada sales team.

The DJ Forry Co., based in Reedley, CA, announced RAY ENGLAND as its new vice president of marketing. Mr. England will work with the company management to develop go-to-market strategies geared to expand and enhance long-term strategic partnerships with the retail sector.

“I’ve known Ray for close to a decade, and I believe that Ray’s retail experience and reputation in the produce industry as a thoughtful and honest individual will add significant value to our company. I look forward to the future working with Ray,” said John Forry, principal at DJ Forry Co.