MEMPHIS, TN -- International Paper and West Pak Avocado Inc. have teamed to produce an innovative box design that is a win-win for both companies. West Pak Avocado wanted to redesign its box and brand, and it looked to International Paper to help create a new box that would stand above the rest.

"Our goal was to provide our customer with a new box style that was stronger and more efficient than current packaging, while also meeting the needs of the marketplace in terms of visual appeal and handling," said Ed Arriaga, International Paper field sales manager.

Highline Mushrooms, one of the larger Canadian mushroom growers, announced the launch of two new stuffed portabella mushrooms -- Rustic Mediterranean and Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato -- both of which are available to retailers in a 8.6-ounce (245-gram) pack.

Retail operators Winn-Dixie Stores Inc., based in Jacksonville, FL, and BI-LO, based in Greenville, SC, announced Dec. 20 that they will merge operations to create an organization of approximately 690 grocery stores and 63,000 employees in eight states throughout the southeastern United States.

The harvest season is underway at McAllen, TX-based Val Verde Vegetable Co., but greens aren't all that's fresh. Val Verde recently launched a new corporate identity, expanded product lines and made equipment upgrades, according to a Dec. 19 press release.