When people hear about the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference they often assume it is a career development event for women. Yes, it is that, but reducing it to an individual leadership conference misses the bigger truth: this gathering is about strengthening the entire produce and floral industry.

Larry Lipman, former CEO and longtime board chairman of Lipman Family Farms, died Sunday, March 22. 

Mr. Lipman, affectionately known by employees as Uncle Larry, was a revolutionary in the tomato industry. Over more than five decades at Lipman Family Farms, he helped to grow the company from a regional tomato grower to a North American leader in tomato and vegetable production and packing. 

The 2026 California cherry season is shaping up to offer an early and potentially strong start. Stemilt Growers expressed optimism about the timing, volume and quality of this season’s fruit. While harvest potential is still developing, the indication points to a crop that slightly surpasses last year, due to favorable weather and strong bloom conditions.

California Dates created memorable moments throughout Palm Desert Food & Wine 2026, beginning with an immersive farm tour on March 19 that brought media and guests into the heart of date country.

The 2026 Vidalia onion season is set to start on the official pack date of April 13, and Shuman Farms expects to have favorable quality and availability of both conventional and organic Vidalias, with onions expected to ship through Labor Day. 

Whole Foods Market announced the recipients of its 14th annual Supplier All-Star Awards, recognizing outstanding supplier partners whose products, innovation and collaboration helped shape the retailer’s assortment over the past year. Among this year's honorees is Oppy.  

Hand-selected by Whole Foods Market category experts, sourcing leaders and foragers, the awards honor suppliers that delivered standout performances in 2025 across key areas including product excellence, creativity, operational reliability and collaboration.