The Washington State Tree Fruit Association is forecasting a record-matching 2025 Washington fresh apple crop of 142-million 40-pound boxes, with Cosmic Crisp breaking into the top five varietals.

Whether the entire crop will be harvested, however, is unknown, with growers pointing to the possibility of labor shortages and market conditions driving the number down, according to the WSTFA.

Stemilt Growers, Wenatchee, WA, continues to evolve its apple variety mix to ensure it is growing varieties that consumers seek.

While potato harvest has been happening since July in some parts of the country, Side Delights’ freshest potatoes are now arriving in stores as the fall season’s grilling heats up.

The Society of American Florists has recognized Sahid Nahim, founder of New Bloom Solutions and New Bloom Media, with the Rising Star Award at its annual convention.

Grocery Outlet Holding Corp. announced the appointment of Frank Kerr to executive vice president, chief store operations officer, effective Sept. 15.

Changing consumer demands are driving strong growth for specialty products in both retail and foodservice — but for slightly different reasons.

Matt Hiltner, marketing manager for Santa Maria, CA-based Babé Farms, said shoppers are increasingly seeking variety, visual appeal and premium experiences at home. That benefits specialty produce like colorful root vegetables, kohlrabi, Romanesco and more.