The Southeast Produce Council is introducing The Unseen Hero Award, a special recognition honoring the individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the produce industry moving forward. Whether in growing, shipping, packing, retail or foodservice, these unsung heroes make a lasting impact without seeking the spotlight.

GLC Cerritos, a Mexican avocado company with a U.S.-based sales operation in Oxnard, CA, just completed its first full year in the Fairtrade campaign registering sales in excess of 2 million pounds.

On Thursday, March 6 the Southern Flavor Cocktail Party brought together Georgia’s growers, shippers, packers and logistics professionals to host an unforgettable evening of delicious bites, refreshing drinks and lively entertainment. Guests were treated to a high-energy dueling pianos performance while enjoying a relaxed, festive atmosphere for mingling and networking.

Meijer will open three new supercenters in northeast Ohio on May 8, increasing the retailer's store count to 58 in the state. The new 159,000-square-foot supercenters are located in Austintown, Medina and Richmond Heights.

It was a decade ago that the Texas International Produce Association launched the Viva Fresh Expo as a regional produce show dedicated to celebrating the vital role of the Tex-Mex corridor as a key trade route and production hub for fresh produce.

“It was a game changer for the association and the industry,” said TIPA President and CEO Dante Galeazzi, who was on the founding committee as an industry member.

Bolthouse Fresh Foods has been named one of Fast Company’s 2025 Most Innovative Companies, earning a top-10 ranking. This recognition highlights the company’s commitment to transforming the fresh produce industry through disruptive packaging, product innovation and digital engagement — all while staying rooted in its 110-year legacy of quality and sustainability. Well-positioned for the next generation of consumers, Bolthouse Fresh Foods is reimagining how fresh produce and carrot products are grown, packaged, delivered and marketed to meet evolving consumer needs.