Michael Maxwell, president of Procacci Bros., is retiring after an extraordinary 43 years of dedicated service. A true pillar of the Procacci family of companies, Maxwell’s impact is immeasurable.

With a new year comes a bit of trepidation for retailers, especially this year. Consumers are prepared to tighten their belts — and their wallets — when it comes to spending. So, what does that mean for the long-term success for retailers?

According to Coresight Research, a research and advisory firm specializing in retail and technology, U.S. store closures totaled 7,325 in 2024. The firm expects that to increase in 2025 to approximately 15,000. Store openings totaled 5,970 in 2024 and are expected to be similar this year.

Salix Fruits made its debut in the U.S. citrus market in 2015, starting with imports of lemons from Argentina. Established by Juan González Pita and Luis Elortondo, the company boasts over a century of combined experience in the fresh fruit industry. While Salix offers a diverse portfolio of 25 fruit varieties, it primarily concentrates on ensuring a reliable supply of imported citrus in the U.S. market.

Michael Eugene (Mike) Alise, a cherished figure in the Gulf Coast community and a leader in the produce and logistics industries, died Jan. 7 at Lighthouse Memory Care in Ocean Springs, MS. He was 65.

With winter hosting and game day celebrations in full swing, Uber Eats and Wegmans Food Markets partnered to bring the beloved supermarket's products directly to customers' doors starting this month.

BrightFarms launched a campaign with Instacart to deliver free salad kits following Quitters Day, the second Friday in January, which is when most people abandon their New Year's resolutions. To keep the spirit of healthful resolutions alive longer, BrightFarms and Instacart will be offering free Crunch Kits before the month ends.

Consumers can head to the Instacart website or app to redeem this offer with their Instacart order and select an eligible Crunch Kit of their choosing while supplies last.