Detroit’s food scene has exploded, and people are moving to the area for the city experience at a more affordable price.

Allegiance Retail Services has expanded its partnership with Instacart. The expansion includes the introduction of Instacart’s Caper Carts at select Foodtown stores, alongside new omnichannel capabilities designed to unify Allegiance’s digital, loyalty and in-store experiences.

Sakata Seed America has promoted Justin Davis to chief operating officer, vegetables, effective Feb. 1.

Family Tree Farms promoted Brenton Helm to vice president of sales operations, effective Jan. 1.

Samantha Ayoub will join the International Fresh Produce Association as director of workforce and business policy on the U.S. Government Relations team effective Feb. 23.

Ayoub brings extensive expertise in agricultural economics, workforce and labor policy, and business operations affecting the food and agriculture sector. She most recently served as environment, labor and taxes economist at the American Farm Bureau Federation and previously held roles with U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service and in plant pathology research.

Coming off last week’s update, the Valentine’s Day pull is now clearly under way in berries. Demand is building across both retail and foodservice, and while supply is improving in some regions, it remains limited. Get your berry orders in now!