"Research shows that consumers are looking for convenience in their shopping trips," said Brad Cook, marketing manager for Duda Farm Fresh Foods Inc., headquartered in Oviedo, FL. "Merchandising can help provide that convenience by positioning celery product options adjacent to one another. Whole celery, hearts, sticks, straws and branches located in the same display space make it easy for consumers to find and make selections."

Scott Salyer, chief executive officer of international food processor SK Foods, has become the sole owner of Salinas, CA-based Salyer American Fresh Foods Inc., a company established 20 years ago by Mr. Salyer and his family.

As one of the larger fresh produce suppliers to corporate and retail customers nationwide, Salyer American Fresh Foods will become a division of SK Foods based in California in Monterey and the Central Valley.

Note to Webster's Collegiate Dictionary: When you add "multi-multi- tasking" to your list of definitions, the appropriate photo to run adjacent is that of Hannah Taylor.

Maui Pineapple Co. Ltd. a wholly owned subsidiary of Maui Land & Pineapple Co. Inc. in Kahului, HI, has hired Tom Hall as its new regional sales manager.

Mr. Hall will be responsible for expanding sales, implementing brand initiatives and supporting corporate objectives of both Maui Pineapple Co. and Maui Land & Pineapple Co. in Northern California, the Pacific Northwest and other select markets on the West Coast.

Irwindale, CA-based Ready Pac Foods Inc., a premier producer of convenience fresh foods including fresh-cut produce, has hired several senior sales professionals and has announced a reorganization.

Ellis Fleisher Produce Co., long a leader on the Philadelphia Regional Produce Market, has closed its doors. As of April 24, the firm had not filed for bankruptcy protection and was working with suppliers to meet its obligations.

Another Philadelphia wholesaler who is intimately involved with the situation told The Produce News April 24, "Discovery is still going on and it's too early for anyone on this market to comment." He noted that any public discussion of the situation at the discovery stage could only make matters worse for creditors.