As part of its continued commitment to growth, sustainability and excellence, Pete Pappas & Sons has kicked off 2025 with a series of strategic hires and promotions designed to enhance operations, strengthen customer relationships and ensure ongoing success.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture alleged that VIP Marketing Inc. failed to make full payment promptly in the total amount of $408,983 to three sellers for multiple lots of produce in violation of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. After the complaint was filed, USDA and VIP Marketing Inc. entered into a Consent Decision and Order wherein VIP Marketing Inc. agreed to pay the unpaid produce sellers and to pay a civil penalty in the amount of $40,000.

In partnership with Kroger, Foodshed.io has worked to launch the Georgia Sunnies citrus brand.

The Canadian Produce Marketing Association’s annual trade show is Canada’s largest event dedicated to the fresh fruit and vegetable industry. This year’s show marks CPMA’s 100th anniversary and will take place April 8-10 at the Palais des Congrès in Montreal, featuring 690 booths representing more than 300 companies from around the world, including major growers, importers and exporters.

In Bloom, Texas International Produce Association’s Women in Produce, announced its first annual awards program celebrating women in the produce industry. The awards will be presented at the inaugural ceremony, In Bloom: TIPA Women Honoring Their Own on Feb. 27 in McAllen, TX.

Nominations are now open for two prestigious awards, in addition to a posthumous award that has already been selected by the committee:

Oppy Chairman, CEO and Managing Partner John Anderson will receive the prestigious International Humanitarian Ellis Island Medal of Honor in May. The award celebrates the legacy of immigrants and recognizes those who have made significant contributions to society.

Anderson is being recognized for his exemplary leadership at Oppy and within the fresh produce industry, where he has long supported and advanced global trade, sustainability and innovation.