Albertsons launched its third annual Albertsons Companies Innovation Launchpad competition in search of emerging and innovative brands representing food, beverage and pet products. Independent food brands between $3 million and $10 million in net retail sales are encouraged to apply for the opportunity to compete live at the Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, CA, on March 4.

Brighter Bites has partnered with Act Bar, a pioneering brand in the better-for-you protein bar market, dedicated to redefining snacking through sustainability and social responsibility.

Fresh Solutions Network LLC Side Delights Amazables! recently won the Joe Nucci Award for product innovation.

FSN’s winning product, Side Delights Amazables!, are gluten-free microwavable potatoes available with two sauces created to complement the taste of a Russet potato and leverage top foodservice flavors.

Patrick Mills jumped into action last January as retail promotion director-West/Canada for the Idaho Potato Commission, eager to share his 37 years of retail produce experience with stores throughout the region. A year later, the industry veteran said he loves being able to focus in on one of the most rewarding parts of his job: building relationships.

The trustee in bankruptcy of DecoNova Young Plants B.V. at Roelofarendsveen and Nieuwveen has concluded an agreement with Straathof Plants B.V. An urgent takeover was necessary to preserve the quality of the plant material, and to secure the future delivery of orders to customers.

Inclement weather conditions from past storms heavily damaged the tomato crops in Florida, reducing supplies. That along with a decreased amount out of California and Mexico created a supply-and-demand imbalance. But now the supplies have started to improve along with lower market pricing.