Zespri has released its November forecast for the 2024-25 season with forecast returns up across almost all categories from the last forecast in August.

At a per tray level, forecast Orchard Gate Returns have increased for all categories other than RubyRed, while forecast per hectare returns are now at record levels for Green and Organic Green on the back of improved yields while maintaining strong value in the market. Forecast per hectare returns for SunGold are also up from August and remain steady for Green14 and RubyRed.

Healthy Family Project’s annual Fall Produce for Kids cause marketing campaign with Publix took place Sept. 26 through Nov. 4 in the produce departments of all Publix stores. Seventeen produce companies provided 825,000 meals to the 37 Feeding America partner food banks in the Publix market area.

Naturipe Farms promoted Jim Roberts to president, effective immediately. The board of directors unanimously chose Roberts to lead during a time of expansion and strategic developments. Formerly serving as Naturipe’s president of sales, he brings over two decades of experience to the role.

Roberts is a proven business leader with an unmatched understanding of the industry. During his tenure with Naturipe Farms, he has been instrumental in driving sales, shaping sales and marketing strategies, and enhancing the company’s position as a leader in the fresh produce industry.

Doug Stalbaum has been promoted to vice president of finance for Publix, effective Jan. 1.  

Stalbaum, 45, joined the company in 2019 as director of business analysis and reporting, and was promoted to his current role, vice president and controller, in 2022. Prior to joining Publix, he was a senior audit manager at an accounting firm for eight years, senior director and controller at a restaurant chain for six years and director of finance at a furniture retailer for three years.

JJB Family Farms, based in Stockton, CA, puts a high value on technology.

It has installed Eqraft bin handling systems in recent years and there are plans to add automatic bin tippers to ensure a smooth flow of onions throughout its packinghouse.

Patrick Criteser is joining Nature Fresh Farms' executive team as CEO to lead its rapid expansion.