Starr Ranch Growers named Don Odegard as its new CEO. He brings a wealth of experience and a visionary leadership approach to the company.

With an impressive track record in the agribusiness sector, Odegard is set to steer Starr Ranch Growers toward new heights of success and growth.

Dollar General promoted Rod West to executive vice president of global supply chain. West will lead the company’s distribution center operations, transportation, supply chain modernization and its private fleet. West most recently served as DG’s senior vice president of distribution.

Veteran grape salesman Jared Lane, who is the co-owner of Delano, CA-based Grapeco Farms LLC, admits it was a big decision to start his own company with partner Robert Caneda earlier this year.

But it wasn’t as gut wrenching as one might think. “We had the opportunity to go out and start our own company,” he said without trepidation. “I figured I’d try it and if it didn’t work out, I could always go work for somebody else.”

As the new crop apple season dawns upon us, there is cause for excitement in the apple industry. Washington state reports a remarkable 29 percent increase in its apple crop. This surge in production can be attributed to the favorable spring conditions that have nurtured a bountiful yield of clean and high-quality fruit.

After many years of successful partnership, Starr Ranch Growers and Gilbert Orchards will be parting ways in 2024.  Regardless of this change coming in the new year, the two family-owned businesses will continue to work together to ensure an orderly transition and continued excellent quality of service and supply to customers.

The 76th Quebec Produce Marketing Association convention was held from Aug.