The Society of American Florists has recognized Sahid Nahim, founder of New Bloom Solutions and New Bloom Media, with the Rising Star Award at its annual convention.

Grocery Outlet Holding Corp. announced the appointment of Frank Kerr to executive vice president, chief store operations officer, effective Sept. 15.

Changing consumer demands are driving strong growth for specialty products in both retail and foodservice — but for slightly different reasons.

Matt Hiltner, marketing manager for Santa Maria, CA-based Babé Farms, said shoppers are increasingly seeking variety, visual appeal and premium experiences at home. That benefits specialty produce like colorful root vegetables, kohlrabi, Romanesco and more.

Washington’s abundance of leading apple varieties allows retailers to maintain strong promotions throughout the year, with back-to-school, fall and holiday-themed programs kicking off opportunities to generate sales.

Some people love to network. Others find it awkward or even exhausting. No matter which type of produce industry pro you are, the Southwest International Produce Expo is designed to be a refreshing place to connect and conduct business. The event, better known as SWIPE, is redefining how trade show business gets done — by making it easy, laid-back and, most of all, fun. 

Ahold Delhaize has expanded its partnership with Instacart to leverage its FoodStorm order management system. The technology will enable participating Ahold Delhaize USA brands to elevate customers’ shopping experience when requesting made-to-order items such as floral arrangements, fresh bakery platters, customizable deli meat and cheese trays, dessert flights and balloons. The FoodStorm solution is now live at Food Lion, Giant and Martin’s, operated by The Giant Co.