Last week IFPA Foodservice Conference attendees enjoyed temperate Monterey, CA, where they had an opportunity to network at a bevy of events beyond the conference, opening reception and expo. From IFPA's Women's Fresh Perspectives Happy Hour and the Fresh Avenue Mixer to the Church Bros. Ranch Party and Tanimura & Antle's Laguna Seca Raceway Cocktail Reception, the opportunity to connect with friends and colleagues was ever-present.

The Kroger Co. opened a new spoke in Independence, KY. This facility opening means customers can tap into Kroger's fresh items, unique Our Brands products and national brands, as well as individualized offers — all delivered directly to their door.  

With a relatively new management team now firmly in place, Canada-based Highline Mushrooms is intent on being the No. 1 mushroom brand in the region with regard to growing practices, products and packaging.

“We want to be known for our innovation and quality and our sustainability efforts and be the top brand in North America,” said Jose Cambon, who was appointed as the new chief executive officer late last year after having been in the fresh mushroom business in Australia for a dozen years. “Our ownership structure is very supportive of these goals.”

The Southeast Produce Council named Hudson Mcgehee, son of Genuine Georgia's Will Mcgehee, as this year's SEPC Nolan Family Foundation Scholarship recipient.

Over 100 participants from 11 different countries traveled to Stoke by Nyland near Colchester, United Kingdom, to attend the 52nd Fleuroselect Convention from July 3 - 6. The convention is the key annual event for members to spend time networking with industry friends and colleagues as well as visiting member facilities, plant trials and local horticultural highlights.

Syngenta Flowers Senior Breeder Todd Perkins received the 2023 Medal of Excellence Industry Achievement Award. The Industry Achievement Award recognizes the lifetime accomplishments of individuals and organizations that have devoted their life’s work to the mission of advancing plant varieties and the floriculture industry.