It was a blow to Dover, DE-based Papen Farms when Richard Papen suddenly died in the spring of 2022, but the family-run company has continued to move forward, and is expecting an excellent 2023 vegetable season to start by mid-June.

The Fresh Produce & Floral Council held its June Membership Luncheon at the Castlewood Country Club in Pleasanton, CA. This luncheon hosted Master of Ceremonies Katie Gagnon of Grocery Outlet and guest speaker Keena Turner of the 49ers.

It was four years ago when Fru-Veg Marketing first partnered with Berry Bros. allowing the company to expand its blueberry program to include domestic blueberries to customers from farm-to-table. It also created a 12-month, year-round supply of fresh blueberries.

With one month to go, Organic Produce Summit 2023 is on track to be the largest in the event’s history and will include several new additions to a robust two-day gathering celebrating the world of organic fresh produce.

California avocado season generally runs from spring through summer, making June a perfect time to celebrate California Avocado Month. The California Avocado Commission is using an integrated support plan including public relations outreach, retail promotions, foodservice chain programs, social media and more to market this year’s celebration.

Michael Muzyk, longtime president of Baldor Specialty Foods and an icon in the food distribution industry, will retire at the end of 2023.