Matt Steve Pandol Jr. died unexpectedly at his home in Delano, CA, on April 21. He was 60.

Mr. Pandol was born June 27, 1962, to Matt and Lucy (Tudor) Pandol. Upon completing his high school education in Delano in 1980, Mr. Pandol attended Fresno State University, graduating with a degree in plant science. Following college he returned to Delano to work alongside his family in their farming/produce marketing businesses in Delano.

Hannaford Supermarkets is launching a new initiative to amplify its sustainability commitment across the Northeast of the United States. The new brand identity, called Planet Hannaford, positions the retailer’s sustainability efforts under one, customer-facing banner that both informs and empowers customers to make eco-friendly choices.  

The Texas International Produce Association is busy promoting Texas 1015 Sweet Onions thanks to a USDA-AMS Specialty Crop Block Grant administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture. The grant will fund another record-breaking marketing program this spring focusing on increasing brand awareness and sales of the TX1015 Sweet Onion, aimed at both retailers and consumers.

A few years ago, Scott Hart took over as head of Moultrie GA-based Producers Marketing, and started implementing changes to ensure the company was ahead of the curve and poised for the future. His actions have undoubtedly led to success, with improvements and growth to the packingshed and overall operations.

Rick McCranie, marketing manager for Producers Marketing, came on board in 2022 and has also been instrumental in the company’s growth.

Committing to a promise of service and selection 20 years ago, Oppy celebrated one of its most monumental milestones in Toronto while at CPMA — the inception of its tagline: Expect the world from us.

Stew Leonard Sr. 1929-2023

Stew Leonard Sr., the founder of food retailer Stew Leonard’s, died April 26 at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York after a brief illness. He was 93.