The BelleHarvest sales team reported extensive yield, consistent sizes, and expanded opportunity for this year’s Michigan apples. “We are forecasting a tremendous crop here in Michigan,” said Milt Fuehrer, chief executive officer at BelleHarvest. The Belding, MI-based company estimated total volume is up roughly 80 percent over last year. 

“Quality and supply of this season is meeting our high expectations and we are looking forward to building out robust programs with customers,” Fuehrer said. 

Brighter Bites, a national nonprofit that delivers fresh fruits and vegetables directly into families’ hands, launched its 10th location in San Antonio, TX. This semester, Brighter Bites will serve six schools within Harlandale ISD, which will directly impact around 720 families and provide 115,200 pounds of fresh produce to its participants.

After more than 47 years with Publix Super Markets, Charlotte Division Vice President Chuck Roskovich will retire March 31. With Roskovich’s retirement, Joey Riddle has been promoted to take the role of Charlotte Division vice president. 

Roskovich began his Publix career in 1975 as a part-time front service clerk in Lauderhill, FL. He transferred to the meat department in 1977 and was promoted to meat manager in 1984. In 1992, as meat manager, he had the privilege of being part of the management team that opened the company’s first store in the Atlanta Division.

A.V. Thomas Produce Inc. entered into a definitive merger agreement with Yagi Bros. Produce, one of the original sweet potato growers, packers and shippers in California, which started in 1947.

U.S. Customs & Border Protection officers assigned to the Otay Mesa Cargo Facility seized a large quantity of narcotics concealed within a shipment of radishes on Jan. 29.

The New England Produce Council is inviting the industry to a new venue, Encore Boston Harbor in Everett, MA, for its 23rd NEPC Produce, Floral & Food Service Expo, scheduled to take place Aug. 21-22.

The Encore Boston Harbor is a destination venue that will host both the expo exhibits and overnight guest rooms.