Growing broccoli on the East Coast is a challenge to be sure. Volatile weather and fluctuating markets can strike at any time, leaving growers leaning hard on backup in the West to cover commitments to their customers.

Recent heat and weather-related quality issues in Eastern crops at the end of June have been humbling for the Smith team. Risk mitigation with backup supply in other areas only goes so far when you are losing weeks of total acreage and the market is high.

Last month, I had the privilege of attending the International Fresh Produce Association & Partnership for a Healthier America’s Produce for All Summit. More than 150 people filled the room with passion and determination as we plotted toward the goal of doubling consumption of produce in 15 cities by 2030.

Natural Grocers announced that Todd Dissinger, chief financial officer, has informed the company of his intention to retire on Dec. 31, 2024.

Sunview Marketing International, a three-generation family farm located in the San Joaquin Valley of California, is poised for an exciting new season ahead.

Manfredi Cold Storage is a family-owned and operated third-party logistics company that provides temperature-controlled storage, repacking, refrigerated freight and other services to the produce industry. 

The company is currently in a big growth mode with five projects in the works.

Honesty, integrity and a solid hands-on management style has played huge roles in the success of Turek Farms.

Now, officials at the King Ferry, NY-based company are confident that approach will continue to help the nearly 100-year-old company succeed in the future.