Kristen Reid of MIXTEC Group has been involved with the Fresh Produce & Floral Council since 2010, initially serving on a number of committees. As the years went on, she got more and more involved in the council, including its educational work. She has always appreciated how the organization has brought regional suppliers and buyers together for the betterment of the fresh produce and floral industry.

H-E-B has been named the top U.S. Grocery Retailer in the seventh annual dunnhumby Retailer Preference Index, a comprehensive, nationwide study that examines the approximately $1 trillion U.S. grocery market. H-E-B is the first grocery retailer to be recognized three times as No. 1 in the RPI ranking, surpassing Amazon and Trader Joe’s, who both ranked as top grocer twice. Amazon (second) and Costco (third) round out the top three grocers in the U.S. for a second year in a row.

The Washington Apple Education Foundation is celebrating its 30th anniversary, commemorating three decades of unwavering commitment to shaping the future of students in the apple industry. Established in 1994, WAEF has played a pivotal role in providing educational opportunities to thousands of students, fostering a community dedicated to academic excellence and personal growth.

D'Arrigo California unveiled its baby gem lettuce, a premium offering under the esteemed Andy Boy label. The new item is now shipping in two-, three- and 42-count liner pack sizes.

“This new addition to our product lineup reinforces our dedication to providing innovative, high-quality products. The baby gem line has been developed to be a solution for both our retail and foodservice sectors,” said John D'Arrigo, president, CEO and chairman of the board.

Ocean Mist Farms' first Frost-Kissed crop of the season is currently being harvested out of its southern growing region in Coachella, CA. These specialty artichokes are shipping now and will be intermittently available throughout the winter. Special petal inserts have been developed to help educate the consumer about the unique condition of these artichokes.

The Kroger Co. is offering savings on thousands of fresh, natural and organic products — including mini seedless cucumbers, Yukon Gold potatoes and Honeycrisp apples — and dishing on ways customers can access health and nutrition support at Kroger all year long.