The International Fresh Produce Association announced that Tamara Muruetagoiena has been promoted to become IFPA’s first ever vice president of sustainability. Muruetagoiena joined the organization in April 2022 and established the critical importance of the produce and floral industry taking the lead in sustainability efforts of the entire fresh and food systems.

Dole Food Co. has kicked off a busy year of health, wellness and hunger-relief initiatives by extending its partnership with No Kid Hungry, a campaign of Share Our Strength, committed to ending hunger and poverty, for a third consecutive year in 2024. The company’s alliance with the national nonprofit began in summer 2020 in response to the impact of COVID-19 when schools closed and millions more U.S. children were left facing hunger.

In a remarkable market feat, CMI Orchards announced a soaring demand for Ambrosia Gold apples. The latest Nielsen IQ year-over-year scan data for the 13-week period ending Dec. 2 reveals a significant surge in sales. Nurtured in Washington’s prime growing climate, the report highlights the exceptional appeal of these apples and reflects an increasing consumer preference for the CMI-exclusive Ambrosia Gold.

FloraCraft announced the late Don Zwiefka as the 2023 FloraCraft Wall of Fame Honoree. The FloraCraft Wall of Fame is dedicated to recognizing and honoring individuals who have contributed to the organization’s success and have played an essential role in its mission. 

Church Brothers Farms announced that Amelia Firme has joined the company as vice president of packaging procurement. Firme has had an impressive 42-year career in purchasing, including 26 years as the director of purchasing at Organic Girl LLC.

Dollar General Corp. announced Steve Sunderland’s intent to leave the company as its executive vice president, store operations effective Jan. 19. Steve Deckard, the company’s current executive vice president, growth and emerging markets, will transition to an expanded role leading store operations across Dollar General retail locations, Mi Súper Dollar General in Mexico, pOpshelf stores and the corporate store operations teams.