Idaho potatoes were the hit of the season as more retail produce departments than ever before competed — and won — in the 35th annual Idaho Potato Lovers Display Contest.

Wakefern Food Corp. and ShopRite were proud to continue their longstanding support of the Special Olympics New Jersey Summer Games, held June 5-7 at The College of New Jersey. More than 300 volunteers — including Wakefern team members, ShopRite associates and their families — lent their time and energy throughout the event, continuing a nearly 40-year tradition at the games.

Ben B. Schwartz & Sons is having a great 2026 so far, building on its distribution growth last year, adding to the sales team and expanding its presence to the west side of Michigan.

Getting produce from here to there is vital. Freight may not be the most glamorous part of the supply chain, but it is every bit important as the other aspects. According to C.H. Robinson and its latest Edge Report, North American freight markets face rising structural pressure.

The report stated that the produce season is placing continued pressure on refrigerated transportation networks across North America. While trucks remain available produce shippers are facing less flexibility in key regions. 

The eighth Eastern Produce Council Leadership Class gained firsthand knowledge of production practices and logistics while touring farms and facilities in southern New Jersey and Philadelphia. The trip was held June 2, and began at the farm of Frank Donio Inc. in Hammonton, NJ.

Westfalia Fruit, a global leader in the avocado industry, announced the appointment of Tommy Padilla as president, North America. 

One of the most respected figures in the global avocado trade, Padilla brings more than 20 years in the global food industry, the majority of it dedicated to avocados, along with a track record of building international sales, shaping export strategy and developing high-performing commercial teams. He arrives at a pivotal moment for Westfalia Fruit as the company accelerates its growth across North America.