For the second consecutive year, the International Fresh Produce Association’s Washington Conference took place in June (instead of September), bringing together industry leaders, policymakers and advocates to champion and safeguard the future of fresh produce.

David H. Murdock, former owner, chairman and CEO of Dole Food Co., died June 9. He was 102.

Mr. Murdock stood apart — a singular force in American business — a self-made billionaire, visionary entrepreneur and enduring advocate for health, longevity and innovation.

As the company's guiding star from 1985 to 2020, Mr. Murdock transformed the global produce landscape through bold investments, science-driven leadership and an unwavering belief in the power of nutrition.

Diana Ybarra has joined Baloian Farms as an account manager, bringing with her more than two decades of experience in sales, account management and customer service within the produce industry.

The Colombia Avocado Board partnered with Weis Markets Inc. to launch the Heart of Colombia Avocado Display Contest, a retail campaign designed to drive consumer excitement and increase impulse avocado purchases. 

Beginning in mid-June and lasting deep into the summer, the Duke blueberry variety from New Jersey is a very important factor in the year-round blueberry program for Trucco Inc., which is headquartered on New York Hunts Point Market in the Bronx.

It’s been a big year for Ben B. Schwartz & Sons.

“We made several, key sales hires to help support our expansion efforts into new areas, such as Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia, Illinois and Wisconsin,” said Bill Loupée, chief operating officer for the company.

The three new salespeople added to the team are Josh Harrison, Scott Bagan and Paul Suttmiller.