The Fresh Produce & Floral Council has hired Matthew Hayes to serve as its new program and events director, replacing the recently departed Emma McBride Taylor, who served as the event and communications specialist for the California-based trade association.

With harvest under way throughout the four growing regions, Pear Bureau Northwest announced the first estimate of the 2024-25 fresh pear crop for Washington and Oregon. The industry’s fresh pear estimate is 10.6 million standard box equivalents, which is down 31 percent from the five-year average.

In the coastal regions of Central and Southern California cooler weather and a little rain will hinder growth rates and add a little moisture to the region this week. The cool temperatures will be short lived, however, as high pressure returns over the weekend bringing above-average temperatures once again next week.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ — The Eastern Produce Council held its annual Tailgate Dinner Sept. 17, here, at MetLife Stadium, home to the National Football League's Giants and Jets.

Attendees had the opportunity to tour the stadium, including the field and press box, before festivities kicked off with a cocktail hour and dinner, followed by an inspirational talk by former New York Giants receiver and special teams player David Tyree, who caught one of the most iconic passes in NFL history when the team beat the previously undefeated New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII.

Courchesne Larose Group entered into an agreement to partner with Veg-Pak Produce Ltd., a leading Ontario-based value-added wholesaler and processor of fresh produce.

Partnering with Veg-Pak marks a pivotal strategic opportunity for Courchesne Larose to establish itself as a major player in Canada’s two largest markets. By launching its first physical operations in Ontario, the company will enhance its capacity to effectively and comprehensively serve customers in that province, as well as all major national retailers.

Due to the cumulative impact of ongoing economic challenges and rising food prices, dining out is estimated to be four times more expensive than eating at home. As a result, retailers, foodservice operators and distributors who want to better engage with their target consumers will have new opportunities with the right product mix, including Side Delights Amazables!.