Though the U.S. market remains the primary focus for the marketing and distribution of its avocados, Oxnard, CA-based Mission Produce sees plenty of opportunities for growth in other parts of the world.

Flashfood, the marketplace for affordable groceries, launched Flashfood for Independents, a new offering designed specifically for independently owned grocers. This initiative will support local retailers by providing them with a flexible, efficient and easy-to-onboard solution to attract new customers, boost profits and provide access to affordable fresh food in their communities while reducing food waste.

ADS Management, the Westhampton, NY-based parent company of produce companies Hapco Farms and Freshouse, has promoted Eric Scannelli to chief operating officer.

In his new role, Scannelli will oversee sales and marketing, grower operations, procurement and operations/transportation across both companies, and he will be instrumental in expanding grower deals and infrastrucre to further establish ADS Management and its produce companies as leaders in the industry.

Agrifruit LLC and affiliated companies — Bobalu Berries, Agrifrost Processing and West Coast Berry Farms — announced a new strategic alignment with Freska Produce International. This alignment was formed to enhance company growth and build on the strengths developed over the past several years.

The National Mascot Hall of Fame has unveiled a special display featuring Bobby Banana, the celebrated seven-foot ambassador of Dole Food Co. created in 1992 to promote healthy living around the world.

Now through Sept. 30, Bobby Banana: Dole’s Healthy-Living Icon for a Hungry World chronicles the inception and growth of the exuberant, sneakers-wearing Cavendish banana responsible for inspiring generations of kids and families toward nutritious food choices and active lifestyles.

UFA Co-operative Ltd. and MyLand, a pioneering soil health company based in Phoenix, AZ, announced a three-year collaboration on a commercial pilot with various growers in Alberta. This initiative is set to transform responsible farming practices and soil health management, leveraging advanced microbial technologies to benefit farmers and the environment.