Robert K. Irving, one of the most influential changemakers in the Prince Edward Island potato industry, co-CEO of J.D. Irving Ltd. and president of Cavendish Farms, died May 19. He was 71. 

Mr. Irving transformed a small, Island-based frozen foods operation into Cavendish Farms, now one of the largest French fry processing companies in North America. His vision, discipline, and long-term commitment helped transform Prince Edward Island’s processing potato sector.

In the 23 years that IPR Fresh has been in business, the company has carved out a strong niche supplying premium Mexican produce — with a particular emphasis on greenhouse-grown colored Bell peppers — to customers throughout North America. Now, the Nogales, AZ-based company is focused on an ambitious growth strategy aimed at significantly expanding sales over the next five years.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture filed an administrative complaint against Williams Produce LLC. The company, operating from South Carolina, allegedly failed to make prompt payment to 14 produce sellers in the amount of $816,749 from July 2023 through February 2025, in violation of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act.

Following nearly 10 years of development and a successful pilot and market introduction, Royal Van Zanten, Together2Grow and Coloríginz (part of Dutch Flower Group) are taking the next step with Astronova. This strategic collaboration across the supply chain forms the foundation for the continued growth and development of this new cut flower.

HILLSDALE, NJ — The New Jersey Department of Agriculture hosted the Eastern Produce Council's Jersey Fresh Cookout on a toasty evening, May 19, here, at Demarest Farms. Jersey Fresh produce and other locally sourced food and beverages held a starring role throughout the evening as the state-sponsored program — the oldest of its kind — marked its 42nd year.

Corine van den Berg started the Montana nursery in Poeldijk 35 years ago with her husband, Frank van Holst. They have passed on their love for lisianthus to their children, two of whom now work in the business. “As a mother, it’s wonderful to work alongside my two sons.”