The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that La Mera Buena Produce Inc., operating out of Saint Paul, MN, has satisfied a $44,629 reparation order resulting from unpaid produce transactions under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. The company has met its obligations and is now free to operate in the produce industry. Ramiro Hernandez Marquez was listed as the officer, director and major stockholder of the business, and may now be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee.

The Idaho Potato Commission earned top recognition at the 2026 Best of NAMA Awards, taking home First Place, Best of Show, and Grand Champion for its campaign, Hidden In The Data.

Presented annually by the National Agri-Marketing Association, the Best of NAMA Awards recognize the best marketing and communications work across the agricultural industry. Grand Champion is the competition’s highest honor, selected from the year’s top Best of Show winners.

Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella Inc. announced the recipients of its fourth annual Setton Earth Day scholarship contest. This initiative was created as part of the Setton family’s ongoing commitment to helping students reach their educational goals and spreading awareness about the importance of sustainability. 

Last week, the Canadian Produce Marketing Association hosted its 2026 Convention and Trade Show, which brought together produce industry members, innovators, and attendees from around the world. The event was highly successful, attracting over 4,600 attendees.

Publix Super Markets announced Executive Chairman Todd Jones’ intent to retire, effective May 31, 2026. He will remain actively involved in the company as chairman of the Publix board of directors.

Joolies, a leading California-based date brand, announced the nationwide launch of Date Sours, a new healthy sour candy alternative made from organic dates, now available exclusively at Sprouts Farmers Market. The product will debut on the Sprouts Forager Table to start with permanent in-line shelf placement already confirmed after the 90-day Forager window closes.