Gelson’s Markets, a premier Southern California-based supermarket chain, announced that Pan Pacific International Holdings and TPG Capital have entered into a definitive agreement pursuant to which PPIH will acquire Gelson’s from TPG Capital. The deal is expected to close in the second quarter of 2021 and is subject to customary closing conditions.

USA Pears said it is excited to launch its #WhatsInYourFruitBowl initiative at a time when consumers are more focused than ever on developing healthy eating habits at home. Taking place during the month of March, this year is set to be the most wide-reaching initiative yet with powerful industry partnerships and engagement.

Beachside Produce, based in Guadalupe, CA, and Total Quality Logistics Transportation, based in Cincinnati, are partnering to donate and deliver 40,000 pounds of fresh vegetables to the Central Texas Food Bank in Austin, TX.

After weeks of waiting, Tom Vilsack has officially been confirmed as the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture. During his confirmation hearing in early February, Secretary Vilsack noted his priorities included tackling the COVID-19 recovery and addressing climate change.

Officers with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations at the Pharr International Bridge cargo facility discovered that a produce shipment from Mexico also contained $11.5 million worth of alleged methamphetamine hidden within the trailer.

“This is a substantial amount of hard narcotics seized from drug trafficking organizations attempting to smuggle drugs across our border,” said Carlos Rodriguez, port director, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas port of entry. “This significant interception will keep the drugs from reaching our communities.”

Like many annual events over the past 12 months, the Viva Fresh Open paused in 2020 while the world coped with an unforeseen pandemic. But now, the eagerly awaited tournament resurfaces in Dallas as the industry gathers at the first in-person produce expo in more than a year.