December was a very strong month for apples and pears, which were up 7 percent and 12 percent in dollar sales, respectively. Double-digit organic growth in both categories, combined with strong showings by core and emerging apple varieties, drove the great results.

The application period has opened for the Class 26 of the United Fresh Produce Industry Leadership Program. Since its inception in 1995, more than 250 produce industry professionals have graduated from this exclusive program, thanks to the support of founding sponsor Corteva Agriscience.

While millions of football fans begin gearing up to watch the biggest game in football, the makers of Wholly Guacamole, America’s No. 1 selling refrigerated guacamole brand made with hand-scooped Hass avocados, are preparing for an equally busy season: helping fans prevent pre-game injuries related to their favorite Sunday football snack.

Scott Schuette, vice president of produce and floral for Fresh Thyme Market, is set to leave the company in the next week after a six-year stint of his 30-year career in the business.

“The decision was made last Monday, but this was a combination of a restructuring and reorganization decision on the part of the company and it coincided with some changes that were about due for myself,” he said. “I’m working on a two-week exit plan right now, and this will be my last week as they hand off the torch and I get them set up for success to the best of my ability.”

Fresh off Troy Bland's move to Bland Farms’ new CEO — rising from his former position as the company’s chief operating officer — the company announced two more staff changes.

Luke McBee is being promoted to director of operations. McBee is a five-year veteran of Bland Farms. He has a bachelor's degree in accounting and a minor in finance from Georgia Southern University. He is also treasurer of the Altamaha Boy’s & Girl’s Club.

As Oppy continues to look for increased efficiencies and powerful partnerships across its operations, the leading grower has brought together two top cherry brands, Katicich Ranch and Brookside, to form Katco Packing.