The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that Fernando McIntyre, doing business as Morning Star Produce, satisfied an $8,640 reparation order issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act involving unpaid produce transactions.

The McAllen, TX, company can continue operating in the produce industry upon applying for and being issued a PACA license. McIntyre was listed as the sole proprietor of the business and may now be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee.

WP Rawl, a premier grower, processor and shipper of leafy greens, honored fallen military heroes by participating in Wreaths Across America Day this December.

WP Rawl’s dedicated truck and trailer traveled from Pelion, SC, to Columbia Falls, ME, to pick up thousands of fresh evergreen wreaths to be placed on the headstones of veterans — a symbol used for centuries to recognize and honor the fallen.

Southeastern Grocers Inc., parent company and home of BI-LO, Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie grocery stores, together with the SEG Gives Foundation, has given more than $8.25 million back to local communities this year to support neighbors in need.

Despite an especially challenging year, the grocer has continued its undeniable dedication to the communities it serves by partnering with more than 4,700 local organizations throughout the Southeast, hosting more than 30 mobile food pantries and providing more than 10 million meals to help fight hunger.

Stater Bros. Markets announced a two-week extension of its $2/hour incentive for every hour worked. The extended time period starts on the work period beginning Sunday, Dec. 27.  This incentive will apply to all of the company’s hourly employees that work in the stores, distribution, transportation, corporate offices and construction.

In the spirit of being a good neighbor, Chiquita is continuing to lead relief efforts for the Central American communities affected by Hurricanes Eta and Iota earlier this year. The company has a strong tie to the region, as it has been cultivating its yellow bananas there for more than 100 years. In the aftermath of the recent natural disasters, the company has supported Central Americans by providing resources such as food, medical supplies, monetary donations, and more.

Even in a "normal" year it can be difficult for retailers to boost their premium apple sales during the holiday season, but add in a global pandemic and changing consumer behaviors, and it becomes that much more of a challenge to create a sound premium apple strategy.