Big Y has announced that they will close all of their stores including Big Y World Class Markets, Table & Vine and Fresh Acres specialty market on Thanksgiving, Nov. 26 as well as Friday, Nov. 27. Big Y Express Gas & Convenience locations will be closed on Thanksgiving Day as well.

The United States Department of Agriculture has announced the results from the National Mango Board’s continuance referendum; first handlers and importers approved continuing their federal research and promotion program, and removing the provisions of frozen mangos as a covered commodity under the program.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year — when Stemilt’s new crop Artisan Organics apples and pears are in peak season. To ensure retailers make the most of their organic apple and pear categories, Stemilt’s senior marketing manager, Brianna Shales, encourages retailers to plan bulk promotions on Stemilt’s Artisan Organics apples and pears to provide consumers a delightful eating experience. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has imposed sanctions on LoneStar Produce Express LLC in San Antonio, TX, for violating the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. These sanctions include barring the business and the principal operators of the business from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without approval from USDA.

Following recently issued Centers for Disease Control guidelines stating that the COVID-19 virus can be spread through the air, Lidl US announced today it will install new air filtration systems rated MERV 13 or higher in all of its U.S. stores by the end of this year. Air filters rated MERV 13 or higher, which are typically found in hospitals, help filter out COVID-19, according to public health and industry leaders.

The Southeast Produce Council announced Wednesday, Oct. 21, that Kristin Yerecic Scott, marketing director and Board of Officers member at Yerecic Label, is the recipient of the council's Next Generation Award for 2020.

The announcement was made via the SEPC Virtual Garden.