Charlie’s Produce announced the full operational integration of its Phoenix operations following the acquisition of Stern Produce in 2024. With systems, branding and supply chain integration now complete, Charlie’s Produce is positioned to serve foodservice, retail, hospitality, healthcare and education customers across Arizona.

Titan Farms announced the upgrade of its Spectrim sorting platform with LUCAi, an advanced AI-powered sorting intelligence designed to elevate quality, consistency and operational efficiency across its packing operations.

Alexandra Farms put a special spotlight on one of talented photographers. Flower photography came naturally to Galina Serebriakova. It was not until a friend pointed out her instinctive eye for floral structure and beauty that she considered a career beyond her role as a coffee specialist for a large company. Encouraged by that realization — and a growing sense of unfulfillment — Serebriakova turned to floral design. Over time, she became an influential designer and the owner of GALA, based in Bogotá, Colombia.

The California Avocado Commission's early-season crop forecast projects 330 million pounds of California avocados. This estimate includes 310 million pounds of Hass and 20 million pounds of GEM, Lamb Hass and other avocado varieties. With continual investment in new plantings and nearly 51,000 acres now producing California avocados, 2026 is expected to be the third consecutive year with volume in excess of 300 million pounds. While some harvesting already has occurred, the peak of promotable volume is expected from April into August.

The Canadian Produce Marketing Association is calling on the government of Canada to consult with the industry on future plans to regulate packaging following today’s Federal Court of Appeal decision, which ruled in favour of the government of Canada’s listing of plastic manufactured items under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act.

Church Brothers Farms announced that Omar Bobadilla has joined the company as chief strategy and operations officer. Bobadilla brings more than 20 years of leadership experience across the fresh produce supply chain, including manufacturing, agricultural sourcing, distribution and engineering.