Arkansas tomatoes have long been considered an important source for both retailers and foodservice operators in North America during the summer months. But the industry there has enjoyed particularly strong growth and momentum since the cash auction system it previously operated under ended a few years ago, according to two of the leading players in the deal.

The Oppenheimer Group, based in Vancouver, BC, announced two key promotions, effective May 2.

David Smith, sales manager of Oppenheimer's Los Angeles office and executive director of its greenhouse category, was named vice president of sales and marketing for categories. Sales representative Eric Coty has been promoted to Los Angeles sales manager.

In his newly created role, Mr. Smiths primary responsibility is to oversee the alignment of Oppenheimers category approach with its overall sales and marketing strategies.

MONTEREY, CA  In an effort to move the produce industry forward through technology, the Produce Marketing Association announced the launch of ASAP: Produce at its RFID Fresh Produce Academy & Expo held here June 2.

WENATCHEE, WA -- Stemilt Growers Inc. has selected organic fruit grower and packer Harold Ostenson as the newest member of its horticultural staff and part of the Stemilt team that focuses on organic tree fruit cultivation, packing and post-harvest practices.

Mr. Ostenson, who started at Stemilt on May 23, has been a tree fruit grower for 30 years, with the last 20 focused on organic production and packing. Most of his fruit-growing acreage is located in the Columbia Basin, where he raises apples, pears, cherries, stone fruits and berries.

The Delaware Department of Agriculture in Dover has launched a project to help small-volume fresh produce farms develop value-added products.

Through a business transaction that resulted in each company buying a significant percentage of the other, California-based Calavo Growers Inc. and Limoneira Co. have reached a strategic alliance that is expected to strengthen both firms.

The most immediate benefit, according to Calavo's Lee Cole, is the extra 10 million pounds of California avocados now in the Calavo camp. Mr. Cole, who is chairman of the board, CEO and president of Calavo, told The Produce News that the additional tonnage "is significant. In fact, it significantly reduces our packing costs."