The Kissabel apple season has officially begun in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing strong harvest forecasts and a renewed focus on consumer engagement.

The International Fresh Produce Association's Global Produce & Floral Show took place in Anaheim, CA, Oct. 16-18, and while the show is over the connections made and lessons learned will help power the industry moving forward. The three-day event attracted attendees from more than 50 countries, and a record number of buyers — more than 3,500 — engaged with the almost 1,100 exhibiting companies on the show floor. This year’s show had the largest representative of global retailers ever.

At the end of May 2026, Van Zanten Flowerbulbs in Hillegom will permanently close its doors. After more than a century and a half, there is an end to one of the oldest bulb companies in the Netherlands. The company originates from the Veldhuyzen van Zanten family; A family that from the end of the 19th century already put the cultivation of and trade in flower bulbs on the global map.

The Kroger Co. is seeking to hire more than 18,000 associates to prepare for the busy holiday season and beyond. 

Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. has teamed up with the NHL's Florida Panthers for an engaging new partnership. The two Florida-based brands are coming together to connect with fans through interactive in-arena experiences, community events, digital content and youth hockey initiatives — all designed to blend the excitement of hockey with Fresh Del Monte’s commitment to inspiring healthier lifestyles.

Driscoll’s has pledged $5 million to Cal Poly’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. This transformative investment will launch a state-of-the-art farm store, anchoring Cal Poly’s new Plant Sciences Complex and advancing the university’s commitment to developing future leaders in food and agriculture.