Baldor Specialty Foods has started 2024 in a sprint.

The company has hired a new chief people officer in Regina Picciano from Southern Glazer Wines & Spirits, and promoted Ben Walker, who has been with the company for 11 years leading sales and marketing, to chief revenue officer.

The transition to California's coastal valleys (Oxnard, Santa Maria and Salinas) continues as more growers begin production in these areas. The various regions received up to an inch of rain over the weekend in many locations, which was quite a bit more than what was forecast for many areas.  

CMI Orchards is poised to make waves this summer, adding significant volume and expanded seasonal availability to complement its expansive cherry portfolio. Bob Mast, president of CMI, said the acquisition of Starr Ranch growers back in November 2023 substantially bolstered CMI’s cherry supply with supply partners Custom Apple Packers in Wenatchee, WA, and Diamond Fruit Growers in Hood River, OR.

Oppy has renewed its sponsorship with competitive skier Emeline Bennett. As a company committed to excellence and quality, Oppy recognized Bennett's dedication to her sport and values her commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, aligning perfectly with the company’s core principles.

Exp Group, one of the go-to importers and marketers of tropical and Latin items, has more than four decades of experience which has kept its name in the produce spotlight.

Robt. T. Cochran & Co. has more than 130 years of experience in the produce industry, working with those in the industry to provide the best value around for its customers.

Michael Cochran, vice president of sales for the company, is a fifth-generation family member at the Hunts Point Terminal Market in the Bronx, NY, and knows his family’s legacy in the industry has helped the company remain a success.

The early word on 2024 is pretty much following the pattern of last year, with some challenges impacting how things are going.