Measure to Improve and Equitable Food Initiative partnered for the first time on a pilot program, bringing an innovative approach to building organizational capacity, improving waste management practices and reducing greenhouse gas emissions to three California agricultural facilities. The Produce & Reuse pilot program’s success is attributed to the open collaboration between the two industry leaders and three participating companies — Misionero, Good Farms and Windset Farms.

Niagara Fresh Fruit Co., a division of Bucolo Cold Storage, has added John J. King to its sales team.

King originates from the crop protectant industry with over 15 years of sales experience working with apple growers in western New York.  His extensive field experience and knowledge of growing apples will bring a new and invigorating perspective to the sales team at Niagara Fresh Fruit. 

In addition to sales responsibilities, King will also be helping to manage over 1,000 acres of the farming operation.

Limoneira Co. has entered into an exclusive licensing relationship with Apeel Sciences. Limoneira will protect lemons across its supply chain with Apeel’s coating technology.

Associated Food Stores and Symbotic Inc. have entered into a commercial agreement to implement Symbotic’s A.I.-powered robotic warehouse automation technology in AFS’ Utah distribution center.

Symbotic’s end-to-end automation system, with robotic case pick capabilities, will allow AFS’ distribution center to improve a variety of retail-facing experiences, including overall supply, expanded selection and delivery of products to stores.

The Colombia Avocado Board recently announced a 104 percent increase in total avocado pounds shipped to the U.S. thus far for the 2022-23 season. This data is provided by the Hass Avocado Board, which tracks shipments and sales of Hass avocados from all growing regions.

M. Levin and Co. was founded in 1906 in Philadelphia — owned and operated by the same family for all of these years — and is the among the oldest family-owned-and-operated produce wholesalers in the area.