Immediate customer response, in-depth knowledge of the fresh produce industry, and an ability to think outside the box. These are the qualities that characterize New Star Sales & Marketing Co. in Champaign, IL, according to company President John Aune and his business partner Tom Spivey, a director in the company. The two seasoned professionals said that they seek to deliver the highest level of personal service to their client base.

It is a rare government regulation that receives universal high marks, but such is seemingly the case with the new truck fuel efficiency standard announced Aug. 9 by the Obama administration.

For the first time ever, fuel efficiency standards have been established for medium- and heavy-duty trucks that haul the nation’s freight from coast to coast, including the majority of its fresh fruits and vegetables. The new standards were applauded by representatives of the truck manufacturing industry, as well as truckers and environmentalists.

Edge Sales & Marketing, a leading retail broker located in Pleasanton, CA, has hired DIANE KIRKPATRICK as retail operations manager, assisting in the development and execution of retail best practices and go-to-market strategies. She will have direct ongoing communication with the clients and retail partners, and will also follow the company’s business initiatives across all U.S. Safeway banners.

A produce veteran and a newcomer to the agricultural industry have opened a wholesale house on the Los Angeles Wholesale Produce Market. The two are also combining their talents, with one being a longtime business owner and the other making his first foray into being a principal. And finally, the duo has another link: one is married to the other’s daughter.

Sun World International LLC, based in Bakersfield, CA, announced the appointment of Claudio Olave to the position of director of quality assurance and food safety.

Since introducing conditioned pears nearly a decade ago, Rainier Fruit Co. in Selah, WA, has seen significant growth in the program and, according to Marketing Director Suzanne Wolter, continues to emphasize the value of conditioned pears at retail.

“That’s where the future is. That’s where the excitement is,” Ms. Wolter told The Produce News. “People want to experience the flavor of pears, and a conditioned d’Anjou is absolutely wonderful — sweet and juicy.”