JOH has promoted Brian LaMarche to vice president of produce, north central region. Since joining JOH in early 2025, LaMarche has quickly made a meaningful impact, helping strengthen the company’s growing presence in produce across the North Central market.

Bobalu Berry Farms has named Don Hobson its vice president of sales and business development. Bringing more than 30 years of produce industry experience, Hobson joins the Bobalu leadership team with an exceptional track record of driving strategic growth, strengthening customer partnerships, and expanding market opportunities across retail programs and foodservice channels.

Ronald Bown Fernández, the historic president of Frutas de Chile who led the organization for more than three decades, has died.

Nickey Gregory, founder of Nickey Gregory Co., dedicated more than four decades of his life to the wholesale produce business. He was a mentor, leader, friend and a steady hand to many across the Southeast and throughout the industry. Mr. Gregory’s influence can be felt at every level of the supply chain, in the customers he served, the growers he stood beside, the partners who came to rely on him and the team he built and inspired every day.

Sprouts Farmers Market Inc. announced the addition of Andrew Jhawar to its board of directors.

“We are excited to welcome Andy Jhawar to our board of directors,” said Joseph Fortunato, chairman of the board of Sprouts. “Andy’s unparalleled depth of experience in the consumer and retail industry will be invaluable to the company as we continue to execute on our long-term growth strategy.”

Robert K. Irving, one of the most influential changemakers in the Prince Edward Island potato industry, co-CEO of J.D. Irving Ltd. and president of Cavendish Farms, died May 19. He was 71. 

Mr. Irving transformed a small, Island-based frozen foods operation into Cavendish Farms, now one of the largest French fry processing companies in North America. His vision, discipline, and long-term commitment helped transform Prince Edward Island’s processing potato sector.