While creating a product that is ideal for the retail level is extremely important, officials at the Volm Companies really want to focus on producing packaging with the packer in mind.

“Yes, we want to create a package that is ideal at the retail level, but first you have to get it there,” said Marsha Pozza, the Antigo, WI-based company’s director of marketing and communications. “This is where our experience and knowledge of the packing line equipment comes in. Not only do we manufacture the bags, we make the equipment that runs on.

California Giant Berry Farms recently held its 17th Skirt Steak BBQ fundraising event, which resulted in more than $19,000 raised for the California Giant Foundation, the company’s 501(c)3 non-profit that distributes funds to organizations making a positive change in health and wellness for current and future generations.

With September just a few days away, The Foundation For Fresh Produce is gearing up to celebrate the fifth annual National Fruits & Veggies Month. Launched alongside the Have A Plant Movement in 2019 as an opportunity to elevate fruit and vegetable consumption to a national priority, the annual month-long observance has reached more than 260 million impressions collectively since its inception.

While wrapping up its 130th season, Sunkist is looking ahead, focusing on the highly-anticipated return of California citrus season.

Growing apples in southeast Michigan is a year-long venture for the Swindeman family — owners and operators of Applewood Orchards and Applewood Fresh Growers. “We start working on next year’s crop almost immediately after the current crop is harvested,” said Michael Swindeman, a grower at Applewood Orchards. “The orchards are mowed, irrigation systems are winterized, equipment maintenance is performed and construction of new trellis systems begin for spring’s new plantings.”

A year after being acquired by Cencosud, there are plans to expand The Fresh Market's store count with 22 new locations in the next two years.

Parent company Cencosud celebrated a successful first anniversary, noting important financial and commercial synergies, achieving a total impact in financial statements of $75.8 million.