The closing day of the Organic Grower Summit  on Dec. 1, 2022 was a whirlwind of activity and celebration. A morning full of educational sessions provided insight into the growth, opportunities and future of CEA production while industry leaders also discussed the softening demand for organics and what growers can do.

The National Watermelon Promotion Board launched an online toolkit to promote watermelon during the winter months. The new landing page is designed as a resource for retailers, media and industry members, such as watermelon importers, to help position and promote watermelon year-round.

A tireless advocate for modernity, The St. Regis Venice has made a name for itself as a hub of contemporary art that celebrates the hotel's gorgeous heritage bones while embracing innovation in all its forms. In its latest creative partnership, the property collaborated with Berlin-based Studio Mary Lennox to design festive and sculptural interventions that will be on display across the hotel spaces through the holidays.

The New York Apple Association is showcasing Appletizer ideas on its social media platforms — just in time for the holidays.

“Appletizers are the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season, whether you are hosting a party for friends or a Christmas dinner,” said Cynthia Haskins, president and CEO of the NYAA. “We are taking cross-merchandising to a new level this holiday season. We are encouraging retailers to build large displays of New York apples along with simple, easy-to-grab-and-go pairing ideas for the holiday season.”

Earlier this year Kroger Co. said it would grow sales and share by leading with fresh food and increase profitability by accelerating with digital. Those plans are paying off, according to the company's third quarter 2022 results.

Kroger said its go-to-market strategy is delivering value for customers with Our Brands identical sales up 10.4 percent, digital sales up 10 percent and its Fresh Produce Initiative accelerated with a total of 1,252 stores certified, driving higher identical sales — up 6.9 percent excluding fuel.

Produce professionals from throughout the industry headed to Manhattan for the New York Produce Show & Conference. The highly anticipated event offers attendees networking opportunities, a one-day trade show, educational micro-sessions and an inside look at the produce industry in the Northeast. Last night the Opening Cocktail Reception was held at the New York Hilton.