United Natural Foods Inc. named JJ Schlangen to the position of president of central region, effective Feb. 5. Schlangen will lead one of the company’s three regional sales divisions and will report to Chief Customer Officer Steve Dietz.

Michigan apples are a year-round program for North Bay Produce and are therefore a very important segment to the company’s sales and profits.

A cooperative of more than 32 grower-owners from North, Central and South America, North Bay started as an apple company but has since expanded to a plethora of fresh fruits and vegetables year-round.

Every produce marketer has their eyes — and their marketing — focused on the consumer. One industry conference has that same focus: The Consumer Connection Conference, brought to you by the Foundation for Fresh Produce. This year’s event will take place April 29-May 1 in Phoenix, AZ.

Natural Delights is gearing up for Ramadan next month by offering its two- and five-pound window boxes to meet the need during the brand’s highest sales period of the year. This year’s holy celebration starts on March 10, but Muslim shoppers will be searching for Natural Delights products in late-February to prepare for the holiday.

Last Ramadan, average weekly Medjool date sales increased by 37 percent for the category, while Natural Delights average weekly sales increased by 47 percent, according to Circana data.

FloraCraft, the world’s leading manufacturer and marketer of floral and craft foam, has unveiled two new products just in time for Valentine’s Day – FloraCheers! Bottle Bouquet Rings and Cup o’ Cheer Mug Plugs.

Jeff Oberman has joined Dobler & Sons LLC as its chief operating officer, a newly created leadership position for the company. Oberman will drive strategic initiatives while offering support to both Dobler & Sons' core farming operations as well as its affiliated companies.

"We have had the pleasure of knowing Jeff throughout his agriculture career and look forward to collaborating with him as a valued member of our team,” said Craig Dobler, partner of Dobler & Sons.