United Natural Foods Inc. plans to implement an A.I.-powered robotic automation system in its soon-to-be-completed distribution center in Manchester, PA. This advanced system, manufactured by Symbotic, is the second installation for UNFI and part of the company’s commitment to further enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of its distribution center network.

Once installed, UNFI expects the system to enhance the customer experience, improve quality and service to customers, increase capacity within its facilities and lower overall costs to fulfill customer orders.

The official crop forecast for the California Avocado Commission’s fiscal year 2023-24 is 208 million pounds, compared to the prior year volume of 237 million pounds. Weather and market conditions will be key factors for when California avocado growers begin harvesting. The potential for a wet winter may encourage some growers to delay picking to allow their avocados time to increase in size, which could in turn increase the crop volume.

Bay Baby Produce, a pioneer in imaginative produce offerings, is thrilled to celebrate its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter-century of creativity, growth and a commitment to providing unique and delightful individually painted and hand-decorated pumpkins.

Progressive Produce, a year-round grower, packer, and shipper of fresh produce, started in bulk citrus in 2016 and organics followed shortly after.

“Over the years, we have increased the program by adding grower partners in all California citrus regions as well as Mexico,” said Jaime Greger, senior marketing coordinator for the Los Angeles-based company.

The Kroger Co. has a new goal to advance sustainability in its fresh produce supply chain, further protecting pollinators and biodiversity. Kroger will require all of its fresh produce suppliers to use Integrated Pest Management practices for all products supplied to Kroger by 2028 or 2030, based on the grower's size. Medium- to large-sized growers will be expected to meet the goal by the end of 2028, and small-sized growers by 2030.

Mission Produce is the go-to source for fresh, organically grown avocados.

“We have mastered the art of growing, packing and ripening certified organic avocados to meet the needs of our customers all year long,” said Megan Berenbach, director of sales for the Oxnard, CA-based company. “Demand for organic avocados continues to grow, so Mission continues to invest additional resources into organic programs, pursuing innovative ways to support and develop the category.”