In a stunning admission in bankruptcy court in December, an attorney for Prima Wawona announced that the company was not able to receive a sufficient bid for its business through an auction process and would be liquidating its assets. In a companion move, several sources have reported that the company gave its nearly 6,000 employees 60-day termination notices, which is required by California law to continue with the closure of the operation.

Steve Clement, the CEO of Sage Fruit Co., will assume the position of PNW Tree Fruit’s new CEO. PNW Tree Fruit owns approximately 6,000 acres of tree fruit as well as Legacy Fruit Packers (a Sage packer since 1999), Chelan Fruit (a Sage packer since 2022) and Manson Fruit. In addition to his new role at PNW Tree Fruit, Clement will become the chairman of the board of Sage Fruit. In this capacity, he will collaborate with Nicole Gordy, the new CEO of Sage Fruit, and continue to guide the company’s strategic direction.

Southern Specialties Inc. is excited that Carlos Solf, vice president of procurement, has assumed the role of PAIA co-chairman East Coast for 2024-25. The West Coast co-chairman is Craig Rolandelli of JMB.

Solf, a native of Peru, joined Southern Specialties 22 years ago after earning his masters degree from the University of Notre Dame. Under his stewardship Southern Specialties’ asparagus program has grown to become among the largest in the nation.

Pantone recently announced its Pantone Color of the Year for 2024 - Peach Fuzz. Acknowledging the importance of connection and kindness, a warm and soft hue of color can bring abundance and newness with comfort and gentleness. 

Creative agency Freshmade recently completed new website designs for two modern produce companies, Fowler Packing and Always Fresh. The new websites strategically communicate each brand's unique story and values through engaging content produced entirely in-house by Freshmade.

Stop & Shop is increasing support for its Feed it Forward charitable giving initiatives with some help from Marty the Robot and Badger Technologies, a product division of Jabil. Marty’s presence in a large majority of Stop & Shop stores strengthens operational efficiencies and helps Stop & Shop serve those in need.