Initiated in 1992, the Landscape Design Awards program for  recognizes design projects that are exemplary in use of herbaceous perennials to help create balanced and beautiful landscapes. The “after market” applications of growers’ products and the design, installation, and maintenance of plants in gardens and natural settings are of special interest to the Perennial Plant Association. Both experienced and novice designers are invited to participate.

Instacart, the leading grocery technology company in North America, released the first-ever Instacart Economic Impact Report, quantifying the company’s economic impact across all four sides of the Instacart marketplace — customers, shoppers, retailers and brands.

Urapa Produce, a grower-packer-shipper of Mexican tropicals, announced its acquisition of Bland Distribution Services. This strategic move marks a significant milestone for Urapa Produce as it expands its capabilities and strengthens its position in the market.

Baldor Specialty Foods announced several additional strategic hires and structural changes aimed at enhancing customer service, achieving future goals, and ensuring continued growth and success.

The company reported:

In some ways it is difficult to believe that Raquel Espinoza has been working in the produce industry for three decades. Her youthful exuberance and enthusiasm belie the fact that it was a long climb up the ladder to where she is today.

“I was exposed to the produce industry early on as my father worked for a Customs house, but I am a first-generation produce person,” she said. “My first job was with Meyer Tomato and I really enjoyed it and remained there for 12 years before moving on to a few different companies, and eventually to opening Produce House nine years ago.”

Susan Tavilla grew up in a Boston produce family with deep roots dating back many decades, but the old school nature of the Sicilian patriarch didn’t see a place for women in the family business.

“We are Sicilian and it was the belief that the men worked and the women stayed home,” said Susan as she ironically plans for the end of a successful and long career at P. Tavilla Co., one of the mainstays at the New England Produce Center.