Market Minute: Bell peppers plentiful for promotion
There’s some positive news in the produce industry. Although we’ve faced tight markets, rising trucking costs driven by higher diesel prices and weather challenges that cut crop yields, things are beginning to stabilize. As May transitions into summer, warmer temperatures are helping crops return to normal growth patterns. In several regions, supply volumes are slowly improving, though some areas remain limited. With favorable weather, production progress should continue in the coming weeks.
Jeff Mendelsohn joins Church Bros. as foodservice sales director
Church Bros. Farms has named Jeff Mendelsohn as director of foodservice sales, further strengthening the company’s leadership team and strategic focus on foodservice distribution and national accounts.In his new role, Mendelsohn will focus on supporting Church Bros.’ broadline distributor business. He will also help lead the company’s regional sales team and support the continued growth of national account relationships.
Keystone prepares for a strong Walla Walla sweet onion season
Keystone Fruit Marketing, a division of Progressive Produce, is gearing up for an early June start for the Walla Walla sweet onion season.Grown in a unique region and cultivated by third-generation growers, Walla Walla sweet onions are known for their exceptional sweetness and consistent quality.
Collotti & Sons focuses on customer relationships
After a somewhat difficult start to the year, Collotti & Sons Inc. is looking ahead to improved business conditions as the spring season unfolds, relying on its long-standing customer relationships and steady approach to navigate ongoing challenges.
BJ's continues Texas expansion
Last month BJ’s Wholesale Club opened its first club in Texas, and now the company is up to four locations in the state. After the retailer's Forney store opened April 24, it followed up with openings in Fort Worth and Waxahachie on May 8, and now BJ's will open in Grand Prairie on May 15.Headquartered in Marlborough, MA, the company currently operates 266 clubs in 22 states.
Moonlight's Ben Clay celebrates 30 years of leadership and growth
Moonlight Cos. recognized Ben Clay, a founding member of its sales team, as he marks 30 years with the company. During that time, the California stone fruit industry transformed from a market of over 200 shippers into a category dominated by a small number of scaled operators, with Moonlight emerging as a leading supplier.
Western Growers' $1.5M partnership to help members evaluate agtech solutions
Western Growers unveiled the details behind its three-year, $1.5 million partnership with on-farm agtech robotics innovation center Reservoir Farms, a commitment that gives WG members and affiliated startups exclusive access and opportunities for robotics field trials.
M. Levin & Co. marks 120 years with focus on growth and adaptation
As M. Levin & Co. Inc. celebrates its 120th anniversary in 2026, the Philadelphia-based distributor is balancing its long-standing legacy with a forward-looking strategy centered on growth, innovation and adapting to evolving market conditions.
Rare Monstera plants arrive at Publix
For a limited time, Publix is offering plant lovers a rare opportunity to bring home highly sought-after Monstera varieties, available at select stores across Alabama, Florida and Georgia.
In the Trenches: Rising fuel prices driving up trucking rates and produce costs
As diesel prices continue to soar, it was inevitable that freight charges and produce department prices would soon feel the impact. Produce directors are now expressing concern that already-slim profit margins will face even greater obstacles as costs climb. Increasing retail prices amid strained consumer food budgets could further limit spending and change shopping habits.