California table grapes backed by retail programs in the U.S., abroad
The California Table Grape Commission in Fresno, CA, provides retailers with a suite of opportunities to drive demand for California table grapes, which are available May through December.
In-store signage, communications with retail digital promotion teams, programs for retail dietitians and other targeted opportunities are also supported with direct-to-consumer messaging about California table grapes via online and print media as well as social media.
Grapeco anticipates higher demand as San Joaquin Valley grape harvest kicks off
The first grapes shipping from California’s San Joaquin Valley will see some overlap with the last of Mexico’s crop, but Grapeco Farms Co-owner Jared Lance said the high quality of both crops is a good sign for retail demand for the fruit from California.
California ag leader Don Smith dies at 95
Longtime California agricultural leader Don Smith, who remained active in the industry and in his farming operation until the end, died on July 3 at the age of 95.
Bland campaign highlights summer’s sweetest moments
With its 2025 campaign, Savor Summer’s Sweetest Moments, Bland Farms invites families to do more than enjoy a harvest — it encourages them to pause, connect and savor the simple joys of the season: meals shared, memories made and the unmistakable sweetness of summer.
Festival Foods to host record-breaking cherry display
Festival Foods is kicking off the peak of cherry season in a big way – literally. On July 16, the De Pere, WI, Festival Foods location will host the largest cherry display in company history: a nine-foot wide, 30-foot long, six-foot-high mountain of fresh cherries hand-picked from Pacific Northwest orchards.
IGA, Watermelon Board partnership driving in-store engagement
The Independent Grocers Alliance and the National Watermelon Promotion Board partnered to launch a robust second-half 2025 shopper marketing and retailer education campaign designed to boost watermelon awareness, drive in-store engagement and support IGA retailers in delivering fresh, family-friendly solutions to their customers.
Andrea Montagna joins Seald Sweet as co-CEO
Greenyard USA/Seald Sweet has named Andrea Montagna co-CEO. The company said the introduction of the co-CEO structure is part of a thoughtful, long-term succession plan designed to build on Seald Sweet’s rich heritage while accelerating growth and innovation across the United States.
Montagna will serve alongside current CEO Mayda Sotomayor, combining their expertise to further strengthen the company’s position as a trusted leader in fresh produce.
Record-setting season of growth for Michigan asparagus
The Michigan asparagus season concluded with decent volumes perfect for summer barbecues and grilling. To increase the bottom line, the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board developed unique marketing strategies, including retail promotions, influencer program, farm tour, recipe development and digital advertising.
Royal FloraHolland CEO temporarily steps back, CFO to assume duties
Royal FloraHolland CEO Pieter Bootsma will be temporarily unavailable due to health reasons, as he recovers from a brain haemorrhage. His condition is steadily improving, and he remains responsive and optimistic about making a full recovery.
Top Brass optimistic for 2025 California table grape season
Top Brass Produce, which handles all aspects of its table grape production, from harvesting through sales, is optimistic for this season’s crop as California’s Central Valley harvest starts.