Index Fresh launches split brand strategy
Backed by trade advertising and specific packaging, Index Fresh Inc., based in Bloomington, CA, has launched a split brand marketing strategy this year. Moving forward, all of its California-grown avocados will be packed under the Index Fresh brand while imported avocados will be marketed under the Avoterra brand.
EPC announces third annual James and Theresa Nolan Family Foundation Scholarship
The Eastern Produce Council announced that applications are now being accepted for a $5,000 scholarship from the James and Theresa Nolan Family Foundation Scholarship.
The scholarship is open to EPC members in good standing that have been a member for at least six months preceding the date of the application. Selection is based solely on a 500-word essay on ethics; specifically, applicants need to cite an example of how they faced an ethical challenge in their life and dealt with it.
Southern Exposure social scene lights up south Florida
HOLLYWOOD, FL — Three yacht parties in 24 hours? Oh yeah — and that was even before the Southeast Produce Council Southern Exposure expo officially kicked off. While Southern Exposure is one of the industry's more power-packed business gatherings, it's also renowned for its social side.
In the Trenches: Produce managers deserve more labor in their departments
Most senior management members, supervisors and productivity directors don’t like to hear this, but I will say it anyway. Produce managers are understaffed and overworked. That’s a fact. But is anyone listening?
essential Costa Rica brand offers differentiation in marketplace
Costa Rica has released a country brand aimed at differentiating its produce in the marketplace and helping marketers communicate its values.
Sunkist's diverse varieties plentiful at height of peak citrus season
Peak citrus season is in full swing, and with it a number of Sunkist citrus varieties are at their prime. Cara Cara, Navel and Blood oranges as well as Meyer lemons are full-flavored with strong supplies and superior quality, and late-season specialties like Gold Nugget variety Mandarins and Ojai Pixie tangerines are ramping up now.
Bard Valley Date Growers flourishing with expansion
YUMA, AZ — The Medjool date industry here is thriving thanks in large part to the dominant player, Bard Valley Date Growers Association.
This grower-owned association owns its entire Medjool date supply chain, from the groves to the fruit to the packing facilities, the largest of which is Datepac LLC, located here.
State Garden offers new line of fillets and new baby lettuce variety
State Garden Inc., a leading supplier of organic and conventional tender leaf greens, spinach and celery hearts, based in Chelsea, MA, is offering a new line of organic and conventional lettuce fillets. These new products will be additions to the Olivia’s Organics and Simple Beginnings lines.
Bushmans’ introducing Mexico-Wisconsin growing program at Viva Fresh
Nogales, AZ — Visualizing a symbiotic relationship between Mexican vegetable and Wisconsin vegetable production and packing, Bushmans’, Inc., is launching a creative new business arrangement.
Coordinating the effort for the Rosholt, WI-based firm is T.J. Bauer, who works from an office here near the Mexican border. Bauer, who has worked in this industry since 1990, became Bushmans’ general manager in October 2015.