Sobeys CEO, president to retire
Michael Medline, president and CEO of Sobeys and parent company Empire Co. Ltd., will retire in May 2026, allowing the board of directors to conduct a thorough internal and external search for his replacement. As part of its succession planning process, the board has created a special committee to oversee the identification and selection of the company's next CEO.
Bruce Hinchman joins forces with The Estes Ranch
Industry veteran Bruce Hinchman, former sales manager at M&R Co., has partnered with The Estes Ranch and will focus on expanding the reach and visibility of the company’s premium cherries and hard squash across key markets.
Mexican avocado industry reveals new path to sustainability
The Avocado Institute of Mexico launched its Path to Sustainability, a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing environmental stewardship in the avocado landscape in Mexico.
FFVA seeing strong spring sweet corn season
The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association is pleased with what it’s seeing from its growers this year, especially its sweet corn.
“Florida has excellent quality this season with plenty of promotable volume for the rest of the spring season,” said Tori Rumenik, director of commodity services and supply chain for the FFVA.
In the Trenches: Don’t blame produce managers for all the shrink
According to various industry reports, the national average for shrink among supermarkets is in the area of 2.7 percent of sales — for all departments. Produce is 16 percent of that total shrink. The produce shrink waste is from 4 to 8 percent of the department sales.
Giant raises $1.2M to fight student food insecurity
The Giant Co.'s Feeding School Kids initiative, in partnership with its customers, raised more than $1.2 million to address food insecurity throughout local public school districts in the communities it serves.
Florida Dept. of Ag champions Fresh From Florida
Fresh From Florida brand recognition continues to grow with nearly 1.2 million followers across its social media platforms. The advertising campaign drives consumers to FreshFromFlorida.com to learn what Florida products are in season and explore hundreds of delicious recipes featuring Florida-grown products.
Alpine Fresh kicks off organic Sweet Karoline blackberry season
Harvesting is under way for Alpine Fresh LLC's Sweet Karoline blackberries, and the first shipments crossed from Mexico earlier this month. While the conventional Sweet Karoline blackberry season has already been in motion, the organic program has now begun, promising the same exceptional quality and flavor customers have come to expect.
The organic Sweet Karoline blackberries are marketed under Alpine’s Hippie Organics brand, adding to its vibrant lineup of premium organic produce.
Washington Apple Education Foundation names new board chairman
Tyler Price has been elected chairman of the Washington Apple Education Foundation board of directors. Price was elected at the foundation’s annual meeting held April 24 at Central Washington University.
Industry Viewpoint: Empowering health professionals to drive demand
Today, poor diet is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. In the U.S., nine out of 10 adults still don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables, despite knowing the benefits. This shortfall isn’t just a statistic — it’s a call to action. At The Foundation for Fresh Produce, we believe fruits and vegetables are among the most powerful tools we have to improve health outcomes. More than a commodity, they’re a solution to some of our most pressing health challenges. And our industry is uniquely positioned to turn that potential into impact.