Hoxie, Seald Sweet's Desana discuss Mexican grape deal
Most people know Seald Sweet International for citrus. But the company and its global partner Univeg have made major moves in grape and tree fruit markets. Seald Sweet's Chris DeSana recently talked with Sarah Hoxie about the upcoming Mexican grape deal.
‘Watermelon Fuels Athletes’ at Cooper River Bridge Run
CHARLESTON, SC — They set up in the predawn darkness at 5 a.m. and 41 degrees. After the starter’s pistol went off at 8 a.m., they handed out 33,600 cups of watermelon chunks to a steady stream of runners and spectators at the 38th annual Cooper River Bridge Run, a 10K run and walk event held March 28. At around noon, as the last of the walkers streamed past the finish line, they gave out their last watermelon cups under signs proclaiming, “Watermelon Fuels Athletes.”
TransFresh gaining traction with blueberry solution
After much research and experimentation, TransFresh Corp., based in Salinas, CA, has found that its new Tectrol Storage Solutions for fresh blueberries has gained traction from the buyer and shipper communities, and is offering extended shelf life for blueberries.
Support of members key to SEPC success
I want to begin this column by thanking all of our members for their continued support. The Southeast Produce Council would not have enjoyed the success it has had over the years without the support of our members and continued sponsorship support. That support allows us to have great venues with record-breaking attendance at every conference and expo.
Southern Specialties Florida blueberry deal going strong
Southern Specialties, a grower, importer, processor and shipper of a variety of specialty products grown in Central America, South America, Mexico, Canada and the United States, is in the midst of a solid Florida blueberry deal that is expected to last through April.The Pompano Beach, FL-based firm started shipping Florida blueberries in early March in six-ounce clamshells. The varieties it distributes include Farthing, Flicker, Chickadee and Meadowlark.
Produce Alliance launches major rebranding effort
Produce Alliance, a produce management, procurement and consulting company represented by a network of best-in-class foodservice distributors and growers throughout North America, unveiled a new rebranding initiative at its 2015 National Conference in Charleston, SC.
More than 200 members made up of Produce Alliance’s top distributors and premium growers attended the annual meeting.
The three-day conference, which took place March 17-19 at the Belmond Charleston Place hotel, highlighted the importance of building existing relationships and strengthening partnerships.
Titan Farms first recipient of Produce Innovation Award
Titan Farms in Ridge Spring, SC, has been chosen to receive the first Bayer CropScience Produce Innovation Award, designated for a grower “whose thinking, practices and use of technology enhance the role of produce in creating better lives,” Bayer CropScience stated in a news release.
The award recognizes improved yield and quality of produce, increased accessibility of produce to a broader group of people or increased demand for produce by expanding awareness of the health benefits of fruits and vegetables, the news release added.
First South Carolina food hub hits $1 million mark in payments to growers
CHARLESTON, SC — South Carolina’s first food hub here, GrowFood Carolina, passed the $1 million mark in payment to growers in 2014, according to Sara D. Clow, general manager.
The food hub began operations in 2011 and had set a $660,000 cumulative payment-to-farmers goal for 2014, Clow told The Produce News.
GrowFood Carolina operates from a renovated warehouse in Charleston, connecting growers within a 120-mile radius to supermarkets, restaurants and foodservice institutions, serving as a wholesale logistics center for local produce.
Inaugural Viva Fresh expo a smash hit
AUSTIN, TX — Viva Fresh, a new conference and expo organized by the Texas International Produce Association that made its debut March 26-28, here, saw strong attendance and a sold-out expo floor.
Viva Fresh, dubbed the “Gateway to the Americas” show, was considered a great success by both organizers and attendees. Even Texas’ spring weather was perfectly cooperative.
Grupo Vegver looking to develop direct sales to North America
AUSTIN, TX — The Viva Fresh Produce Expo, held here March 26-28, was ideal for companies like Grupo Vegver, located in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz.
Vegver is a grower of Veracruz limes and chayote. The firm is also a sizable supplier of carrots and has a history of access to other fresh produce items.
Managing Director Felix López has been shipping a wide line of produce to Veracruz foodservice clients for several years.
As the managing director of Vegver, he is prepared to expand his reach to ship to reliable new customers in North America.