FreshXperts names new chairman, owner, associates
FreshXperts, a leading consulting group for the fresh industry, has added three new team members and appointed a new chairman. Jonathan Raduns has joined the organization as an owner, and Michael Gretz and David Pennington have joined as associates. Anthony Totta, a founding member of FreshXperts and former vice chairman, was named chairman of the board of directors, replacing Ron Pelger.
NMB launches its 2015 marketing campaign: Always Summer
The National Mango Board is gearing up to launch its 2015 marketing campaign, which will reinforce mango nutritional and educational messages to U.S. consumers as well as the fruit’s year-round availability. The overall theme in 2015 is Always Summer, and the NMB will bring the spirit of summer to consumers through programs and events that incorporate soccer, snacks and salsa.
Bi-Lo Holdings names president and CEO
Bi-Lo Holdings, parent company of BI-LO, Harveys and Winn-Dixie grocery stores, announced that Ian McLeod has been appointed president and chief executive officer, effective March 2. McLeod succeeds Randall Onstead, who will remain in place through March 2 to ensure a smooth transition.
Specialty citrus reaching peak for Sunkist
With the California winter in progress, many specialty citrus varieties, including pummelos, Cara Cara Navels and Minneolas, are in peak season.
Business is solid as a rock for Detroit-based Rocky Produce
With new additions to its sales staff, exceptionally high food-safety scores and increased optimism about the economy, things are only looking up for Detroit-based Rocky Produce.
“A lot of people weren’t so sure how things were going to shake out a few years back,” said Dominic Russo, buyer and sales associate for Rocky Produce, located on the Detroit Produce Terminal.
“But now that the city of Detroit is out of bankruptcy, its economy is really strong. It’s roaring as far as new developments go, and it looks very promising. It’s the hot spot in the country right now.”
R.A.M. Produce excited about ‘resurgence’ of Detroit
R.A.M. Produce Distributors LLC, located on the Detroit Produce Terminal Market since 1987, is looking forward to another bright year ahead, especially now that the city of Detroit has officially emerged from bankruptcy, according to Michael Badalament, sales associate for the company.
“Right now, Detroit in its own way is going through a certain form of renaissance,” he told The Produce News on Jan. 12. “There’s a resurgence, a spirit and an optimism in this city that’s not been present for a long time.”
Steven Garza takes on sales role at Andrew Smith Co.
Andrew Smith Co. recently announced Steven Garza as the newest member of its sales division.
Garza comes to the position having previously served in sales support, logistics, and marketing with Andrew Smith Co. affiliate, Colorful Harvest.
Litehouse Inc. now entirely employee-owned
Litehouse Inc. announced that 100 percent of the company's stock has been sold to its employees through an employee stock ownership plan. The move continues the opportunity for all current and future employees to become owners of this industry-leading brand, which has been family owned for over 50 years.
Litehouse first formed an ESOP plan in 2006, selling 30 percent of the company as a commitment to its employees and their communities. The move to 100 percent ESOP ensures continued local ownership.
To-Jo repeats success at Pennsylvania Farm Show
To-Jo Mushrooms has repeated victory at the 2015 Pennsylvania Farm Show held in Harrisburg, PA, winning Best Overall Mushroom Display. To-Jo finished first in seven mushroom categories, including best Mushroom Centerpiece, best eight-ounce Portabella Caps and best 2.75-inch Large White Mushrooms to help seal the victory.
WP Rawl expands greens production lines
WP Rawl is upgrading its greens production lines at its Pelion, SC, headquarters. The updates will increase the company’s capacity — almost doubling its current capabilities.
As the company prides itself with high food-safety standards, one of the compelling reasons for initiating the update was continued excellence in compliance with the latest standards. With the expansion also comes more business growth potential and higher efficiencies overall.