PRO*ACT Crop Update: Strawberry production a concern
A series of cold low-pressure systems is once again set to move through California, northern Mexico and southwestern Arizona this week. These systems will bring rain, strong winds and cooler temperatures to these regions into early next week. Central and Southern California will take the brunt of these systems with less rain expected across the desert regions. This may hinder some harvests in the region with muddy conditions depending on how much rain is received.
Sights and sounds from SEPC Southern Exposure 2025
ORLANDO, FL — The Southeast Produce Council welcomed the fresh produce industry to the Orlando World Center Marriott March 6-8 for its flagship event, Southern Exposure 2025, where attendees enjoyed a wide array of educational and social activities while celebrating the significance of family meals and the importance of eating together.
Taylor Farms named most-trusted salad kit brand
Taylor Farms has been honored as Canada’s Most Trusted Salad Kit brand in the 2025 BrandSpark Most Trusted Awards. This prestigious recognition reflects consumers’ deep confidence in Taylor Farms’ products and the company’s consistent dedication to quality across its entire salad kit line from beloved classics like Sweet Kale to newer favorites like the Mini Chopped Salad Kits.
JOH welcomes clients, friends at SEPC Southern Exposure reception
ORLANDO, FL – JOH, a leading independent food broker based in Billerica, MA, is fond of showing appreciation for its clients and its many key vendors and suppliers that contribute to its success.
Kroger adds new unit to accelerate online growth
The Kroger Co. announced the creation of a new eCommerce business unit, which aligns the teams contributing to every aspect of the online customer experience. Yael Cosset, Kroger's senior vice president and chief information officer, will lead this function as executive vice president and chief digital officer, effective immediately.
As chief digital officer, Cosset will continue to oversee technology and data for the company and expand his responsibilities to include the new eCommerce unit.
RPE Canada to deliver locally grown potatoes with help of partners
Canadian-grown potatoes, harvested by Canadians for Canadians, are at the heart of RPE Canada’s commitment to the market. As an international leader in the potato industry, RPE Canada said it is proud to work alongside Canadian farmers to deliver fresh, high-quality potatoes to retailers nationwide. With deep roots in farming, RPE Canada’s grower-first approach ensures that Canadian consumers have access to the best locally grown potatoes, while retailers benefit from a trusted, year-round supply.
Arctic apples debuts new mascot with kid-friendly packaging
Okanagan Specialty Fruits launched a vibrant redesign of its Arctic apple two-ounce packaging, now featuring bold, playful colors and its brand-new mascot, Artie.
USDA restricts PACA violators in four states
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has imposed sanctions on four produce businesses for failing to meet contractual obligations to the sellers of produce they purchased and failing to pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. These sanctions include suspending the businesses’ PACA licenses and barring the principal operators of the businesses from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without approval from USDA.
The following businesses and individuals are currently restricted from operating in the produce industry:
SEPC Southern Roots flips for Dominique Dawes
Gold medal winning gymnast Dominique Dawes was the featured speaker at SEPC’s Southern Roots luncheon Friday afternoon, March 7 at Southern Exposure. In line with SEPC’s theme of family, Dawes talked about failure and that challenges are easier to overcome when you have a strong community behind you.