MAC’s new logo to assist marketing programs for 2013
The Michigan Apple Committee, a grower-funded nonprofit organization devoted to encouraging the consumption of Michigan apples, kicks off the 2013 harvest season with a fresh new look to its logo design. The new logo will be incorporated into packaging and signage, as well as online and in other communication materials.
Ready Pac keeping up with consumer label perceptions
The word ‘transparency’ has undergone a substantial transformation in recent years. Previously associated with being one-dimensional or thinly veiled, possessing transparency now has more positive connotations.
Kowalski Markets founder dies in accident
James (Jim) Kowalski, co-founder of Kowalski Markets, died in an accident Sept. 5 while on a fishing trip in Ontario. He was 67.
Customers as well as current and former employees spoke of Mr. Kowalski’s kindness, one noting that he was more of a father than a boss.
Import-export shipping delays on agenda of upcoming WPPC
WASHINGTON — All eyes may be on the Food & Drug Administration’s food-safety rules, but the United Fresh Produce Association is also keeping close tabs on problems that members may be experiencing in moving fresh produce through border crossings and ports, another food-safety topic on the agenda at this month’s Washington Public Policy Conference.
Demographics hold key to future of apple and other marketers
CHICAGO — The U.S. apple industry has facts reinforcing the strength of its future.
This is based on demographic information showing that oncoming U.S. population growth will be coming from a health-conscious Generation Y as well as immigrant populations. All of these groups are concerned with eating healthy produce, such as apples.
Key indicators are for food marketers if they study and anticipate marketing changes, according to demographer Ken Gronbach of KGC Direct, based in Haddam, CT.
NOFA staying strongly tuned into First Proposed FDA Food Safety Rules continuum
The Northeast Organic Farming Association is a non-profit organization of over 5,000 farmers, gardeners, landscape professionals and consumers working to promote healthy food, organic farming practices and a cleaner environment.
NOFA has chapters in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont.
Smith Packing comes through for customers when supplies are tight
With its warm days and cool nights, Maine is a Utopia for summer broccoli production. But early July was unusually warm and wet, making the start of the season a challenge for Smith Packing Inc., a leading broccoli grower-shipper based in Presque Isle, ME.
In fact, broccoli production across the nation in early summer was limited, leading to some tight supplies and a very strong market in the beginning of the deal.
Foodservice Forum: Fresh organic produce goes directly from Lakeside Organic Gardens to the owner’s California Grill kitchen
The California Grill of the Pajaro Valley Restaurant, located at the Freedom Centre in Freedom, CA, has its own very special niche that serves it and its patrons well. The popular restaurant is owned by Dick Peixoto, who also owns Lakeside Organic Gardens, headquartered in Watsonville, CA. His daughter, Ashley Peixoto is co-owner and the restaurant manager.
McAleavey family working together to market ‘terrific’ New York apple crop
As marketing agent for the New York Apple Association, John McAleavey coordinates sales and merchandising activities for the association from New England down through the mid-Atlantic region.
And after more than 40 years working in this capacity, he is getting some welcome assistance from his son, John Jr., and his daughter, Susan.
New apple crop second largest in Washington's history
Estimates released by Washington's apple industry in August indicate that the 2013-14 apple crop will be the second largest in the state's history. Charles Pomianek, director of the Wenatchee Valley Traffic Association, said the statewide total is placed at 119.8 million boxes, down 10 million boxes from last year's record-setting season.
"On Aug. 1, we had 10 million boxes left on the storage crop," he said. From a movement standpoint, he said there will be an orderly transition between this balance and volume moving into the pipeline during the new season.