Produce industry connects at TIPA's 11th annual Viva Fresh Expo
SAN ANTONIO, TX — The Texas International Produce Association's 11th annual Viva Fresh Expo included expanded networking opportunities such as the Viva Fresh Open across two golf courses at the TPC San Antonio, as well as the Second Annual Viva Fresh Pickleball Tournament and the first ever Viva Fresh Wine Tasting. The opening reception was held at the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort & Spa. The reception featured food sampling stations and live entertainment, providing a festive setting for Viva Fresh attendees.
Ocean Mist Farms to showcase Steam & Season line, fresh-cut items at CPMA
Ocean Mist Farms is looking forward to the Canadian Produce Marketing Association Convention & Expo, where the company looks forward to connecting with its Canadian partners and sharing its portfolio of premium fresh vegetable commodities.“Canada continues to be an important market for Ocean Mist Farms, and we always appreciate the opportunity to connect directly with our valued retail partners at this event,” said Ocean Mist Farms President and CEO Chris Drew.
Alexandra Farms introduces eight new varieties, expanding its collection of garden roses and dahlias
Alexandra Farms introduced eight garden roses and dahlias to its fresh-cut flower collections. "We have so many innovations coming out for 2026," said Jose R. Azout, president of Alexandra Farms. "Garden roses that expand the category and bring more color palettes and textures to designers and florists for their arrangements."This year's introductions are Antonia Gardens, Fatima Gardens, Pimpinela, Pink X-pression, Rosa's Amazing Tea Rose, Princess Alina, Princess Shiro (White) Spr and Cryfield Harmony.
Pure Flavor to showcase Cherry Picked Medley, brand refresh at CPMA 2026
Pure Flavor will be at the 2026 CPMA Convention and Trade Show in booth No. 1111, April 28–30, bringing an exciting product lineup built around flavor, consistency and a more connected in-store experience. From premium snacking tomatoes to a refreshed brand identity, the company’s presence reflects a clear direction shaped by what Canadian consumers and retailers are asking for today.
Rice Fruit breaks ground on new storage facility
Rice Fruit Co. announced the groundbreaking of a new controlled atmosphere storage facility at its Gardners location in Adams County, PA. The project is partially funded through a $1.25 million grant awarded by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure program.
USDA restricts seven PACA violators
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has imposed sanctions on seven 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 from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without USDA approval.The following businesses and individuals are currently restricted from operating in the produce industry:
PennRose Farms names president of Mexican growing operations
PennRose has named Luis Corella president of Mexican growing operations, strengthening the company's leadership as it continues to expand across Mexico and North America.Corella brings extensive experience across retail, sales and grower relations. He began his career as a retail buyer with Safeway before moving into sales with Fresno-based grower-shippers, ultimately rising to president Baloian Mexico. In that role, he drove growth, expanded distribution networks and built strong strategic partnerships.
BJ’s expands into Texas
BJ’s Wholesale Club launched its Texas operations with the Forney club’s grand opening set for Friday, April 24. The company plans to open three more Texas clubs — in Waxahachie, Southwest Fort Worth and Grand Prairie — in the coming weeks.
PhilaPort names new CEO
Rich Lazer has been selected as PhilaPort's next executive director and CEO, ushering in a new chapter for one of America’s fastest-growing ports. Lazer will succeed Jeff Theobald, who announced his retirement in December after a decade of transformative leadership. Lazer is expected to assume the role on June 1.
Bee Sweet Citrus adds Rosy Red Valencias to citrus lineup
Rosy Red Valencias, an exciting new citrus variety native to California’s Central Valley, will be available at Bee Sweet Citrus later this spring. Discovered in 2009 by Bee Sweet Citrus grower Nancy Lange, this variety is an excellent choice for customers seeking unique produce to enhance their summer selection.