Bayer CropScience continues integration of Biologics unit
ANAHEIM, CA — In August, Bayer CropScience completed its purchase of AgraQuest, Inc., a global supplier of innovative biological pest management solutions, and four months later the integration of that company is progressing well, which should result in more crop-protection tools in the not-so-distant future for the specialty crop industry.
The Retail View: Study shows berries will continue to prosper
Rabobank, which is a major player in agricultural lending, has forecast that the current booming trend for berry sales in the United States will continue at a 7 percent annual growth rate over the next three years. And that view has support within the industry.
On Nov. 1, Rabobank’s Food and Agribusiness Research and Advisory group released a report, titled “The U.S. Fresh Berry Boom — Who Will Profit from the Growth?”
Biochemist wins SAF award
Edward C. Sisler, a professor of biochemistry at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC, whose research is credited with revolutionizing the handling and distribution of fresh-cut flowers, was honored Sept. 22 by the Society of American Florists with its Alex Laurie Award for floriculture research and education.
Chuck Olsen citrus program includes Navels, Minneolas, Mandarins
The Chuck Olsen Co. in Visalia, CA, has a diverse citrus program consisting of shipping deals with several growers, according to Vice President Jeff Olsen.
“We are running lemons right now out of District Three [the southern desert],” he said Oct. 18. “We will have lemons out of there probably through March, and then District 1 [coastal area] fruit that will take us into the summer. Right now quality is excellent out of the desert. It is one of the best years in years as far as overall quality is concerned.”
Great Lakes debuts Yummy Fruit Bus packaging for dried apricots
Observing that consumption of dried apricots is up among young people in school cafeterias, Great Lakes International Trading Inc. in Traverse City, MI, recognized opportunities for marketing its imported Turkish dried apricots through new packaging with an appeal to kids. The result is a new packaging concept.
Great Lakes Sales Manager John Battle explained in an interview with The Produce News how the new concept came about.
National Mango Board announces Mango Retailer of the Year
The National Mango Board honored four retailers for being the “best of the best” in mango retailing and providing outstanding support and promotion for mangos. The winners were announced at the NMB’s Mango Industry Reception Oct. 27 during the Produce Marketing Association's Fresh Summit.
Through this new program in 2012, the NMB identified four mango model retailers from across the country, and selected one of these as the Mango Retailer of the Year.
Market Fresh Produce introduces new line of specialty potatoes
Market Fresh Produce, revealed its new line of gourmet specialty potato products at the Produce Marketing Association’s Fresh Summit in Anaheim, CA. Red and gold potatoes, including fingerlings as well as “B” and “C” size, will be offered in 24-ounce fresh-pack poly mesh bags, along with microwave food-safe plastic bags and 20-pound bulk cartons.
Irving Louis (Lou) Sherman, dead at 98
Irving Louis (Lou) Sherman died of natural causes at age 98 Oct. 17 at his home in Rosedale, NY. Mr. Sherman spent his approximate 75-year career servicing the New York City produce industry as executive director of the New York Produce Trade Association.
Jo Ann Taylor, office manager for the association worked for Mr. Sherman for 17 years.
Michigan Floral Foundation inducts Ecker-Blatchford into organization’s hall of fame
The Michigan Floral Foundation inducted Bobbi Ecker-Blatchford of Florapros in Chicago into its hall of fame on Oct. 11. She was cited as an outstanding mentor and inspiration to floral industry members at ceremonies in the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids, MI.