Wada Farms completes colored potato line, launches mini spud items
Wada Farms Potatoes Inc. in Pingree, ID, whose potatoes are marketed by Wada Farms Marketing Group LLC in Idaho Falls, ID, has been historically known primarily as a russet potato grower and shipper. However, lately the company has been increasing its production of an assortment of non-russet potato varieties such as reds, yellows and mini-potatoes.
Wada Farms Marketing also markets potatoes exclusively for several other packingshed around the state.
Ontario Produce expecting fewer storage onions
Summer heat is expected to cause some reduction in onion sizing for Ontario Produce, headquartered in Ontario, OR. Sales Manager Bob Komoto said weather presented its own set of challenges during 2012. “Early in the season after planting, there was hail and wind that thinned several fields and force some replanting,” he told The Produce News on Sept. 4. “The early part of summer was ideal. But in the latter part of July and early August we had seven to 10 days of over 100-degree weather. That aged the crop and probably will cause some size reductions.”
Chelan Fresh hires Robyn Stevenson
Chelan Fresh Marketing hired ROBYN STEVENSON as quality-assurance inspector in 2011 and recently promoted her to production analyst-scheduler.
In her position as production analyst-scheduler, Ms. Stevenson does all the apple-packing schedules for Chelan Fruit.
Liberty Fruit's annual golf tournament raises $480,000 for charity
Liberty Fruit donated $350,000 to Children's Mercy Hospital & Clinics following its 13th annual golf tournament, held Sept. 21. Pictured at the award presentation were Dr.
U.S. sweet potato crop looks to be in good shape for coming year
Charles Walker, executive secretary of the U.S. Sweet Potato Council, headquartered in Columbia, SC, told The Produce News that sweet potato acreage in the United States appears to be down a little this year, but not by much.
Industry professional Don Harris joins FreshXperts
Don Harris has joined FreshXperts, a produce consulting group, as its newest associate, according to a Sept. 26 press release. Mr. Harris, an industry professional with 40 years of experience, will provide FreshXperts' clients with expertise in the areas of category development and management, buying strategies, training and organic operations.
FFVA names Canada’s Loblaw Merchandiser of the Year for its support of Florida product
The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association presented its Merchandiser of the Year Award to Loblaw Cos. of Canada at the 69th annual FFVA convention held Sept. 18-21 in Naples, FL.
Aurora Products introduces new single-servings product line
Aurora Products Inc. in Stratford, CT, has introduced several new consumer packages over the last year, according to Paul Bellacero, a salesman for the company.
“I think top on our list is our single-serve bags,” Mr. Bellacero told The Produce News on Aug. 29. “These are small individual bags that you can put in lunch boxes or in a purse. They are between 1.35- ounces and 1.5-ounces.”
James Buren Hook, president of V.B. Hook Inc., dies at 85
James Buren (Jimmy) Hook, president of V.B. Hook Inc., a wholesale produce company at the South Carolina State Farmers Market, died Sept. 14 following a two-year battle with numerous health issues, according to a statement issued by the company. He was 85.
Ocean Spray looks to extend cranberry season, educate consumers
With the annual cranberry harvest kicking off in mid-September, Ocean Spray has geared up to move a crop that mirrors last season’s strong production. The grower-owned cooperative is implementing new programs to extend the fresh cranberry season through the Christmas holiday. Additionally, Ocean Spray has worked hard to meet the needs of its customers by improving keeping-quality techniques and focusing on later varieties.