Dollar General introducing AI-powered in-store audio network
Dollar General plans to roll out an enhanced, AI-enabled in-store audio network across approximately 6,000 stores in 48 states. Through a new partnership with QSIC, Dollar General will deliver more relevant, localized and measurable audio experiences to customers while providing brand partners with accountable, data-driven advertising across one of the nation’s most expansive retail footprints.
Driscoll’s names Ambassador Darci Vetter as VP of public affairs
Ambassador Darci Vetter has joined Driscoll’s as vice president of public affairs. Based in the Washington, DC, area, Vetter will report to CEO Soren Bjorn and join the office of the CEO, supporting enterprise-wide alignment on governmental affairs across Driscoll’s global regions.
Fertilizer now too expensive for vast majority of growers
An overwhelming majority of America’s farmers who responded to a nationwide survey say they cannot afford to purchase enough fertilizer to get them through the year, according to American Farm Bureau Federation, which conducted the survey and published results today.More than 5,700 farmers, from all 50 states and Puerto Rico — both Farm Bureau members and non-members — took the survey. Conducted April 3-11, the survey shows 70 percent of respondents say fertilizer is so expensive that they will not be able to buy all the fertilizer they need.
Continental Fresh brings purpose-driven mangos to Viva Fresh 2026
This April marks the seventh season of Continental Fresh’s Water For All branded mango program, a milestone that reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to pairing high-quality produce with meaningful impact. Inspired by the vision of CEO Albert Perez, the corporate social responsibility initiative donates a percentage of proceeds from every branded box of mango sold to support clean water projects in Latin America, communities that are often closely connected to the agricultural supply chain that makes the program possible.
Ventura Fresh launches Chico Brand backed by legacy, purpose and growth
For Ventura Fresh Produce LLC, the goal is not simply to sell product, it is to build a brand rooted in legacy, values and long-term relationships.Launched in early 2026, Ventura Fresh Produce LLC was founded by partners Javier Torres, Salvador Macías and Rob Ybarra, each bringing deep, generational ties to the produce industry. Together, they have aligned around a shared philosophy that guides every aspect of the business.
Sobeys parent company acquires Québec retailer
Empire Co. Ltd. and its wholly owned subsidiary Sobeys Inc. entered into an agreement to acquire Mayrand Food Group Inc., a long‑established Québec food retailer operating four large‑format locations across the greater Montréal area.The transaction is being completed pursuant to a court‑approved process and remains subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of court-approval and required regulatory approvals. The transaction is expected to close in first quarter of fiscal 2027.
CPMA announces new board of directors
The Canadian Produce Marketing Association held its 2026 Annual General Meeting virtually last week, bringing members together to reflect on a year marked by strong governance, member engagement and meaningful advocacy outcomes for Canada’s fresh produce sector.
Offshoot Brands names VP of sales and operations
Offshoot Brands announced the appointment of Jenna Schulte as vice president of sales and operations.In this newly created role, Schulte will lead the integration of sales strategy and operational execution across the organization, supporting the company’s continued expansion while strengthening customer partnerships and internal capabilities.
Viva Fresh gives Exp. Group platform to showcase growth in Texas
At the Texas International Produce Association’s Viva Fresh expo, Exp. Group will be showcasing dozens of its Rosita brand fruits and vegetables grown in Mexico, as well as an expansion in South Texas.The North Bergen, NJ-based company will be focusing on big news for its Texas division: a fast-approaching move to a new facility in Pharr. Business at the current facility, which opened in September 2023 in McAllen, rapidly outgrew the space, said Anthony Serafino, Exp. Group president.