Industry feeling effect of economic slowdown
Twice as many produce companies have gone out of business owing money so far this year than in a comparable period last year, according to the records kept by The Produce Reporter Co. on firms listed in its Blue Book industry directory and rating service.
"[The years] 2006 and 2007 were average for the number of listed companies being reported to have ceased operating with obligations not fully liquidated," Ken Schultz, vice president of rating services for the Carol Stream, IL-based firm, told The Produce News.
IN THE TRENCHES: Don't get down, get going
Usually, an industry event brings out the best in people with much boasting about their great sales, new store openings, growth in the company and loads of promotional success stories. However, the scenario has changed from a braggadocio tone to a much more oppressive atmosphere.
PMA president points toward a brave new world for produce
ORLANDO, FL -- In his state-of-the-industry address at Fresh Summit 2008, Produce Marketing Association President Bryan Silbermann stretched back some 45 years to borrow inspiration from Bob Dylan's seminal song, "The Times They Are A-Changin.' "
Mr. Dylan sang in part, "Then you better start swimmin' or you'll sink like a stone, for the times they are a-changin,'" to which Mr. Silbermann added, "We're not swimming fast enough."
IPC renews successful comic book-inspired ad series
The Idaho Potato Commission's comic book capers are back again to help fight against evil and -- even worse -- lackluster produce sales.
The award-winning ad series launched last fall to rave reviews, and will return this year, according to the commission. The eight-ad campaign features an array of comic book characters including caped crusaders, superheroes, mad scientists and Old West cowboys all touting the power of stocking Idaho potatoes.
Produce industry tells FDA there's no need for federal traceability rules
WASHINGTON -- There is every incentive for the produce industry to follow the industry's new traceability guidelines, but there is no need for the federal government to mandate a new traceability system, produce trade groups said at an Oct. 16 meeting.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration held its first of two public workshops to discuss what needs to be done to enhance a tracking system during outbreaks. The second workshop in Oakland, CA, is planned for Nov. 13.
River Ranch adds to 'Garden Fresh' line
River Ranch Fresh Foods LLC, a leading processor of fresh produce based in Salinas, CA, announced the addition of Romaine Garden to its line of salad blends.
Reflecting a rapidly growing demand for Romaine lettuce, the introduction of this blend will expand the appeal and reach of the "Garden Fresh" family.
FPA set to unveil 'revolutionary' wholesale market prices project
The Fresh Produce Alliance is preparing to take the wraps off its new wholesale market prices project.
"We've been working on the project for a year-and-a-half, and we think it's a revolutionary method of collecting markets information for the horticultural sector, something that's ever been done before," Ian MacKenzie, the alliance's general manager, told The Produce News Oct. 21.
Fresh Summit draws record East Coast attendance in Orlando
ORLANDO, FL -- Produce Marketing Association's Fresh Summit International Convention & Exposition drew an East Coast record number of produce sellers and buyers -- and every link in the produce supply chain in between -- when it convened here Oct. 24-27. The event drew 17,502 attendees from 61 countries to the Orange County Convention Center.
Industry veterans tapped to help Dulcinea's expansion
As part of its plan for future growth, Dulcinea Farms, based in Ladera Ranch, CA, has reinforced its sales and operations departments with the hiring of two industry veterans.
John McGuigan, who held senior management positions at Sunkist Growers Inc., is now vice president of sales and marketing, and Frank Mejia, formerly general manager of the Southwest production unit at Del Monte Fresh Produce, is now senior manager of Dulcinea's Mexican operations.
Oppenheimer antes up for PMA FIT
The Oppenheimer Group is celebrating its past by making a commitment to its future.
The Vancouver, BC-based company, which commemorates its 150th anniversary this year, announced a $150,000 pledge to the PMA Foundation for Industry Talent. This funding supports programs designed to attract, develop and retain talent for the produce industry.