Grower referendum affirms continuation of California Avocado Commission
The California Department of Food and Agriculture announced the results of the 2026 statewide referendum of California avocado growers, confirming that the California Avocado Commission will continue operations through 2031. By law, a continuation vote must be held every five years, requiring a majority of participating producers to vote in favor of continuation.
HLB expands drinking coconuts, strengthens global sourcing in 2026
For HLB Specialties, 2026 is shaping up as a year of measured growth and operational refinement, with continued momentum in key categories and a focus on strengthening its global supply network. One of the company’s standout success stories remains its drinking coconut program, which has expanded significantly since its launch.
In the Trenches: Labor, service conditions remain a challenge
Were you recently forced to wait in a long line at the supermarket checkout to pay for your items? How many cashiers were on duty at the time? Why is it that a store has eight to 10 checkouts and only one or two open for customers during busy hours?Want to know what is happening these days when businesses operate this way? Consumers are starting to respond by quitting those companies and moving on to those that have better services and more available checkouts.
Southern Specialties eyes growth as it stays true to longtime core mission
Southern Specialties started out in 1990 as a small operation but over the past 36 years, it has grown to become a major player in Florida’s fresh produce scene. And essential to that growth is its location in Pompano Beach and the important role the city plays in the produce industry.
Green Life Farms focuses on quality, consistency and growth in 2026
At the heart of Green Life Farms is a commitment to quality, food safety and people, a vision that begins with its founder, Flavio Martinez, and continues to guide the company’s growth across multiple regions.Based in Indio, CA, in the Coachella Valley, the grower-packer-shipper has built a reputation for delivering a wide range of produce year-round while staying rooted in the principles established by its leadership.
IFPA wraps Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference
The International Fresh Produce Association's Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference, which sold out for a fourth consecutive year, was held April 6–8 at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort in Carlsbad, CA. The conference, designed to accelerate women’s leadership and influence across the industry, is the premier leadership event for women across the global fresh produce and floral supply chain. The event’s continued growth underscores strong demand for practical leadership development and meaningful connection opportunities for women.
Surging fuel costs hit fresh produce supply chain
This is a moment of significant challenge for our industry. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is sending shockwaves through global energy and commodity markets, and the fresh produce supply chain—from farm to fork—is feeling the impact acutely. What we’re seeing:
California Walnuts launches summer promotions
California Walnuts is launching its summer campaign to position walnuts as a fresh, whole food that can be enjoyed as part of seasonal snacking and eating.
Taylor Farms launches additional veggie kits
Taylor Farms launched four new Veggie Kits expanding its lineup of fresh, easy‑to‑prepare meal solutions. As a leading global producer of ready‑to‑eat salads and healthy fresh foods, Taylor Farms continues to innovate with its Veggie Kits — delivering a quick, versatile side dish without compromising freshness or quality.
Pompano hub helps Edward L. Myrick weather difficult start to year
Few companies are as closely tied to the history and daily operation of Pompano Beach’s produce industry as Edward L. Myrick Produce, a family-run business whose legacy in the region dates back decades. With deep roots in South Florida, the company continues to rely on its strategic location and longstanding relationships to navigate what has been a challenging start to 2026.