Grapeco Farms prepares for early Mexican grape season with strong supply
As Mexican grape season approaches, Grapeco Farms is positioning itself for another strong year, backed by expanded plantings, new varieties and a continued focus on quality. Founded by industry veterans Jared Lane and Robert Cadena, the Shafter, CA -based company has built a year-round grape program through strategic partnerships in Mexico, California and South America, with Mexican production serving as a cornerstone of its business.
PRO*ACT Crop Update: Transition is upon us
We’re in the transition window. Product is shifting, crews are adjusting and markets are starting to climb. The first full week of April marks a key shift across the industry, as processors make their move back to Salinas and the spring transition gets under way. As expected, the move doesn’t come without some friction.
CMI expands American Dream program, honoring America’s 250th anniversary
As America gears up for its 250th anniversary, CMI Orchards is bringing the celebration to retail with a special edition American Dream program featuring eye-catching, limited-edition packaging and point-of sale materials designed to capture the spirit and pride of the season while inspiring shoppers.
Goody adds industry pros to sales team
Blue Banner Co.’s sales arm, Goody, has expanded its sales team with the addition of several seasoned professionals, positioning the innovative brand to better serve growers and navigate logistics with enhanced efficiency.With the start of this year’s grapefruit season, Goody welcomed Jennifer Burgess, Lorena Harun, Katharine Lopez, Tom Mosely, Joey Mazzetti, Fernando Guzman and Juan Medina.
Ippolito International announces new addition in sales department
Ippolito International hired Neftaly Vargas, account manager, to its sales team. Vargas joins the company recently from Braga Fresh, where she focused on value-added programs and supported customer relations and account growth. Prior to that, Vargas’ work experience includes tenure at Tanimura & Antle, initially in the finance area then moving into foodservice and retail sales roles.
Stemilt to grow ultra-late season KIR cherries
Stemilt Growers, Licenses for Fruits and Plants and Brandt’s Fruit Trees have signed a commercial agreement to grow the KIR series of cherries, a premium selection of late and ultra-late, dark-sweet and blush cherries bred in Germany. This partnership brings together three multigeneration, family-owned-and-operated organizations with a shared passion for innovation in tree fruit and a commitment to delivering exceptional fruit to consumers.
Kroger expands Flashfood partnership
Flashfood is now available at all 100-plus Kroger stores in the Mid-Atlantic division. Flashfood’s platform is addressing surplus food waste in Kroger stores while making fresh, affordable groceries accessible to more shoppers across the Southeast.Since launching in 16 Richmond-area Kroger stores last summer, Flashfood has helped Kroger shoppers save nearly $700,000 on fresh groceries, while keeping over 290,000 pounds of food out of landfills. This expansion comes as demand grows for new ways to stretch grocery budgets.
Dayka & Hackett provides grapes 365 days a year
At Dayka & Hackett, there’s excitement all year long, but spring marks a particularly special transition. “As we move from sourcing grapes in the Southern Hemisphere to the vibrant vineyards of Mexico, a new season of opportunity begins,” said Stephen Fink, vice president of sales and marketing for the Ventura, CA-based company. “During this time, we proudly showcase best-in-class grapes, partnering with exceptional growers in Sonora and Guaymas to deliver outstanding quality and flavor.”
Continental Floral Greens expands sales team with two new hires and a well-earned promotion
Continental Floral Greens, a family-owned grower of premium American-grown foliage and specialty cut floral, is pleased to announce the addition of two experienced sales professionals, Kate Dodde and Klair McDermott, to its mass market sales team, as well as the promotion of Lucia Narciso to wholesale sales manager.These announcements reflect CFG’s continued investment in building an exceptional, experienced team to support its customers and drive growth across all channels.
Tops expands access to fresh groceries
Tops Friendly Markets customers can now use SNAP/EBT benefits to purchase groceries for delivery through DoorDash, expanding access to fresh, nutritious and affordable food.This initiative is part of Tops’ broader commitment to increasing food access and advancing its omnichannel strategy — integrating in-store, online and delivery experiences, to better serve customers in a rapidly evolving retail landscape.