Dave Masser named chairman of Potatoes USA
Dave Masser, president and CEO of Masser Family of Cos. and former Fresh Solutions Network chairman, has been elected by Potatoes USA as chairman. Potatoes USA serves as the national marketing and research organization representing U.S. potato growers and importers, supporting demand-building initiatives, consumer education, nutrition research and industry development.
Superfresh blueberry volume projected up 65 percent
Superfresh Growers is preparing for a larger Northwest blueberry crop in 2026, with the season expected to begin earlier than usual and volumes significantly above last year. The company anticipates the first shipments from its Norris Farms program around June 8, roughly seven to 10 days ahead of the historical average. Warmer conditions in winter and spring accelerated crop development throughout much of the region. Overall blueberry volume is projected to increase 26 percent compared to last season, with organic production expected to rise approximately 65 percent.
Solid Peruvian avocado crop expected
In late May, ocean liners loaded with Peruvian avocados were steaming toward the United States with significant supplies expected by the end of the month as production moves toward its peak summer shipping months.
Trendspotting: National brands vs. private label in fresh departments
It is no breaking news that the biggest differentiator a supermarket has is its fresh departments — especially produce. However, the way customers shop these categories, specifically how it relates to national brand and private label purchases, may be changing.
USDA cites Florida company for PACA violations
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has imposed sanctions on National Produce & Farm Products LLC. The company, operating from Florida, failed to make prompt payment to two produce sellers in the amount of $152,035 for produce that it purchased, received and accepted in interstate and foreign commerce from January 2024 to April 2024, in violation of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act.
CMI kicks off cherry season with optimism, fresh branding
Cherry season is shaping up to be one to celebrate, and CMI Orchards is heading into the season with a lineup of programs designed to make summer shine.
Avocados from Peru celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with sports partnerships, retail programs
With more than 200 million pounds of Peruvian avocados expected to arrive in the United States this summer, Avocados from Peru is launching its most comprehensive marketing campaign ever, combining support for many of the nation's leading retailers with major sports partnerships, consumer sweepstakes, media activations, community outreach programs and patriotic celebrations designed to drive consumer demand throughout the season.
AFE invests in research for the future of Northeast horticulture
Supporting meaningful horticulture research and education has long been a priority for growers throughout New Hampshire and the Northeast. The newly established New Hampshire Horticulture Research Fund brings that shared commitment together in partnership with the American Floral Endowment, creating a long-term resource dedicated to advancing research, innovation and education that directly benefits the region's horticulture industry.
PRO*ACT Crop Update: Romaine calm, lettuce rebound
Romaine and Romaine hearts remain the main focus this week as supplies continue to tighten across the Salinas Valley. Markets have moved higher over the past two weeks and are expected to remain elevated into mid-June, at minimum. Disease pressure, uneven stands and recent weather interruptions are all reducing harvestable yields and keeping availability limited.
75 years and growing: The people behind the peel
In an industry where startups bloom and fade with the seasons, Goody by Blue Banner Co. stands apart — not because it’s a bold new division, but because of something far more durable: the people who have shown up, season after season, decade after decade, to do the work.