Improving food access for people facing hunger with USDA-backed initiative
The Southeast Regional Cooperative Inc. (SERC), a Feeding America network member, has worked alongside food banks and industry leaders across the Southeast to strengthen the charitable food supply chain through collaborative grant work. The SERC has coordinated this work over the past year and a half through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Resilient Food Systems Partnership (RFSP), a two-year grant that has brought together food bankers, growers and supply chain experts to work on improving access to nutritious food for neighbors facing hunger.
CPMA names 2026-27 chair
The Canadian Produce Marketing Association announced David Dubé as the 2026-27 CPMA Chair following his appointment during the board meeting held concurrently with the 2026 CPMA Convention and Trade Show in Toronto.Dubé is known by many in the produce industry for his leadership of Krown Produce, Krown Imports and The LID Co., which fall under the umbrella of parent company Concorde Group Corp, a company he purchased in 1996.
METRO CEO to retire, successor named
METRO Inc. President and CEO Eric La Flèche will retire at the end of the 2026 fiscal year after more than 18 years at the helm of the company. Marc Giroux, currently chief operating officer, to succeed him, effective Sept. 27. In order to support a smooth and orderly transition, the board will appoint La Flèche as chairman of the board of directors, and Pierre Boivin, current chairman, will be appointed vice chairman and lead director, also effective Sept. 27.
Industry veteran joins Naturipe leadership
Naturipe Farms has named Jennifer Pulcipher as vice president of compliance, adding an experienced leader to support the company’s ongoing focus on food safety and responsibly grown produce.Pulcipher brings more than 13 years of executive leadership experience in food safety, sustainability and global supply chain compliance within the fresh produce industry. Her expertise spans regulatory compliance, third-party certification programs, crisis management and global supplier standards.
FPFC's Holiday Showcase to focus on key opportunities
Holidays are important time for businesses in fresh produce and floral. The Fresh Produce & Floral Council is celebrating them all at the 2026 Produce & Floral Holiday Showcase. The event is happening on Aug. 26 and 27 at the Westin South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, CA. Registration is open now at fpfc.org/events.
An Alexandra Farms guide to David Austin's fragrant cut roses
Roses are a sight to behold in their apricot, pink, yellow or ivory glory and a delight to breathe in, depending on the variety’s fragrance. Without fragrance, the world would be emptier than might first be thought.Scents are processed in the same part of the brain as memories. Scents are emotional and can transport a person back to a moment in time. Scents can soothe and make the stresses of a day feel suddenly insignificant.
Whole Foods seeking local and emerging suppliers
Whole Foods Market opened applications for its 2026 Local and Emerging Accelerator Program (LEAP), reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting innovative local and emerging brands. Launched in 2022, the program provides mentorship opportunities to a select group of brands not yet on the shelves of Whole Foods Market.
NMB kicks off mango season with sweepstakes
As mango season reaches its peak and fans around the world gear up for the World Games in June and July, the National Mango Board is inviting them to celebrate through the shared traditions of food and sport. With its Ultimate Mango Matchday Sweepstakes Giveaway, NMB is turning matchday into a vibrant, flavor-filled experience where mango takes center stage in watch parties, recipes, and fan moments all season long.
LGS Specialty Sales highlights summer citrus supply
LGS Specialty Sales, a leading importer of citrus, avocados, grapes and persimmons, reinforces its position as a trusted summer citrus supplier for retailers nationwide. Backed by more than 30 years of importing experience and a global network of trusted growers, LGS delivers a dependable supply of premium citrus throughout the summer season.