Taylor Farms launches new protein-forward product line
Taylor Farms has introduced a new product platform designed to meet the increase in high protein lifestyles. The new line combines fresh vegetables with protein packed dressings, dips and toppings."Consumers want more than just fresh — they want functional,” said Bryan Jaynes, senior vice president of product. “As nearly everyone is increasing their protein intake these days, this new product line combines the power of protein and fresh produce to help more people achieve their nutrition goals.”
Kapi Kapi Growers focused on environment, social, governance priorities
Kapi Kapi Growers published its first sustainability report, highlighting clear objectives, goals and metrics to further enhance its commitment to environmental, social and governance priorities that support the communities and environments where it operates.The critical objectives identified in Kapi Kapi’s 2025–30 ESG strategy are based on stakeholder input and diagnostic analysis. Metrics focus on measuring and reducing the company’s impact on water consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, training and learning, and compliance.
JOH names North Central vice president of produce
Jim McErlean has joined JOH as vice president of produce, North Central.McErlean brings nearly two decades of experience across the retail and CPG landscape, with a strong track record of building partnerships and driving growth across the Midwest produce market. He began his career at a Chicago-based food brokerage, where he built a strong foundation in retail and CPG sales while developing key relationships across the region.
Tennis legend teams up with California Dates
California Dates has announced a new sports brand ambassador partnership with tennis legend, Grand Slam champion and International Tennis Hall of Famer Michael Chang, celebrating the power of naturally sweet, nutrient-rich California Dates for athletes, fitness enthusiasts and active families.
Making dreams a reality: PanAmerican Seed partners with Roots for Youth
PanAmerican Seed announced the charity it will support for the 2026 gardening season through its popular brand of Beacon Impatiens. This year, the company will partner with Roots for Youth, an organization founded by the Bradford Greenhouses Family Trust in Ontario, Canada. The group empowers teens and young adults who have endured family tragedies by providing bursaries (scholarships) for post-secondary education.
Plant Grow Harvest celebrates one year of Digs brand
Plant Grow Harvest is entering the spring season with strong availability across both conventional and organic potato programs under its growing Digs brand.The company’s strong crop performance and expanded production position PGH to support retail partners with dependable supply while continuing to build momentum behind the Digs brand, which is celebrating its one-year anniversary since launching at SEPC Southern Exposure in 2025.
Ellise Fallon joins Clean Works as senior sales executive
Clean Works, a global leader in advanced food-safety technology, announced the appointment of Ellise Fallon as senior sales executive, effective immediately. Fallon will focus on driving commercial expansion and strengthening strategic customer partnerships as the company continues to scale its global footprint. She reports to Michele Visser, Clean Works vice president.
Market Minute: California mandarins are at peak season
Mandarins originated in Southeast Asia and China, dating back approximately 4,000 years. Historical accounts suggest that missionaries introduced mandarins to Southern California in the 1800s, while others report they arrived with miners during the Gold Rush. Currently, California supplies over 90 percent of the U.S. mandarin market, with the San Joaquin Valley serving as the leading production area. California mandarins are available from November through April.
Delaware Valley Floral Group acquires Rokay Floral in Michigan
Delaware Valley Floral Group LLC has acquired Rokay Floral Inc., a wholesale floral distributor serving the Michigan floral community for 35 years.Owned and operated by Rob and Sandy Stogdill since 2000, Rokay Floral serves professional retail florists and event designers throughout Metro Detroit and Southwest Michigan. The company operates two locations in Novi and Battle Creek, MI. Both will continue to operate with the same team to ensure continuity for customers and suppliers.
Wakefern seeking produce suppliers
Wakefern Food Corp., the retailer‑owned supermarket cooperative with member companies that own and operate supermarkets under the ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, the Fresh Grocer, Dearborn Market, Gourmet Garage, Fairway Market, Morton Williams and Di Bruno Bros. banners, is seeking local growers to join its network of suppliers and participate in its Local Produce Supplier Summit on July 15. Applications opened March 9 via the RangeMe platform and will remain open for 30 days.