Supply chain deepens engagement with Ethical Charter Implementation Program
The Ethical Charter Implementation Program released its second annual industry report, highlighting significant growth in participation and measurable progress in how the fresh produce industry approaches responsible labor practices.
Consalo bolsters staff with two key hires
Consalo Family Farms added two experienced procurement professionals to its sourcing team, welcoming Adam Dandrea and Jay Betancourt as procurement managers. These additions further strengthen the company’s procurement capabilities and reinforce its commitment to delivering high-quality produce and dependable year-round programs to customers across North America.
Cool Pak celebrates 25 years of packaging success
Cool Pak LLC is celebrating 25 years supplying packaging and supplies to the North American produce industry. Incorporated in May of 2001, Cool Pak opened with its first one-pound strawberry clamshell, entering a market dominated by two large suppliers. By providing grower-shippers with a more competitive and agile option, Cool Pak quickly grew into a key supplier for West Coast berry shippers.
Market Minute: California avocados ready for promotional activity
California supplies about 90 percent of all U.S.-grown avocados, produced by roughly 3,000 growers. The season runs spring through early fall, with peak volume now through August. Of the 500-plus known avocado varieties, California commercially grows seven, with Hass representing 95 percent of the state’s crop. The Hass variety was first discovered in the 1920s by mail carrier Rudolph Hass.Market Overview
New Jersey inspections for produce safety and quality
We are pleased to announce that Matt Capelli has been appointed chief, bureau of inspection and grading for the New Jersey Department of Agriculture. In this role, Capelli manages and coordinates programs, grants and staff across several commodity inspection programs. These programs included food safety initiatives such as the USDA Third Party Audit Program and FDA Food Safety Modernization Act inspection programs for Produce Safety and Animal Feed.
Danziger sets the stage for an extraordinary season at Flower Trials 2026
Danziger, a global leader in bedding plant breeding, cut flower breeding and foliage production, invites growers, retailers, wholesalers, buyers and industry partners to discover what's next at Flower Trials 2026, taking place June 9-12 in the Netherlands.This year, Danziger's display will bring together new genetics, practical grower knowledge, retail inspiration, branded programs and point-of-sale ideas – all created to help turn strong varieties into stronger opportunities for the season ahead.
Sunkist unveils new digital platform
Sunkist Growers unveiled a refreshed Sunkist.com experience, introducing a bold new digital platform built around a simple idea: Welcome to the Co-op.
Wegmans announces 1,500 new recipients of employee scholarships for 2026
Wegmans Food Markets announced that the Wegmans Employee Scholarship Program will award college tuition assistance to more than 1,500 new recipients for the upcoming academic year. The company expects to pay out about $5.8 million in tuition assistance to both new and returning scholarship recipients during the 2026-2027 school year.Since the program began in 1984, more than 49,500 Wegmans employees have been awarded scholarships totaling $155 million.
Watermelon Board launches 18th annual retail merchandising contest with Tajín partnership and call for entries
The National Watermelon Promotion Board announced the launch of the 18th annual Retail Merchandising Contest, inviting retailers from across the country to showcase their creativity and merchandising excellence for a chance to win top prizes, including a $5,000 grand prize.
Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association welcomes Abir Akhand to board of directors
The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association announced that Abir Akhand, industry engagement manager for Altria Group Distribution Co., has joined the PFMA board of directors.Akhand is a member of Altria's industry engagement team and leads advocacy efforts in Pennsylvania and across the Northeast. He joins the board with eight years of industry experience, including his recent work leading advocacy efforts throughout the Midwest.