The Red River Valley potato industry was represented in the recent New York Produce Show & Conference through a booth sponsored by the Northern Plains Potato Growers Association, which is located in East Grand Forks, MN.

Representing the association were its marketing director, Ted Kreis, as well as Glen Reynolds and Keith Groven, representatives of Black Gold Farms Inc., and Jenni Boushey from A&L Potato Co. Inc. A&L is located in East Grand Forks, and Black Gold is headquartered nearby in Grand Forks, ND.

The United Fresh Produce Association has launched “Fresh Insights for Foodservice,” a new quarterly report showcasing the latest trends in fresh produce use in foodservice and restaurants.

“We are excited to offer the industry such an in-depth resource focused on foodservice,” said United’s Vice President of Trade Relations Jeff Oberman, liaison to United’s Retail-Foodservice Board. “Our members know that foodservice trends shift quickly and this publication will be a valuable tool for them to stay on top of those trends and take advantage of new opportunities.”

As the calendar turned a year ago, Florida’s flower and plant growers were nervous, yet hopeful, for a sales rebound. Trepidation evaporated as Florida’s $15.3 billion nursery and landscape industry enjoyed a significant sales jump across all categories.

As 2014 arrives, the Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association is anticipating the notable rebound will persist.

In 2013, consumers seemed to be seeking comfort and ways to relax, so they were drawn to the familiar, tried-and-true plant varieties.

When does a trend become the standard? Is it two years? Three years? Five years?

For the fourth consecutive year the California Cut Flower Commission has seen an increase in the annual sales of flowers and greens from its farms. As the largest producer of U.S.-grown flowers, California’s flower-farming families have certainly continued to benefit from a general market trend towards locally grown foods.

Last year brought many industry challenges that were beyond our control. The government sequester and shutdown created additional problems for the Customs & Border Protection staff for flower importing. The sequester reduced the number of staff members who were employed and cut back on overtime. The government shutdown added even more stress.

The complete change in the Wholesale Florist & Florist Supplier Association, its management and conference, has inspired its members to not just think outside the box, but to throw the box away and look at every part of their businesses. Who are we? Where do we fit in? What can we do for you?

The last few years, members of WF&FSA have been asking and answering the first two questions.