The Wholesale Florist & Florist Supplier Association announced the appointment of Kari Stringfellow as its new executive vice president, following in the footsteps of the former executive vice president, Molly Alton Mullins.

Category Partners LLC named Julie DeWolf  as its director of business development, reporting to Aimee Smith, senior vice president of business development.

DeWolf brings over 20 years of experience in the produce industry, most recently at one of the largest produce companies in the U.S. With a background as a CPA and years of experience as a shopper marketing director, she has the instincts and experience to drive sales for our clients and create value for stakeholders along the supply chain.

SpartanNash has acquired Metcalfe’s Market, a three-store grocery chain in Wisconsin. Upon close of the sale, the Madison and Wauwatosa, WI, locations will be continuing employment for all employees. The Metcalfe's Market storefront, branding and core shopper experience will remain in place.

HOUSTON – The Texas International Produce Association held its ninth annual Viva Fresh Expo on April 11-13, here, drawing more than 2,700 attendees, setting a new record for attendance for the event. Among the attendees were 425 retail and foodservice buyers, who interacted with the nearly 200 exhibitors on the trade show floor. Houston proved to be a popular destination, with its vibrant downtown and close proximity to major attractions, and Viva Fresh will return to Space City in 2025.

The beginning of 2024 has been incredibly promising for Red Sun Farms.

“We’ve gained valuable insights into our operational disease control measures, and we’re eager to witness their positive effects on yields throughout the rest of the growing season,” said Harold Paivarinta, senior director of sales for the Kingsville, ON-based company. “Additionally, our team has been revitalized by the numerous product innovations.”

Since nearly 90 percent of New Jersey’s fruit and vegetable exports are bound for Eastern Canada, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture will not be attending the Canadian Produce Marketing Association’s 2024 Convention + Trade Show this year as the show is in Vancouver.

Still, the department values its neighbors to the north and is paying attention to what’s happening at the show.