In recent months, diesel fuel prices have surged by 40 percent or more, dramatically increasing transportation costs for fresh produce.

Diesel-powered trucks move 80 to 90 percent of fresh produce across the United States, carrying goods from farms and packing facilities to retail distribution centers every day. As fuel prices climb, freight expenses are escalating, putting additional strain on produce shipments and making deliveries more costly.

SugarBee apples are stepping up to the plate in a big way, teaming up with the Seattle Mariners as the club’s Official Healthy Snack in a new partnership designed to bring bold flavor and better-for-you snacking to fans at T-Mobile Park and beyond.

Bolthouse Fresh Foods is continuing to push the carrot category forward with the introduction of Bolthouse Fresh Carrot Fries, a value-added product that brings a new take to one of America’s most familiar comfort foods. Designed for the produce aisle, they combine convenience, flavor and versatility, giving retailers a fresh way to bring excitement to both the carrot set and value-added vegetable section.

In my new role leading business development and member engagement, sponsorship is a topic that comes up in almost every conversation. Companies sponsor programs, events, research and initiatives to align their brand with work that matters to the industry.

Delaware Valley Floral Group announced the acquisition of New England Wholesale Florist, a respected wholesale floral distributor serving customers throughout the New England region.

This acquisition reflects DVFG’s ongoing commitment to strategic growth and operational excellence while expanding its ability to support floral professionals throughout the Northeast. Customers of New England Wholesale Florist will benefit from enhanced sourcing capabilities, expanded product availability and access to DVFG’s fully integrated cold-chain logistics network.

Herndon Farms is beyond excited to announce their partnership with Glory Foods this Vidalia Onion season as “Glory Foods Vidalia Onions” ship soon to stores across the country.  This partnership brings together three trusted southern icons to deliver a fresh opportunity for produce departments. Glory Foods has partnered with leading grower Herndon Farms to introduce this new line of Glory Vidalia Onions combining decades of consumer trust in these two companies with one of America’s most sought-after seasonal produce items.