Bruce Robinson has joined Stater Bros. Markets as its new vice president of fresh sales and merchandising.

Robinson will work cross‑functionally with store operations, marketing and supply chain to elevate the company's brand and deliver a market‑leading merchandising strategy across meat, seafood, produce, floral, service deli and bakery. He will also oversee assortment planning, space allocation, department flow, pricing and promotions to optimize sales and profitability.

Duda Farm Fresh Foods announced the retirement of its national account manager, Bob Sloate, following a distinguished 50-year career in the fresh produce industry, including 23 years of dedicated service to Duda.

Portobello mushrooms are the fully mature Cremini mushrooms that can grow up to six inches in diameter. This mushroom is known for its dense, meaty steak-like texture. During summer, outdoor grilling is a prime time for the Portobello veggie burger.

Today’s shoppers are spending more each year on premium brown mushrooms. The Portobello is a perfect produce item for grilling by brushing the caps with olive oil, balsamic vinegar and garlic. They will turn up nicely charred and juicy by grilling them on a medium-high heat for just five to seven minutes per side. 

As consumers prepare for Fourth of July celebrations, Melon 1 is helping retailers showcase one of summer's most iconic fruits through an expanded U.S.-themed merchandising program designed to drive excitement in the produce department and celebrate the American family farmer.

Balchem Plant Nutrition has launched Metalosate T.E.A.M., a new digital plant tissue analysis platform designed to help crop advisors and agronomists make more precise nutrient management decisions for specialty crops.

The free platform, available to pest control advisors and agronomists throughout the United States, analyzes plant tissue results and converts them into crop-specific nutrient recommendations intended to improve yield potential, fruit quality and return on investment while reducing unnecessary fertilizer applications.

Over its 40-year history, TK Fresh has built supplier relationships based on trust, transparency, consistency and mutual growth.

The company views its suppliers as long-term partners rather than vendors, said Lorenzo Scala, co-founder of the Toronto-based fresh produce distributor.

“Our goal is not only to purchase produce but also to help suppliers establish and expand their presence in the Canadian market through our sales expertise, retail relationships and distribution network,” Scala said.