Established in 2004 as an organic produce distributor and rebranded in 2019, Happy Dirt has evolved as a significant North Carolina-based organic produce wholesaler that is experiencing rapid growth in the sector.

Pat Bayor, vice president of sales and purchasing, revealed that the company was founded as Eastern Carolina Organics by Sandi Kronick with a limited product line, but it has since expanded its offerings and is now owned by two staff members and 16 North Carolina farmers.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has imposed sanctions on four produce businesses for failing to meet contractual obligations to the sellers of produce they purchased and for failing to pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. These sanctions include suspending the businesses’ PACA licenses and barring the principal operators of the businesses from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without USDA approval.

The following businesses and individuals are currently restricted from operating in the produce industry:

June is National Mango Month, and Continental Fresh is marking the occasion by highlighting the impact of mangos beyond the produce aisle. For Continental Fresh, mangos represent more than tropical flavor — they embody a deeper connection to the Latin American communities where the fruit is grown and where the company’s philanthropic work continues to grow.

Food Lion marked its 10th annual Feedys Awards by honoring a select group of food banks, volunteers, community leaders and Food Lion associates who make a meaningful impact in their communities. This year’s honorees were recognized for their outstanding efforts and commitment to addressing food insecurity and helping nourish neighbors across the grocery retailer’s 10-state footprint. Food Lion Feeds was founded in 2014 by Food Lion to address food insecurity in the towns and cities it serves. 

Dole Food Co. named the first recipient of its “Spirit of ‘Ohana” honor, given to groups and individuals who best demonstrate the hospitality and community-service themes of the Hawaiian concept of extended family. 

Andy Webb has been named vice president of business development for Progressive Produce. Webb will be working across everything Progressive does, including produce and 3PL services, to continue the company's ongoing growth strategy.