NNZ, a leading multinational company that offers packaging materials for agricultural and industrial products, announced the retirement of longtime CEO Len Boot, effective July 1. Boot will be replaced by Ronald Hoozemans, who brings a wealth of international experience, a strong sense of purpose and a leadership style that fits naturally with NNZ’s values. In an open letter announcing his retirement, Boot said that after “35 unforgettable years” it was time for a change.

Two new guides have been added to the growing list of resources provided by Sustainabloom to simplify the area of floriculture sustainability and support industry members in reaching their goals with actionable resources and education. The new Cold Chain Management and H-2A and H-2B Work Visa guides will join an extensive lineup of industry guides previously published through Sustainabloom’s website, which was launched in April 2024 by the American Floral Endowment. Using data-driven information, strategy suggestions and expert advice, the information is presented in an easy-to-follow format

John C. Harris, one of California’s most respected leaders in agriculture and a visionary businessman, died July 2. He was 81. According to a statement by Harris Farms, Mr. Harris, born on July 14, 1943, was a lifelong resident of Fresno County. He attended local elementary and high schools before earning his degree from the University of California-Davis, and he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army.

A memorial tribute has been created through the American Floral Endowment honoring Francis (Frank) Biddle, who died peacefully on June 27, 2025, at the age of 60. The tribute was established by Frank’s industry friends Steve Dionne of Wafex USA, Chris Drummond of Penny’s by Plaza Flowers, Greg Coleman of Mayfield Florist, and Ken Young of Phoenix Flower Shops in recognition of his leadership, innovation and lifelong dedication to the floral industry. Biddle was a bold and visionary entrepreneur whose influence helped reshape floral commerce across the Americas. After earning a degree in

Washington Fruit Growers and grower-partner Gilbert Orchards are officially Regenerative Organic Certified for their apple and cherry orchards. The certification marks a significant milestone in the companies’ shared commitment to environmental responsibility and farmworker well-being. Regenerative Organic Certified is an add-on to USDA Organic and emphasizes three core pillars: soil health and land management, animal welfare and social fairness. Both Washington Fruit and Gilbert Orchards have been practicing most ROC principles for years, but the certification validates their leadership in

Katzman Produce, part of Katzman’s family of companies, has expanded into organics. The 100-plus year old wholesaler, based on the Hunts Point Produce Market, has created a dedicated organics department to better service its customers. “Our growth has always been driven by demand from our customers,” said Katzman’s CEO Stefanie Katzman. “As organics popularity has risen, we needed to create a dedicated organics department, warehouse and team, not only to fulfill existing demand for organics, but also to advise and support all of our customers regarding the opportunities within this growing