The countdown is on as floral professionals from across the country and around the world prepare to gather under the desert sun for one of the industry’s most anticipated events—the AIFD 2025 National Symposium, Reflection, taking place July 12–15 in Palm Springs, CA. Hosted by the American Institute of Floral Designers, the annual Symposium is a dynamic celebration of floral artistry, education and professional connection. This year’s theme, Reflection, encourages attendees to pause and look inward—honoring the creative journey, revisiting sources of inspiration and exploring personal and

As stock-keeping units of organic fruits and vegetables have risen at grocery stores across the country, Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella Inc. saw an opportunity to expand the nut category. “When we considered which items to launch for retail, we had to factor how prevalent organic is in the nut category,” said Joseph Setton, executive vice president at Setton Farms. “Within conventional grocery stores, organic nuts hold minimal space compared to the numerous conventional options. In particular, pistachios were missing from organic selections, so our team created two core items that would be

John Steven Dietz, founding member of Famous Software, died earlier in 2025 after an eight-year battle with cancer. “John was such a wonderful person, valued mentor, and beloved partner,” said Kirk Parrish, managing partner at Famous Software. “I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to work with John from 1986 to 2001. During that time John shared his life and professional experience with me and so many others at Famous Software. John’s tenacity and focus had a profound impact on the success of Famous Software and the development of our talented staff. My chance meeting in 1986 evolved

Okanagan Specialty Fruits’ groundbreaking Arctic apples are once again proving their value — this time in the craft beverage market. Endless Orchard Hard-Pressed Cider, made exclusively from Arctic apples, earned multiple awards this season at two of the industry’s top competitions: the Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition and the eighth annual Cidercraft Awards. These accolades highlight how Arctic apples — bioengineered to resist oxidative browning — deliver not only superior quality for fresh markets but also create new opportunities across value-added channels. The fruit’s

From smoothie bowls to seafood tacos, mangos are gaining visibility across menus — and their culinary potential is just beginning to be tapped. Mangos now appear on 44 percent of U.S. menus, with usage increasing across all foodservice segments, from fine dining and casual to fast casual and quick service restaurants. This growth — up 11 percent between 2021 and 2024 — points to mangos becoming a go-to ingredient for operators looking to introduce flavor-forward, versatile dishes. Health and versatility are two of the biggest factors driving mango growth. In fact, two-thirds of U.S. consumers

Avocados originated in Mexico, Guatemala, and the West Indies around 10,000 years ago. They were first cultivated over 7,000 years ago in central Mexico. The flavorful guacamole dip and spread was created by the Aztecs and originated in Mexico. It was known as avocado sauce. The avocado was also called alligator pear. Avocados are shipping out of California and Mexico. The demand on avocados is moderate with a steady market. Mexican volume is up 19 percent. Production is mostly on the smaller size. The best way to move large amounts of avocados is to advertise and merchandise them on an end