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Giorgio’s Grill Packs win the Joe Nucci Award for product innovation

Giorgio's Grill Packs have been named the winner of the 2025 Joe Nucci Award for product innovation. The award was presented during the Thought Leaders Keynote Breakfast at the New York Produce Show. Competition was strong, with the Grill Packs standing out among 10 innovative produce products selected by a panel of judges recognized for their expertise in the produce industry.

SEPC accepting applications for Next Generation Leadership Academy

The Southeast Produce Council is now accepting nominations for the fourth class of its Next Generation Leadership Academy. Designed for emerging leaders in the produce industry, the yearlong program blends conscious-leadership principles with practical skill-building. Participants strengthen core leadership competencies, learn to navigate industry complexities and develop a growth-focused mindset. With a mix of in-person gatherings and virtual instruction, the academy provides development opportunities for professionals on both the buy and sell sides of the industry. “The success of our first

The produce industry takes a bite out of the Big Apple at NYPS

The 2025 New York Produce Show trade show kicked off at the Javits Center the morning of Dec. 3 and traffic remained strong throughout the day. The show offered exhibitors and attendees a unique convergence of networking, education and commerce in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Attendees found more than 600 exhibiting companies, featuring a show floor full of suppliers, growers, shippers, importers, distributors and service providers.

Save the date for the 78th Santa Barbara International Orchid Show

The 78th Santa Barbara International Orchid Show will return to the Earl Warren Showgrounds from March 20–22, 2026. This year’s theme, “Orchid Escape,” invites visitors to explore the vivid beauty of orchids and the exotic environments they inhabit. Attendees can expect large-scale floral displays in the Exhibit Hall, contemporary floral arrangements, workshops, an international orchid sale and local artwork inspired by orchids. The show runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Judging will be conducted by the internationally recognized American Orchid Society panel. Tickets are available online

Fall Creek appoints Robert Reiter to board of directors

Fall Creek Farm & Nursery Inc. has appointed Robert (Bob) Reiter to its board of directors. Reiter, former head of research and development for Bayer Crop Science, brings more than three decades of global experience in plant breeding, biotechnology and large-scale agricultural innovation. “It’s a privilege to welcome Bob to our board,” said Kevin Murphy, executive chair of Fall Creek’s board of directors. “As Fall Creek continues to expand its global footprint, the depth of Bob’s scientific leadership and his record of delivering innovation to growers worldwide will help guide our long-term

It’s a stellar year for Stemilt Cosmic Crisp apples

Stemilt’s 2025 apple harvest laid the foundation for a strong year for Cosmic Crisp apples, with vibrant color, ideal sizing and excellent quality. As the industry anticipates continued volume growth, Stemilt Marketing Director Brianna Shales said Cosmic Crisp is well positioned for promotions as it becomes a mainline apple variety. “This year’s crop is absolutely stunning,” Shales said. “From color to firmness, every apple reflects the care and dedication our growers put into making Cosmic Crisp a premium choice for shoppers nationwide. It’s one of those apples that tastes great straight off
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Wada Farms is seeing strong momentum across its potato and onion programs, supported by favorable growing conditions, solid storage quality and ongoing investment in sustainability and value-added solutions. 

With extensive grower partnerships throughout key production regions, the company continues to build on its longstanding reputation as a leader in both commodities.

“The season is shaping up well and both potatoes and onions are performing reliably from a supply and quality standpoint,” said Eric Beck, director of marketing for the Idaho Falls, ID-based company. “We grow a range of potato varieties, including Russet, red and yellow potatoes, and our onion program features yellow, red and white onions. The 2025 storage season is in a positive position as it relates to surety of supplies and quality.”

Both retail and foodservice sectors continue to see strong and steady demand, particularly for versatile pack sizes and formats that offer convenience and day-to-day manageability. While traditional varieties remain the core of consumer purchasing patterns, Beck noted newer resilient varieties are gaining interest among customers looking for consistent yield, flavor and reliability.

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