As a premiere and leading importer and distributor of tropical roots, fruits and ginger across the United States, officials at El Sol Brands feel it is their obligation to the industry to take the lead when necessary and the opportunity presents itself. With that in mind, the Miami-based company recently announced that it was introducing plantain chips in four flavors (sweet, salty, garlic and habanero hot) and two different packaging options: a 16.9-ounce jar in a display ready box and a 36-unit shipper and a three-ounce bag that comes in a clip strip so retailers can place it throughout the

There are a lot of exciting possibilities arising in the North Carolina potato industry in 2025. For instance, the large snack company, UTZ bought a 125,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in the western part of the state that it plans to expand, which reduces transportation costs for North Carolina potato growers who supply the company with fresh chip potatoes. Additionally, some positive momentum has been had with North Carolina becoming a Certified Seed Potato state, led by Hunter Gibbs of Pamlico Shores Produce. “This allows a potential new market and diversifies the capabilities of

New Jersey is known as the Garden State and for good reason. Our farmers produce over 100 varieties of real, local, fruits and vegetables and rank in the Top 10 in production of eggplant, squash, peaches, peppers, blueberries, cranberries, sweet corn, asparagus… the list goes on. Our microclimates and great soils combined with the dedication of New Jersey’s farmers and the New Jersey Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety team all combine to assure you of the freshest, most flavorful, and safe produce you can offer your customers. And for just over 40 years, the Jersey Fresh brand has

Kapi Kapi Growers hired a new director of supply chain focused on strategic growth initiatives to better support its business partners. Marissa Geoffroy, a 17-year industry veteran, is now leading Kapi Kapi’s logistics team overseeing all inbound ocean freight as well as outbound transportation to retail, foodservice and wholesale customers across the United States. Geoffroy brings nearly two decades of experience in produce distribution and international supply chain management, with deep expertise in importing from Central and South America. Most recently, as director of strategic

Consumer demands are reshaping the old shopping routines. Antiquated, dysfunctional practices are difficult to shed, but companies must get rid of resistance to change. So, what will happen if these practices continue to be in operation? A produce manager named Melvin went to work at a supermarket every single day with the same routine. He stopped at the corner donut shop for his usual cup of coffee, drove the same route before arriving at his grocery store. When Melvin entered the store, he turned the lights on in the backroom, hung up his jacket and opened the delivery door to the newly

As the 2025 cherry season ramps up, Stemilt Growers is positioning itself for success with a robust Washington crop, extended marketing opportunities and premium branded programs tailored to today’s retail needs.