Retailers and consumers alike have come to expect consistent quality, robust flavor and clean-slicing deliciousness from Oceanside Pole tomatoes. Unexpectedly, however, a surprise new item will grow and travel alongside the iconic Romas and rounds this summer. Following a successful 2024 trial, Oceanside Pole began commercial production of red sweet Bell peppers. The team projects approximately 150,000 cases, available October through December — a strategic window when supply tends to be limited due to the seasonal transitions between Canadian and Mexican production. “Timing can be everything

In a bold and promising move for the future of British Columbia’s fruit industry, the Supreme Court of British Columbia approved the purchase of the remaining South Okanagan assets of BC Tree Fruits by Wildstone Capital Ltd. The BC Tree Fruits name will remain, preserving its deep-rooted brand equity and significance across western Canada. The transaction is expected to close May 30. Wildstone is a family-owned Penticton, BC-based corporation that is strategically partnered with a local investor group and Algoma Orchards, one of Canada’s largest independent apple growers. Under Algoma’s

Floriexpo, North America’s dedicated B2B event for the floral industry, will return to the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, from June 4–6, 2025. With an expanded focus on education, retail engagement, and industry collaboration, the upcoming event aims to address current challenges while highlighting new opportunities for growth and innovation across the floral supply chain. “Floriexpo 2025 is going to be a game-changer,” said Bob Callahan, president and CEO of Floriexpo. “Our overarching mission is to ignite growth and foster collaboration within the floral

As the floral industry navigates shifting consumer behaviors, economic pressures, and rapid advancements in technology, Floriexpo’s 2025 educational program is designed to offer practical strategies, future-focused insight, and creative inspiration for floral professionals across the supply chain. According to Bob Callahan, president and CEO of Floriexpo, this year’s educational sessions reflect the real-world challenges and opportunities retailers are facing—and how to respond with confidence and innovation. “We’ve built a program that truly reflects where the industry is today and where it’s

The Wholesale Florist & Florist Supplier Association (WFFSA) announced its 2025 Development Experience (DevX),taking place July 23–25 in Cleveland, OH. Sponsored by CalFlowers, this premier hands-on educational event is set to deliver an immersive blend of learning, networking and on-the-road discovery — all with a little rock and roll flair. DevX is WFFSA’s flagship summer event designed to bring floral distribution professionals together for practical education, real-world insights and one-of-a-kind networking. Formerly known as the Management Institute, DevX has evolved into a dynamic, on

This summer, Wegmans is looking to help customers enjoy the season with lower prices on must-have summer items, including plenty of produce like grape tomatoes, bagged onions and mixed peppers. “We aim to help our customers easily prepare healthy, affordable meals year-round,” said Tom Way, Wegmans senior vice president of pricing, analytics and insights. “With our hot zone program, we’re offering customers great values on everyday items throughout the year, and as we head into the summer season, we’ve lowered prices on those must-have summer cookout items.” The retailer asked customers what