Brighter Bites launches in San Diego
Brighter Bites officially launched its San Diego program at Jefferson Elementary School. The kickoff on Sept. 23 marked an exciting milestone in the organization’s mission to improve long-term health outcomes for children and families through access to fresh produce and hands-on nutrition education.
ShopRite, Wakefern pledge $1.25M to regional food banks
ShopRite and Wakefern Food Corp. are pledging $1.25 million in food and funds to food banks across the region to support families impacted by the ongoing federal government shutdown and the uncertainty surrounding SNAP benefits.Wakefern, the retailer-owned supermarket cooperative with members who own and operate supermarkets across nine states, said the donation will be distributed among regional food banks in the communities where Wakefern supermarket banners operate.
Plant Grow Harvest earns IFPA’s Best First-Time Exhibitor Award
The Plant Grow Harvest (PGH) team took home the Best First-Time Exhibitor Booth Award at the IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show, earning standout recognition for its engaging booth experience, product innovation and cohesive brand approach that unites both baby and big-sized potatoes under one bold identity.
Farm Pak launches Francie’s Finest brand in celebration of its next generation
Farm Pak Products Inc. will launch its newest brand, Francie’s Finest, this month in celebration of the first birthday of Francine (Francie) Barnes, daughter of company President Josh Barnes.
FirstFruits Farms kicks off Opal apple season
FirstFruits Farms, the exclusive grower of Opal apples, is excited to announce the kickoff of the highly anticipated Opal season. Known for its signature bright yellow skin, naturally non-browning flesh, and tangy-yet-sweet flavor, Opal continues to deliver an eating experience unlike any other apple.This season, shoppers will see new packaging that highlights Opal’s bright color and crisp, sweet flavor, while making it pop out on the shelf. The refreshed design reflects FirstFruits’ focus on giving consumers a fresh look and a high-quality experience.
Kroger, Instacart investing in AI
The Kroger Co. and Instacart announced an expanded relationship to continue to innovate the customer digital shopping experience. The companies are looking to find new ways to provide customers fresh food and pantry staples through improved efficiency, increased access to Express Delivery and new, agentic shopping experiences.
Westfalia strengthens marketing, development capabilities
Westfalia Fruit has established a new customer development team, led by newly appointed Dani Busseni as global head of customer marketing and development. The new appointments combine market insights, commercial strategy and category management expertise to identify growth opportunities for both customers and growers.
FPAA honors Pedro Batiz Sr. with Pillar of the Industry Award
The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas announced that Pedro Francisco Batiz Guillen will receive the Pillar of the Industry Award at FPAA’s 2025 Annual Meeting.
Sunrise Logistics to add new high-pressure processing tolling facility
Sunrise Logistics Inc., a member of The Four Seasons Family of Cos., will introduce a high pressure processing (HPP) tolling service integration at its state-of-the-art cold chain operation in Ephrata, PA.
Market Minute: New pear crop a perfect fit for promotions
The Northwest pear harvest has made a tremendous comeback from last year’s crop and is back on its feet with a 60 percent increase over 2024 — with the entire U.S. pear crop estimated at a 22 percent increase. So get ready to run some exciting retail pear promotional ads now through Christmas.