Putts and clay targets keep networking fresh at SWIPE 2026
Some people love to network. Others find it awkward or even exhausting. No matter which type of produce industry pro you are, the Southwest International Produce Expo is designed to be a refreshing place to connect and conduct business. The event, best known as SWIPE, is redefining how trade show business gets done — by making it easy, laid-back and, most of all, fun.Imagine more cold drinks over lively activity and less small talk at stale mixers.
Side Delights offering fresh Friendsgiving potato products, recipes
Side Delights can help make festive Friendsgiving potato side dishes, as new generations embrace the tradition of hosting or bringing their holiday meals to their chosen families. “Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving can be more fun and less work with versatile products like Side Delights Steamables, for a simple, easy potato side dish that can be jazzed up for company,” said Kathleen Triou, president and CEO of Fresh Solutions Network.
Main Street Produce expands strawberry program
In preparation for what is expected to be a blooming strawberry season in the coming months, Main Street Produce is expanding its strawberry program with broadened shipping operations across multiple key growing regions in central Mexico, Baja, Florida, Santa Maria and Oxnard.
Produce industry icon David Bernstein mourned
David Bernstein, a past chair of the United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association who also served as vice president of marketing at Sunkist, died Oct. 22. He was 85.Mr. Bernstein held many positions over his career in law, sales and marketing, executive leadership and board service, all connected to the produce industry he loved. His legacy includes Sunkist's expansion into Asian markets and time as executive vice president of Pacific Fruit in New York. He was also the owner of an import-export consultancy, introducing Moroccan citrus to the U.S.
Taylor Farms acquires Natures Way Foods
Taylor Farms announced the acquisition of Natures Way Foods, one of the United Kingdom’s leading fresh prepared food manufacturers. Based in Chichester, England, Natures Way Foods employs 1,300 people and specializes in the supply of fresh, convenient food supporting retail and foodservice customers.
¡Yo Quiero! brings the heat with new Jalapeño dips collection
This holiday season, ¡Yo Quiero! is turning up the heat and flavor with the launch of its new Jalapeño dips collection — a bold lineup designed to meet America’s growing appetite for spice. Featuring Jalapeño Ranch, Jalapeño Dip, Candied Jalapeño Dip and Candied Jalapeños, the new collection delivers a modern twist on classic favorites, including the celebration of the viral sweet and spicy flavor craze with two of its items.
Fyffes helps transform housing for banana-farming families
More than 300 banana-farming families in Colombia’s Magdalena region now have safer, healthier homes thanks to a five-year partnership between Fyffes, the Albert Heijn Foundation,the Banasan Foundation and Banasan affiliated corporations. The Building Dreams project, launched in 2020, was designed to improve living conditions, sanitation and wellbeing for banana-growing communities.At a ceremony marking five years of the project, partners reflected on the impact of the initiative, which combines infrastructure upgrades, psychosocial support and environmental education.
Global Produce & Floral Show delivers over 30,000 pounds of flowers
International Fresh Produce Association, with the generosity of Global Produce & Floral Show exhibitors, has donated 226,227 pounds of fresh, quality produce and 30,000 pounds of flowers and plants to the local Orange County and Los Angeles Community. The annual show, which attracts exhibitors from across the produce and floral supply chain, has established partnerships with food banks in host cities. Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County is a member of Feeding America.
Kroger expands Uber Eats partnership
Kroger and Uber Technologies announced an expanded relationship that brings together the companies to make it easier than ever for customers to shop, save and dine.This announcement builds on a strong existing relationship between Kroger and Uber Eats. This multi-faceted expansion means Kroger can fulfill more customer needs, which will attract incremental households and shopping occasions.Throughout the coming year, customers will be able to:
Banana industry announces association to support the category
Four major banana importers have announced the formation of a new not-for-profit trade association to support the banana category in North America. The Banana Association of North America will be governed by a board of directors consisting of executives of its member companies, including Chiquita, Dole Food Co., Fresh Del Monte and Fyffes North America.