Leading the way: Insights from IFPA Leadership Program Class 29
The International Fresh Produce Association’s Leadership Program Class 29 will be graduating at this year’s Global Produce & Floral Show. The competitive program brings together 12 mid-level produce and floral professionals through a year of in-person events, tours and mentoring opportunities. Participants develop essential leadership and business skills while creating a strong network across the entire supply chain. The program is made possible by Corteva Agriscience’s sponsorship.
Phillips Mushroom Farms to launch first vegan stuffed mushroom
Phillips Mushroom Farms, a fourth-generation family business with more than 95 years of experience growing fresh, high-quality mushrooms, is launching its first vegan stuffed mushroom, created in partnership with Philadelphia-based plant-based cheese innovator Bandit.
Fyffes sells melon business to Martori
Fyffes has sold its entire melon business to Martori, including farms in Honduras and Guatemala and the distribution business in Miami.
Martori Farms, with deep roots in Arizona and California, is well known for its signature melons: cantaloupe, watermelon, traditional honeydew, golden honeydew and the innovative Kandy Lemon Drop melon. With this acquisition, Martori Farms will offer a seamless, year-round supply of melons, strengthening its position as a leading supplier across the United States and Canada.
Kurt Zuhlke & Associates continues to champion sustainable packaging
Kurt Zuhlke, president and CEO of Kurt Zuhlke & Associates, is well known in the produce packaging industry.
His company, based in Easton, PA, manufactures more than 40 different types of packaging for produce. Through Zuhlke’s leadership and extensive industry expertise, he helps retailers identify the optimal packaging solutions to attract consumers and encourage repeat business.
Northland Potato Growers focuses on reds in new campaign
The Northland Potato Growers Association, which represents growers in Minnesota and North Dakota, has a singular mission on the expo floor during the International Fresh Produce Association’s Global Produce & Floral Show.
The association plans to spotlight the unique quality and versatility of the region’s red tablestock potatoes.
Eagle Eye to showcase growth at this year’s IFPA show
Eagle Eye Produce, a leading shipper of potatoes and onions, has made extensive operational investments during the past year to facilitate growth of both categories.
1-800-FLOWERS.COM names Melanie Babcock chief marketing and growth officer
1-800-FLOWERS.COM Inc., a leading provider of thoughtful expressions designed to help inspire customers to express and connect, announced the appointment of Melanie Babcock as chief marketing and growth officer. In her new role, Babcock will lead all aspects of marketing strategy, brand positioning, customer acquisition and retention and revenue growth initiatives. She will report directly to 1-800-FLOWERS.COM Inc. CEO Adolfo Villagomez.
Index Fresh wants to talk avocados
Index Fresh officials are eager to speak to their industry partners about 2026 avocado supply opportunities and the category’s growth prospects at the IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show.
The Corona, CA-based company is recognized as a leader in global avocado marketing, sourcing from all major growing regions and dedicated to delivering the highest quality produce to customers worldwide.
New Jersey Department of Agriculture championing Jersey Fresh
The New Jersey Department of Agriculture, which offers marketing support for New Jersey produce growers, has been attending the IFPA Global Produce & Floral show for 30 years going back to its PMA origins.
Fresh Taste looking forward to conversations at IFPA Global
For more than six generations, Fresh Taste Produce has built its reputation as a trusted importer, grower and distributor of high-quality fruits and vegetables.