Mexican avocado industry announces zero-deforestation agreement
The Mexican avocado industry is leading the agricultural sector with its commitment to a binding federal conservation agreement that aims to ensure all produce exports will be deforestation-free by 2030.
Tops Friendly Markets expands Food as Medicine access
Shoppers at Tops Friendly Markets can now use their NationsBenefits Benefits Mastercard Prepaid Card at all Tops locations to purchase fresh produce, pantry staples and over‑the‑counter wellness essentials with each transaction validated in real time by NationsBenefits’ Basket Adjudication Service.
Pumpkin season is blooming at Veg Fresh Farms
Veg Fresh Farms started a modest fall program focused on traditional carving pumpkins about five years ago. Today, that program has rapidly expanded into a robust and diversified offering, distinguishing itself with unique heirloom varieties and custom-tailored mix-and-match bins designed to meet evolving consumer demand.
Continental Floral Greens announces debut of Pacific Northwest-grown dahlias
Continental Floral Greens has introduced its debut of Dahlias grown in the Pacific Northwest. Known for their vibrant colors and intricate forms, Dahlias are beloved as one of summer’s most expressive flowers. This debut marks an important step in its mission to bring new products to market that highlight innovation through Mother Nature.
IFPA disappointed by stalled global plastic pact
Building on the accreditation status it received in July from the United Nations Environment Programme, the International Fresh Produce Association advocated on behalf of its membership and the global produce and floral community at the recent UN global plastics pollution treaty in Geneva, Switzerland, with IFPA Chief Science Officer Max Teplitski representing the organization.
Allen Lund Co. names new assistant GM
The Allen Lund Co. promoted Paul Ellis to assistant general manager of the Memphis office.
Ellis graduated from the University of Memphis in 2008. He began his career in the supply chain industry by working with other transportation brokers before joining the Allen Lund Co. in 2017 as a broker in training. Since then, he has advanced through the ranks to broker, senior transportation broker and operations manager.
Potandon strengthens grower relationships under new leadership
Potandon Produce LLC has appointed seasoned produce executive Mike Behrendt as its regional director of product procurement, based in Pendleton, IN.
Save A Lot names new CEO
Save A Lot announced that Bill Mayo, current chief operating officer, has been promoted to the role of CEO as current CEO Fred Boehler steps back from management of day-to-day operations. Boehler will remain active in an advisory role to both Mayo and the board of directors over the coming months.
Market Minute: Timing right for tomato promotions
Supermarkets are the leading source for the majority of fresh tomato sales in the U.S. Over 70 percent of tomatoes are imported into the country, primarily from Mexico and Canada.
California is a major producer of fresh tomatoes with Florida as the second-largest supplier in the U.S.
Zespri on track to deliver strong value in record crop year
Zespri CEO Jason Te Brake said the kiwifruit forecast for the 2025-26 season reflects the strong start, with average per hectare returns forecast to reach record levels for all categories other than SunGold and organic green kiwi.
“Our latest forecast is positive news for growers in a season with even more fruit to sell, with sales tracking well across our key markets including through the traditionally more competitive summer fruit season," he said.