Sun World showcases future of table grapes
Sun World International welcomed more than 200 licensed growers and partners to its Center for Innovation in Wasco, CA, for the 2025 July Field Day — a signature event focused on varietal innovation, vineyard performance and Sun World’s commitment to delivering high-quality branded grapes worldwide.
Held bi-annually, the Field Day offers an in-field look at the company’s latest developments, providing partners with updates on planting trends, performance insights and shared goals around flavor, sustainability and market leadership.
Trendspotting: Record-breaking month for online grocery sales
July was a record-setting month for the online grocery segment. Sales totaled $10 billion, a 26 percent increase from the prior year, according to the latest Brick Meets Click Grocery Shopper Survey, sponsored by Mercatus.
The surge in sales can be attributed to record-high household penetration, strong order activity and solid gains in spending rates, which helped online capture over 17 percent of total grocery spending during the month.
United heats up pepper sales
Each July and August, stores across The United Family in Texas and New Mexico host the annual Hatch Chile Fest, a promotion all about the celebration of the Hatch chile. During the promotion, stores conduct on-site roastings of fresh Hatch chiles, build special displays and prepare numerous limited-time products across departments.
Philip Henry: A nice man and gifted leader
Philip Henry, who served as president of the Henry Avocado Corp. in Escondido, CA, since the early 2000s, died on June 30, of cancer.
AFE announces new trustees, committee and outgoing board members
The American Floral Endowment welcomes two new Trustees to its board of trustees, effective Sept. 1. These accomplished industry leaders bring valuable expertise, fresh perspectives and a strong commitment to supporting the future of floriculture. Their involvement will help guide AFE’s strategic direction and enhance the impact of AFE funding and programs across all segments of the industry.
SpartanNash names new VP of OwnBrands marketing
Jason Ulichnie has joined SpartanNash as vice president of OwnBrands marketing. In this role, Ulichnie will oversee the end-to-end portfolio management, product development and brand equity of SpartanNash OwnBrands for company-operated stores and wholesale customers.
Mission Produce builds avocado supply network to meet demand, quality
Mission Produce covers its customers’ avocado needs through a deep network of growers, sourcing from more than 15 countries throughout the year to fill customer programs in more than two dozen count
Procurant, Fusionware look to transform perishables supply chain
Procurant and Fusionware launched a seamless integration that brings unprecedented automation and visibility to fresh food supply chains.
Bee Sweet Citrus helping families prepare for new school year
As the 2025-26 academic year draws near for many households, the Bee Sweet Citrus team is encouraging families to incorporate its citrus products into back-to-school meals and snacks.
“Citrus fruits are perfect for busy families because they’re easy to peel, delicious and are a great source of vitamin C,” said Bee Sweet Citrus Director of Communications Monique Mueller. “They require minimal preparation, making them an ideal snack choice for families juggling work, school, sports and more.”
Market Minute: Improved lettuce supplies ready to promote
Get the large salad bowls out along with your favorite salad dressings. This is the ideal time to promote those summer salads for backyard BBQs, parties, family gatherings or camping. Plan a nice ad flyer section of all lettuce varieties to draw those customers.