Stemilt plans to continue innovation of Happi Pear, bringing new varieties to retail
Following last year’s short supply of Northwest pears, the industry expects a full crop this year, opening the door for pear promotions and more retail shelf space.
The Fresh Market tops Newsweek’s Best Retailers list
The Fresh Market has been named to Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Retailers 2025, earning the top spot in the specialty/natural/ethnic grocers category. The ranking was published by Newsweek in partnership with Statista Inc.
Liz Atlee brings global expertise to FiveStar Gourmet Foods
FiveStar Gourmet Foods, home of Simply Fresh, has hired Liz Atlee as general counsel and chief compliance officer.
Atlee brings a distinguished background in legal affairs, ethics and compliance, most recently serving as senior vice president and chief ethics and compliance officer at CBRE, where she led a global program operating in over 100 countries. Her expertise encompasses enterprise risk management, including data and cyber protection, litigation strategy, regulatory policy and corporate governance.
AFP fights hunger with nutrition on National Avocado Day
San Diego’s less fortunate were buoyed by a generous — and nutritious — donation by Avocados from Peru as part of the third annual Guac-Off Challenge, held on July 31, National Avocado Day.
Walmart's grape awakening changed store shelves forever
Procuring fresh fruit when it’s not in season is hard — grapes especially.
“There’s something fundamental about grapes, which really makes them a challenge,” said Javier Hernandez, a director in global produce sourcing with Walmart Sourcing. “They are very complex, because they’re very perishable. And getting them in stores, flavorful and full, 52 weeks a year, that was a massive challenge.”
Betteravia Farms hires new EVP of farming operations
Bonipak Produce and Betteravia Farms announced that Kristen Camarena has been appointed executive vice president of farming operations.
A Central Valley native with agricultural roots, Camarena brings two decades of experience and a strong track record of leadership across multiple facets of industry. Her career began in grower relations, where she developed a strong foundation in building long-term partnerships and advocating for the success of growers.
Chopt Salad partners with U.S. soccer star
Chopt Creative Salad Co. announced a new athlete collaboration: a limited-time menu item created in partnership with professional soccer player Emily Sonnett. Sonnett’s Signature Salad will be available at all Chopt locations starting Aug. 6 through Aug. 27, offering guests a delicious way to fuel like a pro.
Superfresh Growers adds pear line, welcomes new crop promotion opportunities
The Pacific Northwest pear crop is showing a strong rebound from last season’s production, which hit a 40-year low as heat, frost and irregular rainfall hit Washington and Oregon orchards.
PRO*ACT Crop Update: Substantial apple volume increases
The Washington apple harvest is fast approaching with early varieties like Gala expected to begin in early August. Pear harvests will follow later in the month. Last year’s extreme heat significantly reduced crop yields, but growers are reporting ideal conditions so far this season. As a result, expectations are high for a well-sized crop with excellent quality.
North Bay Produce gears up for Michigan apple season
North Bay Produce apple growers were picking fruit in late July with the heavy harvesting set to kick off in the second week of August.