TERRA BELLA, CA - As the holidays near, my sweet tooth always seems to get worse anticipating the sugary confections that come with the celebrations. This year, to allow consumers to get a nutritional boost as they fulfill their sweet cravings, Setton Farms has launched three new dark chocolate varieties to its pistachio offerings. Accompanying its popular Dark Chocolate Pistachios will be the new Dark Chocolate Nut Blend, Dark Chocolate Almonds, and Dark Chocolate Pistachios and Cranberries.

"Our Dark Chocolate Pistachios are a consumer favorite, and we are excited to further expand the line with these new additions," said COO Mia Cohen. "We are thrilled to offer nutrient-rich pistachio snacks that people feel good about indulging in."

All products are made in house in small batches and use no artificial colors or flavors.

The new offerings are covered in a rich, decadent dark chocolate and feature Setton Farms' premium, California-grown pistachios, according to a press release. The Dark Chocolate Nut Blend includes delicious, crunchy almonds along with quality cashews. The Dark Chocolate Almonds feature California-grown almonds of the highest quality, and the Dark Pistachios and Cranberries combine the Setton family nut variety with the tangy sweetness of cranberries.

"Pairing chocolate with nuts can be a very satisfying combo when you're craving something sweet! Nuts like pistachios, cashews, and almonds provide extra fiber, fats, and protein to keep your blood sugar stable and help you feel full," said May Zhu, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Setton Farms. "Pistachios are a great source of Vitamin B-6, which help our bodies metabolize food to turn it into energy. These new products from Setton Farms are cholesterol- and sodium-free, which make them a very versatile option that can fit into a variety of different lifestyles."

Setton Farms’ pistachio products are featured in stores across the U.S. like Menards, Kroger, Wegmans, Lunds & Byerlys, Woodmans, Shoprite, Winco, Acme, Bed Bath & Beyond, Albertson/Shaws, At Home, and are also available online through Amazon.

All of Setton’s pistachios are vegan, Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Gluten-Free, and kosher. The company’s pistachios are also grown, processed, and packaged using eco-friendly practices and renewable energy sources.

If you want to give your customers something to indulge their holiday sweet tooth but with a healthy twist, stock up on Setton Farms’ new lineup to give them exactly what they’re looking for.

Setton Farms

MONTEREY, CA - Following suit with other industry associations, the Organic Produce Network (OPN) has announced that its Organic Grower Summit (OGS) will not be held as an in-person event this year, but instead will be transitioned to a virtual keynote event. The updated event will take place December 9 and will feature leaders from three of the nation’s recognized organic growers. Available for free viewing, The OGS Grower Roundtable 2020 will offer key chances to get in-depth knowledge about opportunities, challenges, and issues affecting the organic market.

“Organic fresh produce continues to be one of the fastest growing and dynamic segments of agriculture, registering double digit growth over the past decade. I look forward to discussing some of the most important issues of organic production with three of the most respected leaders in the organic fresh produce industry,” said Dave Puglia, President and CEO of Western Growers Association. “Sharing their insight on the challenges and opportunities we have in front of us today, and into the future, will be valuable for growers, retailers, and allied members of our industry.”

This year’s virtual event will be moderated by Puglia, and has been designed to promote the exchange of ideas and information amongst industry members, according to a press release. Topics that will be covered at the roundtable include labor, ag technology, regulatory challenges, supply chain issues, post-election analysis, and a look into 2021 and beyond.

The event will also feature panelists, Bruce Taylor, President, Taylor Farms/Earthbound Farm; Vic Smith, President, JV Smith Companies; and Soren Bjorn, President, Driscoll’s of the Americas.

The OGS Grower Roundtable 2020 marks the third of a series of virtual events held by OPN this year, as the association aims to provide a way for industry leaders to shed light on ongoing events that affect organic fresh produce.

As more events take on a virtual format, AndNowUKnow will continue to report on the latest.

Organic Produce Network

LOS ANGELES, CA - Is there more of a staple in the U.S.’s holiday home activities than Hallmark Channel’s Countdown to Christmas? Already as iconic as decorating a tree and wrapping presents, it’s easy to imagine this will be even more of a staple this year as families stay in to help further halt the spread of COVID-19, and among the warm tales and retellings will be Envy^™ apples.

“Hallmark Channel’s popular Countdown to Christmas programming is especially relevant this year as families spend more time at home. Envy apples invites consumers to pause and enjoy the best of the season, enhancing holiday moments of joy and connection with delicious flavors,” said Cecilia Flores Paez, T&G Global Head of Marketing for North America, which owns the apple brand.

At retail, Envy apples are offered in special holiday 2 lb bags with holiday-themed display bins.

“As the spirit of Christmas grows during this important shopping period, so too does the opportunity to connect with shoppers in relevant and meaningful ways, which is the purpose of this comprehensive Envy holiday activation,” Flores Paez noted.

Partnering with the established network, Envy apples will be featured on Hallmark Channel’s broadcast, social, and digital properties to inspire millions of consumers to include the premium apple in their holiday recipes, décor, and more, according to a press release. Beginning in mid-November, this fruitful partnership will see Envy star in a recipe demonstration on Hallmark Channel’s daily Home & Family TV morning show with Debbie Matenopoulos and Cameron Mathison. A sponsored video will also see the hosts demonstrate how to assemble a festive cheese and charcuterie board centered on Envy apples. Consumers will also have access to more recipes, serving tips, and other holiday inspiration on HallmarkChannel.com while display ads throughout the Hallmark Channel’s network of websites will drive viewers to these online resources.

T&G Global has launched a new website, HolidaysWithEnvy.com, featuring a series of recipes inspired by several of the holiday films that will premiere as part of the Countdown to Christmas to further enhance the partnership.

In addition to a push for a 6-week activation leading up to Christmas, which is already expected to exceed 200 million impressions amid the season, even more merry and eye-catching point of sale materials are available for interested retailers.

Envy, marketed by CMI Orchards, Rainier Fruit Co., and Oppy, now joins a league of 24/7 holiday programming, not to mention the accolade Hallmark Channel holds for the past four years, ranking among the most-watched networks in Q4 with women aged 25–54.

Congratulations to the latest blushing star of holiday cheer!

T&G Global

RIVERSIDE, CA - With 30 years at Index Fresh under her belt, Debbie Willmann has been announced as the new Director of Sales for the company. In her new position, Willmann will help manage Index Fresh’s existing domestic and international accounts, set growth goals, and help to build and expand the company’s customer network.

“This is an opportunity for me to help guide the company on a grander scale. We are expanding internationally and building new partnerships in other countries of origin, and I’m excited to be a part of that,” said Willmann. “I see nothing but growth and opportunity for Index Fresh.”

As Director of Sales, Willmann will be overseeing key accounts; supervising the sales support department; and will serve as the liaison between Operations, Logistics, Procurement, and the California Field Team, according to a press release.

In her new role, Willmann will work to support Todd Elder, Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

“Willmann’s 30-year career at Index Fresh has given her vast knowledge and experience across all departments. That combined with her commitment to excellence will help us grow even more robustly with her as Director of Sales,” said Elder. “She’s been an excellent colleague for the last 26 years, and we’re all looking forward to this next step.”

The avocado purveyor is in good hands with Willmann at the helm. In the last three decades with the company, Willmann has already seen success developing long-term partnerships with customers around the globe and will continue on with her work as she takes on this new role.

“Debbie’s deep knowledge of the business gathered over three decades allows her to add tremendous value to our customers and the Index Fresh team. She will do a great job, and I’m very excited to see her flourish in this new role!” said Steve Roodzant, President and CEO.

Congratulations to Debbie as she steps into her new position! We look forward to seeing what her future holds as she continues on in her journey with Index Fresh.

Index Fresh

ARLINGTON, VA - It seems impossible that it’s been two years since Amazon unveiled its final choice for a second headquarters after much deliberation and a country-wide search for the $5 billion investment. Now, the Whole Foods parent and new owner of the brick-and-mortar Amazon Fresh chain is recommitting to one of its newer homes, the Arlington, Virginia, area, with a $9 million investment plan.

The strategy, according to Washington Business Journal, is cumulatively Amazon's largest philanthropic move for the area since making its HQ2 decision. Among the five areas the company will be donating gifts to are health facilities, racial justice organizations, and legal service providers as the retailer looks to deepen its commitment to the region it founded one of its homes in.

“It’s an understatement to say how proud we are to be part of National Landing,” said Brian Huseman, Amazon Vice President of Public Policy—whose team led the search for the HQ2 location—in a statement. "To mark this milestone, we will donate $9 million to help support a broad range of local community organizations that make up the fabric of the diverse, vibrant region we now call home."

The detailed donations include:

• $3 million to four legal service providers to help support families in the Virginia and DC region. Recipients include Legal Services of Northern Virginia, Virginia Poverty Law Center, Bread for the City’s Legal Clinic, and Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia

• $1 million to organizations that are advancing the cause of racial equity and community empowerment, such as Bridges to Independence, Offender Aid and Restoration, and the Arlington Branch NAACP Scholarship Program

• $1 million to community health facilities, including the Arlington Free Clinic, Alexandria Neighborhood Health, Children’s National Hospital, and the Virginia Hospital Center

• $500,000 to community organizations that will help advance economic opportunity through literacy programs and job training, such as La Cocina VA, DC Central Kitchen’s Culinary Job Training Program, and the Literacy Council of Northern Virginia

• $3.5 million designated for community organizations across the region supporting small businesses, military families, the environment, the arts and more

Alice Shobe, Director for Amazon in the Community, and her team have worked over the last two years to understand the most pressing issues facing consumers in the area, effectively determining Amazon’s $3 million gift to legal service providers to support families in the Virginia and DC region in need of immediate assistance for housing-related issues.

“This $3 million donation will quickly provide support to individuals and families who need help. Tenant rights are a particularly complicated issue right now, and families are facing innumerable challenges related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,” Shobe noted.

To read more on the plan and those impacted by this move, click here.

Will we see further investments from Amazon in the area as it also continues to build up its physical grocery presence? AndNowUKnow will report the latest.

Amazon

HOUSTON, TX - Along with recent news of its new foodservice program, Sysco Corporation has also announced that it has named Aaron E. Alt as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective December 7. Alt’s predecessor Joel Grade will assume a newly created role of Executive Vice President, Business Development.

“I’m excited to join Sysco and help drive long-term, profitable growth for the company,” said Alt. “Sysco has a strong balance sheet, ample liquidity, and a compelling strategy to profitably grow the business through its strategic transformation. I look forward to working with the Sysco team to execute on the company’s growth objectives.”

Before joining Sysco, Alt most recently served as Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President of Sally Beauty Holdings and President of Sally Beauty Supply, according to a press release.

He also touts 20 years of experience in finance and executive leadership obtained through a variety of roles at companies like the Target Corporation, Sara Lee Corporation, and as a partner at the law firm Kirkland & Ellis in London.

“I’m pleased to welcome Aaron to our executive leadership team,” said Kevin Hourican, President and Chief Executive Officer. “He brings with him experience overseeing customer-centric businesses, a dynamic and flexible leadership approach as well as a proven ability to drive value creation at large organizations. The addition of Aaron to our executive leadership team will further Sysco’s ability to serve our customers and drive accelerated, profitable growth. I’m also confident that with his depth of expertise in our industry and his strong financial and operations experience, Joel will be instrumental in accelerating our growth and market leadership position in his new role.”

We here at ANUK would like to offer congratulations to Aaron on his newest role, and wish him luck as he takes over his duties at Sysco.

Sysco

NEWARK, DE - With an industry as vast as ours, we at ANUK are thankful to have leaders like Produce Marketing Association (PMA) keeping us up to date on the latest updates in fresh produce. Aiming to keep us all on the same page in terms of produce safety, PMA recently announced a pair of virtual meetings to discuss outbreaks in leafy greens, the proposed FDA regulation, and other timely safety topics. The meetings are planned specifically to engage experts to speak candidly about what is working, what is not working, and what the industry and regulatory partners can do moving forward.

“This is a critical time for the industry to become more engaged in the developments around produce safety and traceability right now,” said Dr. Max Teplitski, Chief Science Officer. “We are seeing the convergence of the impact of seasonal outbreaks; the development of new traceability tools and protocols; and the introduction of regulatory changes in the FDA’s Leafy Greens Action Plan, The New Era of Smarter Food Safety, and the proposed Traceability Rule. It’s essential that we are positioned not only to react to these changes but can take an active role in the leadership and innovation that will make produce safer for all consumers.”

The first event will be the Virtual Town Hall on Wednesday, November 18 at 12 p.m. ET. The November 18 meeting, “Cracking the Code of Seasonality in Leafy Green Outbreaks,” will feature a panel of food safety experts who will assess the safety of eating leafy greens. Utilizing the results of collaborative research, best practice implementations, and expanded traceability efforts, the session will help industry members understand the current challenges and identify important steps being taken to enhance produce safety.

A press release noted that the session will be moderated by Vice President of Produce Safety Dr. Trevor Suslow, and will feature Dr. Michele Jay-Russell of University of California, Davis; Neva Cochran, a registered dietician and nutrition communications consultant; Dr. Kristen Pogreba-Brown of University of Arizona; and Jim Brenan of SmartWash Solutions. Registration is free and open to all but is required in advance to access the meeting.

The second event, “FSMA 204 Record Keeping Rule: What FDA got right and what needs improvement!,” will take place on Thursday, November 19 at 2 p.m. ET. The session, sponsored by iTradeNetwork, will focus on the proposed FDA regulation on Requirements for Additional Traceability Records for Certain Foods. PMA has convened a Comments Taskforce made up of industry volunteers and members of that group will be present to share their thoughts and ideas on the proposed ruling. The session will be interactive and an opportunity for attendees to join and share their thoughts and comments. All interested in attending can register now.

“There has been extensive collaboration across the supply chain in the past year to address produce safety, traceability and the recurring outbreaks associated with certain products like leafy greens,” said Suslow. “While we all look to work with our regulatory partners to collectively progress towards solutions and improvement, there is much that can be done to improve communication, application of best practices, and focus on facts and not fault to better position our industry to enhance produce safety. We look forward to the opportunities ahead of us to bring together the industry to hear from the experts leading the conversations that will help move us all forward.”

Don’t miss out on these opportunities to learn more on produce safety!

Produce Marketing Association

BENGALURU, KA, INDIA - An undercover operation has halted the move of hundreds of pounds of marijuana hidden among what should have been a healthy transport of vegetables. Bengaluru authorities posed as traders in the illicit market, convincing an alleged dealer that they were shopping for nearly 17 kg (just under 40 pounds) of the drug. Upon making the arrest, 110 kg (about 242 pounds) of marijuana was recovered.

The police reported that the accused would move marijuana hidden in his vegetable supply truck from Chikkaballapur to Bengaluru (about a 30 mile stretch). Authorities accused the alleged dealer of maintaining a route through multiple cities to procure his supply, storing what he collected in his home in Chikkaballapur.

"We were stunned to see the way he had managed to store it in his house. It can only be done by a lot of experience as a professional smuggler," the police said, according to news source asianet newsable.

According to the Rajgopal Nagar police, the accused has been identified as a resident of Chikkaballapur district. The street value of the bust was not included in the report.

While it is never great to hear that produce has been tied to nefarious activities, we are always glad to report when one more of these is pulled off the street in any market our industry serves. Here’s to the success of fruits and vegetables arriving safely at their destinations!

JAPAN - It’s been days rather than weeks since Walmart sold its 25-year-long foothold in the Argentina retail market, and the retailer is making similar moves in Japan. The company has sold all but 15 percent of its stake in chain Seiyu. KKR is to purchase a majority stake with the new Rakuten subsidiary to acquire a minority stake, both teaming up with Walmart to help accelerate the banner’s digital transformation.

“This past year has been one of the most extraordinary in Seiyu’s rich 57-year history. Our associates have been exceptional, adapting brilliantly to serve customers at a time when they needed it most and outperforming against an ambitious transformation plan. We have been proud investors in this business over the past 18 years, and we are excited about its future under the new ownership structure,” said Judith McKenna, President and CEO of Walmart International. “Today’s announcement is important because its focus is on bringing together the right partners in the right structure to build the strongest possible local business. We look forward to supporting Seiyu’s growth and success, alongside KKR and Rakuten, as a minority investor.”

Walmart pointed to both KKR and Rakuten’s retail expertise, including track records of driving growth in e-commerce and digital marketing platforms across the globe, according to a press release.

Complementing Walmart’s goal to build strong, local businesses by bringing together both the right leaders and structure, the new ownership holders hope to help Seiyu become the local, innovative, value retailer of choice.

“KKR is pleased to invest in the success of Seiyu given the important role it plays in the lives of customers across the country,” Hiro Hirano, Co-Head of Asia Pacific Private Equity and CEO of Japan at KKR, said. “We are also excited by the prospect of working with Seiyu’s associates, who have dedicated themselves to supporting the business in spite of this year’s unprecedented challenges. We will focus on working closely with Seiyu’s management team and associates and leveraging the expertise of Rakuten and Walmart to enhance the customer experience, meet their ever-changing needs, and make shopping more accessible through digitalization. This investment is a true milestone for KKR in Japan and reinforces our commitment to the market as well as our continuing efforts to champion the long-term success of local businesses.”

Though financial terms were not disclosed in the release, the transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2021, subject to regulatory approvals.

Likewise, Kazunori Takeda, Group Executive Vice President and President of Commerce Company, Rakuten, Inc., pointed to the company’s building on its successful partnership on Rakuten Seiyu Netsuper and deep experience in online retail and data-based marketing.

“We look forward to accelerating digital transformation of Seiyu brick and mortar retail and further merging the best of offline and online retail to offer Seiyu customers the best possible OMO1 customer experience. The planned establishment of Rakuten DX Solution will also allow us to offer digital solutions optimized to transform retail at Seiyu and in new future partnerships with retailers across Japan,” Takeda concluded.

As this transition strengthens, will we see Walmart completely exit Japan’s market as it focuses its prowess elsewhere? ANUK will report.

Walmart U.S.

MILL VALLEY, CA - Retailers had better make room in the citrus sections of their organic displays because we recently heard word that TerraFresh Organics is prepared for a solid organic Mexican citrus season. The company will soon be providing a consistent supply of organic citrus to keep produce aisles stocked throughout the 2021 season.

“Citrus season is upon us, and TerraFresh Organics is prepared for our strongest season yet,” said Greg Holzman, Co-Founder and Managing Partner. “This year especially, shoppers are seeking out citrus for its health benefits and fresh flavor, and we’re excited to meet that need with a strong supply of organic citrus fruit."

TerraFresh Organics is providing Sweet Valencia Oranges from November 2020 through June 2021 and Rio Red Grapefruit from November 2020 through April 2021, a press release stated. The citrus is grown and packed in Sonora, Mexico, and will be packed in the company’s Earth Greens label. To build on its success, TerraFresh is seeking to continue its growth in future seasons.

The grower co-op will have a consistent supply with ample volumes to support programs and ad promotions in various pack styles. This season, retailers can capitalize on the significant volume of Valencia oranges in bags. Direct-to-retail, e-commerce, and in-house juice programs will all be major contributors to retail sales this season. TerraFresh Organics ensures a diverse variety of customers’ needs are met, and the program will be available to load out of Nogales, AZ.

As more premium produce enters the pipeline, keep an eye out for ANUK’s latest reports.

TerraFresh Organics