OXNARD, CA - Last month, Mission Produce officially announced the launch of its Initial Public Offering (IPO). After much anticipation, the company has now released more details surrounding the launch, reporting that its IPO will be offered at a price to the public of $12.00 per share.

The shares are expected to begin trading on the NASDAQ Global Select Market today, October 1, 2020, under the symbol “AVO.” The closing of the offering is expected to occur on October 5, 2020, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. BofA Securities, J.P. Morgan, and Citigroup are acting as bookrunning managers for the offering. Roth Capital Partners, Stephens Inc., and D.A. Davidson & Co. are acting as co-managers.

A registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and was declared effective on September 30, 2020.

For additional information, click here.

How will this IPO continue to deliver growth for Mission? Keep coming back to AndNowUKnow for more.

Mission Produce

BAKERSFIELD, CA - When I hear the word innovative, a few industry leaders come to mind, and one of them happens to be Bolthouse Farms. After just releasing new plant-based products for both its Protein Keto™ beverages and Refrigerated Dressings line, the company is breaking out onto the scene with another product release: Superfood Immunity Boost, an immunity-boosting beverage. I recently sat down with AJ Bernstein, Vice President of Marketing, to discuss the new product and how Bolthouse is staying at the top of the plant-based market.

“Right now, consumers are looking for ways to keep their immunity up and strong, so we created a brand-new beverage that directly supports healthy immune systems,” AJ tells me. “When it comes to eating healthfully, people like to have variety and not everybody has the same tastes. However, if you make it taste delicious, then people will have an easier time incorporating the product into their lives. That was a no-brainer for us.”

Packed with elderberries, echinacea, zinc, and vitamin C and D, the new Superfood Immunity Boost is a delicious and easy way to get the essential nutrients consumers are looking for, not only during the COVID-19 pandemic but especially as cold and flu season is rolling in.

Demand for easy nutrition also comes with the need for value. Consumers are looking for ways to save not only on time but resources as well. The new Superfood Immunity blend comes in a large, 52-oz bottle that is perfect for the family or between grocery trips and has a shelf-life of about 45 days once it’s in stores. Joining the 52-oz lineup are other fan-favorites such as C-Boost, Green Goodness, Multi-V Goodness, 100% Pomegranate, and Carrot Ginger Turmeric.

“We heard loud and clear from our consumers that watching their wallets was a really important factor, and these value-size bottles are a perfect fit for them,” AJ explains. “In this format, every glass or cup that they drink provides more value. We’re here to provide people with a variety of options to get essential nutrients into their body in a tasty format while also keeping in mind the consumers’ budget and needs.”

Released as part of Bolthouse Farms’ long-term vision Plants Powering People™, the Superfood Immunity Boost is available now to ship to retail partners along with the other five flavors in both 52 oz and 15.2 oz bottles.

With eyes on the horizon, AJ assures me more innovations are to come and teases some exciting plans surrounding one of Bolthouse Farms’ biggest products—fresh carrots. As Bolthouse and more in the industry continue innovating, you can bet ANUK will keep our eyes and ears open.

Bolthouse Farms

BENTONVILLE, AR - Each retail chain has a certain je ne sais quoi unique to their footprint. Walmart is no different, with consumers long being driven by the retailer’s welcoming big-box format. Now Walmart is setting out to elevate its shopping experience, unveiling a long-awaited new format with innovation at the forefront.

“Today, our imagination becomes a reality as we unveil a completely new look and feel focusing on a digitally enabled shopping experience,” said Janey Whiteside, EVP and Chief Customer Officer. “Developed through a customer-centric lens, the design creates an elevated experience that appeals to shoppers through a sleek design aesthetic, a layout that spotlights products, and an end-to-end digital navigation that guides customers throughout their journeys.”

According to a statement penned by Whiteside, this monumental transformation has been several years in the making. Convenience reigns supreme in 2020, which is why Walmart aims to streamline the shopping experience by saving its customers time and becoming more familiar with the retailer’s brand.

Walmart’s new format includes:

• Omni-Shopping Spark and Optimized Entrance - updated signage on the exterior and interior of stores to reflect the Walmart app icon, creating an instant omni-shopping experience in the customer’s mind
• Airport Inspiration and Product Spotlight - developed simple yet thoughtful designs to replicate airport navigation efficiencies and optimized product layout, bringing greater visibility to key items
• Contactless Checkout and Payment - implemented self-checkout kiosks and contactless payment solutions, including Walmart Pay and Scan & Go services

Whiteside divulged that Walmart will be rolling out the new format by the end of the fiscal year at 200 Supercenters, with plans to reach 1,000 stores by the next fiscal year.

As retail competition continues to heat up, keep a tab open for us at ANUK.

Walmart

SALINAS, CA - While all good things must eventually come to an end, who’s to say that something equally good isn’t waiting just around the corner? This is the case as Barry Bedwell announces his retirement as President and CEO of The California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF), but, in turn, two new leaders, Dwight Ferguson and Abby Taylor-Silva, will be stepping in to take the reins. Ferguson will take over as President and CEO, while Taylor-Silva will join the team as the new Executive Vice President.

“I could not be happier joining Ag Leadership as President/CEO,” said Ferguson. “I believe in the mission and vision of the foundation and very much appreciate its history, culture, and contributions made to California agriculture. I also recognize the excellent quality of its programs and look forward to working with all stakeholders, especially the board, alumni, and staff, to build on CALF’s rich tradition of success.”

Ferguson will bring over 30 years in both the produce and floral industries to his new role, largely serving in leadership positions at some of the industries’ most well-known companies. In his most recent role, Ferguson held a position with Naturipe Farms, according to a press release.

“Dwight has a track-record of growing ag businesses and the teams needed to build them,” said Michael Young, CALF Board Chairman. “He is a recognized industry leader who is known for his management, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.”

Ferguson holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from Ohio University and a Master’s Degree in Management from Aquinas College.

Joining Ferguson will be Taylor-Silva in her new role as Executive Vice President. Before coming to CALF, she served for 10 years as Vice President of Policy and Communications for the Grower-Shipper Association of Central California.

“I am delighted to join this team,” said Taylor-Silva. “The foundation made a distinctive and long-lasting impact on my personal and professional development, providing me with tools, perspective, and an awareness-of-self that directly impacted my ability to effectively lead in various capacities. I look forward to the opportunity to build upon this extraordinary program, serve the foundation, and support the next generation of California agricultural leaders.”

Taylor-Silva has a history in the Salinas region of California as she is a native of Monterey and San Benito counties. Additionally, she serves on the Boards of the Salinas Rotary Club and the Community Foundation for Monterey County. Taylor-Silva is a proud alumni of the Ag Leadership Program’s Class 45.

“We are extremely pleased to have Abby join our new leadership team,” said Young. “She is a true servant leader who will help move the foundation forward through these uncertain times.”

The recent addition of Taylor-Silva and Ferguson comes shortly after Michael Young was welcomed as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors, showing the foundation's commitment to leadership and growth.

“I am excited to announce that we are cultivating a new way forward as we continue to provide the premier leadership program in the nation,” continued Young. “By building a strong team to meet these challenging times, we can continue to grow leaders who make a difference. The addition of our new Board members, along with our existing board, round out what is a dynamic leadership group that is reflective of the diverse nature of California agriculture. They, along with our new leadership team, will propel the foundation on a path of new horizons, positive growth, and a sustainable future.”

We here at ANUK love to see new leaders take the helm of such integral industry operations. We wish Abby and Dwight luck in their new roles.

California Agricultural Leadership Foundation

HOUSTON, TX - Change is happening all around us, and Sysco Corporation is following the pattern with its announcement that Tim Ørting will be joining the company as Executive Vice President and President of Foodservice Operations—International.

Ørting will officially step into his new role beginning on January 4, 2021, where he will lead Sysco’s International Operations in Canada, Europe, the Bahamas, and Latin America while based in Sysco’s London Office. As part of his new position, he will oversee development and execution of key growth strategies across these locations.

“Tim is an experienced food executive having led commercial and supply chain teams across multiple diverse markets and geographies,” said Kevin Hourican, President and Chief Executive Officer. “His strong track record of delivering results and extensive international experience, including expertise related to mergers and acquisitions, integrations, joint ventures, and new market entry, uniquely position him to lead and grow our international businesses."

Before joining Sysco, Ørting has held a leadership role at Arla, the international dairy cooperative, for over 30 years. According to a press release, he currently serves as the Executive Vice President, International for the dairy producer and leads a multinational team across more than 30 countries, showing his penchant for leadership.

With such vast knowledge of the industry and over three decades of experience, Ørting is set to help Sysco continue to grow and expand its international business. We wish Tim the best of luck in his new role and are excited to see what the partnership will hold for the future of Sysco’s growth strategies.

Sysco

SEATTLE, WA - Major growth is in Charlie’s Produce's plans as the employee-owned produce company has recently acquired Muir Copper Canyon Farms. As of September 1, 2020, Charlie’s Produce has integrated systems with Muir to enlarge sourcing options, pricing systems, invoicing, and online sales for customers. With this acquisition, Charlie’s Produce will extend its network of seven distribution centers throughout the West.

“We are excited to welcome the Muir Copper Canyon team into the Charlie’s Produce family,” said Jeremy Smith, President of Charlie’s Produce. “We are constantly seeking ways to improve our services on behalf of our customers and grower partners. The addition of Muir Copper Canyon Farms will expand our network to the great Intermountain region. We look forward to working with local growers and maintaining the great customer relationships Muir has established in over six generations of serving this market.”

With this transition, Muir will gain greater purchasing power for local, regional, and national products, as well as bring in new ones. Charlie’s can also provide a deep personnel force and offer Muir the opportunity to expand retail capability and allow employees to build equity, which is a great thing.

Over the past five years, Charlie’s Produce has expanded rapidly through increased services, produce processing, geographic extension, and acquisition. According to the press release, the company opened a new distribution center in Los Angeles in 2015; entered the Boise, Idaho, market in 2017 through the purchase of Northwest Produce; and added Better Life Organics sales and distribution into its Los Angeles division in 2019.

“We could not have been more fortunate to acquire a produce distributor who is also passionate about produce, their employees, and the success of our customer and partners,” said JT Travers, COO at Charlie’s Produce. “We’re ecstatic about the opportunity to expand our footprint and distribution network and we have a great team of people who are highly customer-centric and dedicated in their roles and responsibilities.”

Since William S. Muir founded his farm in 1850, Muir Copper Canyon Farms has provided exceptional fresh produce, customer service, and innovative product offerings to local merchants, restaurants, and neighbors.

While the company has grown over the past five generations, the Muir family remains committed to the same ideals that William first began to cultivate: Integrity, Quality, Industry, Value.

“We are excited about the transition to Charlie’s Produce and to combine with a respected company that aligns with our values and standards when it comes to fresh food distribution,” said Phil Muir, Owner of Muir Copper Canyon Farms. “Charlie’s Produce will be able to provide us with a more efficient warehouse management and logistics system, as well as enhanced services and products to customers. We look forward to continuing to expand and providing our customers with strengthened service and product offerings that help their businesses continue to thrive.”

For more developments in the industry, keep checking back to ANUK.

Charlie’s Produce

CINCINNATI, OH - It has been said time and again that every end marks a new beginning. This old adage once again speaks to reality as Robert Clark, SVP of Supply Chain, Manufacturing, and Enterprise Sourcing, has announced his retirement after more than 35 years with Kroger. As Clark steps down, Gabriel Arreaga will begin in his new role, taking over for Clark as Senior Vice President of Supply Chain beginning October 1.

In his new role, Arreaga will be responsible for the supply chain organization including logistics, inventory, and replenishment. He most recently served as SVP of Supply Chain for Mondelez International. During his tenure there, he led a team of over 14,000 employees within the network of 41 internal and external factories, 49 fulfillment centers, direct-to-store branches, and logisitics and product development. Arreaga has also served as VP of Operations for Stanley Black and Decker as well as roles at Unilever.

"Gabriel's proven history of outstanding leadership and management of complex supply chain and logistics functions will accelerate our ability to provide a seamless shopping experience for our customers," noted Rodney McMullen, Chairman and CEO. "We welcome Gabriel and his 22 years of leadership experience in the industry and look forward to adding his fresh perspective and insights to our growing operations."

Arreaga holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Del Valle University and an MBA from INCAE, a top global MBA program led by Harvard University's curriculum located in Central America.

He also has completed several advanced management programs at Harvard University and served as a research assistant for MIT faculty on Corporate Strategy.

"We thank Robert [Clark] for his 35 years of dedicated service and leadership," McMullen continued. "He's been an instrumental leader at all levels of our organization and has built collaborative teams and developed business strategies that have advanced our operations and uplifted our associates and customers."

As the two industry leaders begin down different paths, we here at ANUK wish them the best of luck and look forward to seeing what the future holds at Kroger.

Kroger

MONTEREY, CA - Change is the lifeblood of innovation and growth, and that is why it is so exciting to see people being promoted and changing positions. Growers Express recently made some changes of its own by announcing that Kirk Wagner is being promoted to Chief Operating Officer. With over 20 years of industry experience, Wagner will serve as an integral part of the company as it continues to expand.

“I am truly honored to continue to add value to the Growers Express team and our efforts to take this company to new heights,” said Wagner. “I have been invested in the operations of the company for many years and look forward to supporting our long history of groundbreaking innovation and the many opportunities in front of us.”

In his new role, Wagner will join the executive team and will report directly to Tom Bryne, President, as well as Mark Dendle, CEO. Together, the team will continue to set company performace goals, develop and implement new strategies, and create business plans and procedures, according to a press release. In addition to serving as the new COO, Wager will remain on board as the company’s General Counsel, which he has served as since first starting in 2011.

Prior to working with Growers Express in his starting role as General Counsel, Wagner served as an attorney at law firms in Monterey, California; Houston, Texas; and Las Vegas, Nevada.

“With over 20 years of working with food industry suppliers, manufacturers, and customers up and down the fresh and frozen supply chain, Kirk brings an incredible breadth of experience in building relationships and problem-solving that has been critical for the company during a time of remarkable growth,” said Byrne.

Growers Express appoints Wagner to this new role as the company continues to make innovation a key priority. As the new COO, he will focus on growth through new and significant achievements following in line with Growers Express’ recent operational acheivments like the launch of Green Giant Fresh™ Cauliflower Crumbles chopped cauliflower as well as the many other value-added products the company has helped to launch.

We look forward to seeing what Kirk will bring to the Growers Express team, and wish him all the luck in the world as he continues his journey with the company.

Growers Express

KINGSVILLE, ONTARIO, CANADA - In an ever-shifting market, the key to advancement, it would seem, is new technology. Red Sun Farms is wholeheartedly embracing new technology by lighting up a high-tech greenhouse that will ensure a year-round local supply from Canada.

"Introducing these new technologies into the greenhouses will allow Red Sun Farms to offer year-round supply from Ontario," Jim DiMenna, President, remarked in a press release. “Usually over the winter months, we ship our product from Mexico to Canada; however, this new lighting technology will allow us to give some of our Canadian customer's limited products over the winter months."

In order to support this year-round project of Ontario-grown produce, Red Sun Farms is building a new state-of-the-art facility with a dedicated, partially lit growing area. This investment, the company noted, will allow for a longer growing season for specialty tomatoes.

Additionally, Red Sun’s second project includes 42 lit acres, all of which are dedicated to growing year-round in both organic and conventional farming. New technology allows for the greenhouse grower to extend its growing season into the winter months. This is a direct response to the consumer demand for local produce year-round.

And last, but certainly not least, Red Sun is introducing a first-of-its-kind tech that will supply Ontario peppers 365 days a year. This unique technology, the company explained, recreates and modulates the full spectrum of the sun's natural light, essentially enabling the farm to deseasonalize productions.

We’re here to cover the latest in the competitive greenhouse sector, so stay tuned.

Red Sun Farms

MCALLEN, TX - As it doubles down on expansion, Fox Packaging has acquired additional press in the form of a UTECO printing press. This will be added to the company’s dedicated printing facility.

“Expanding our manufacturing capacity is essential to meet growing customer demand and it also presents Fox Packaging with an opportunity to make fast turnaround on large print runs,” shared Lucas Fox, Director of Operations.

According to a press release, the UTECO press is a modern equipment solution that executes unmatchable print quality, extremely fast job changes, and can effortlessly run up to 10 colors, with four-color process and Pantone colors.

“This technology visually captures brands' colors and messaging in a way that catches a consumer’s eye and builds brand recognition and loyalty,” said Victoria Lopez, Marketing. “As a member of the Sustainable Packaging Coalition®, we are an approved printer of the How2Recycle® label, a program that highlights a universal recycling language on packaging to provide consistent recycling information.”

The UTECO Onyx adds to Fox Packaging’s overall capacity as it strategically retires units that have served their lifetime. Implementing new technology helps maintain competitive lead-times with expanded printing capabilities and is overall more efficient for long print runs.

“Our teams understand that circularity is a critical component of service and operational competence,” continued Fox. “UTECO flexographic printing equipment is environmentally friendly and responsibly uses energy, a feature we are exceptionally proud of.”

As the company continues to update its equipment, every update is made to advantageously benefit its operations. Both retailers and consumers are expecting mindful manufacturing processes, and Fox Packaging’s constant improvement on waste reduction and sustainable initiatives makes it an ideal industry partner.

Check back in with AndNowUKnow as we continue to cover the latest in the fresh produce biz.

Fox Packaging