FRESNO, CA - As our brave farmworkers continue to work in the fields amidst smoke caused by recent California fires, two of our industry’s associations teamed up to help. The California Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA) and California Farmworker Foundation (CFF) recently distributed over 50,000 N-95 masks and single-use surgical masks to agricultural employees across the Central San Joaquin Valley.

“The wellness of Central Valley agricultural employees is of paramount importance, as they are an essential part in keeping the food supply chain moving every day,” stated CFFA President Ian LeMay. “We are grateful for the partnership between Fresno County Department of Agriculture, CFDA, and Governor Newsom’s OES for their support to provide these employees with the resources they need to keep them healthy.”

Both organizations noted in a press release that they were appreciative of the quick action and partnership between the Fresno County Agricultural Commissioner, California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), and Governor Gavin Newsom’s Office of Emergency Services (OES).

The organizations and associations collaborated to supply agricultural employees with much-needed protection while the air quality index levels are at unhealthy levels due to the wildfires in California.

“CFF’s mission is to provide support to California’s farmworkers and having the ability to distribute these N-95 masks through our Ambassador program enables employees to stay safe while working outside,” CFF Executive Director Hernan Hernandez added. "We are grateful to all of the partners that have contributed to this cause.”

Thank you to these associations for helping protect our most valuable workers.

California Fresh Fruit Association California Farmworker Association

CHICAGO, IL - Hazel Technologies continues to nab new industry partners, this time in the form of Dan Andrews Farms, a grower of premium melons. The campaign focused on the export of honeydew melons incorporating post-harvest quality technology from Hazel Tech.

“Globalization is increasing to levels never seen before, and as Dan and his veteran team can attest to, this trend is growing in the food supply chain as well," said Aidan Mouat, CEO of Hazel Technologies. “As food producers across the world just like Dan Andrews Farms seek to stay competitive in a global market while minimizing waste, we will see even more demand for food quality technologies.”

A small biodegradable packet placed in the box during packing, Hazel™ helps extend the shelf-life of fresh melons and fight costly rejections and food waste following transit in the supply chain, a press release explained.

Following initial testing, the technology received grant funding from the USDA for further development.

“Exporting melons is a high-risk business. Without employing the latest technologies to ensure quality during long transit times that can exceed 28 days, it’s difficult to be consistently successful,” commented Dan Andrews, Owner of Dan Andrews Farms. “Hazel Tech enables us to more confidently export higher volumes with more peace of mind.”

This product’s ease of use makes it a snap to incorporate in the field. Given that fresh melons are traditionally field-packed, post-harvest treatments can be extremely challenging unless the solution is very simple. Dan Andrews Farms employed the technology for its export containers again this year and once more gained positive feedback from import receivers.

Stick with AndNowUKnow as we cover more fresh produce ground.

Hazel Technologies Dan Andrews Farms

COLUMBUS, OH - Learning the art and language of produce is a challenge in the best of times. So it is an understatement to say I was impressed at the comfort level exuded by Yolanda Owens, who is settling into her role as DNO’s new Director of Marketing and Community Initiatives—a role she began at the end of March.

“It was an interesting start,” Yolanda agrees, having made the jump from community food involvement. “Especially at the beginning of shelter-in orders, to get introduced to the industry as an entirely different state of business was also being introduced, was quite an experience.”

Yet navigating a new industry while it is in a state of change is building the strongest of foundations for DNO’s newest leader, who has been making a home of her role by bridging any gap between the company and community partners during a time when information is crucial.

“I’m glad to be able to do this, as a professional and as a parent,” Yolanda shares. “We have been refocusing some of our energy on the value-added sector, as well as fresh programs, DoD Fresh and FFVP, that we have with schools, and both sides are reevaluating what that looks like. So, we have been working hard on ensuring resources for vendors around all foods, how to integrate them, and the conversations that need to be had around food to increase safe consumption.”

She explains that this atmosphere, while challenging, is a wonderful learning opportunity for all involved, especially around food.

“Because DNO knows the business so well, we know how to meet a very select need,” Yolanda says. “This is a great team that has been a huge help in my hitting the ground running. I’m very excited about all that we have going on. COVID-19 has positioned us in a unique space to serve schools in a different way, and it has been gratifying for me to navigate this position.”

With a number of programs and plans already being put in motion, Yolanda is quickly finding ways to draw from her experience in nutrition education programs and food banks to ensure that DNO is ready to be the strongest partner possible as back-to-school gets going.

As we continue to follow emerging industry members forging their own pathways in produce, AndNowUKnow will keep you up to date with the latest.

DNO Produce

FRANCE - That retail behemoth you sense stirring on the global stage—that would be the international powerhouse Carrefour, which recently reached an agreement to acquire 172 stores under the Supersol banner in Spain. With a strengthened position in the country, this move by Carrefour allows the retailer to accelerate its expansion in its growth formats. The enterprise value of the transaction is 78 million euros (approximately 92.7M USD).

Carrefour’s new strategy includes converting the acquired stores to the convenience (Express), supermarket (Market), and Supeco formats, according to a press release. Aligning with the Carrefour 2022 transformation plan, the company will be able to consolidate its position in Spain by diversifying its store network and strengthening its presence in growing formats.

Additional goals included Carrefour improving sales density and optimizing the cost structure. The 172 convenience stores and supermarkets are mainly located in Andalusia and the Madrid region. The company also notes that this move will contribute to the development of food e-commerce, with the stores eventually becoming new order pick-up points.

The transaction is subject to customary conditions and is expected to close at the beginning of 2021.

With global retailers striking international moves, how will the market look as we anticipate the end of 2020 and the beginning of 2021? Only time will tell. That, and a whole lot of progressive strategies!

Carrefour

THERMAL, CA - The people of produce are as strong an aspect as the product. Understanding this, North Shore Greenhouses, Inc. is investing in enhancing partnerships and boosting consumers’ understanding with the naming of two leaders: Vivianna Greene has been welcomed as Marketing Manager and Brittney Bubb has been promoted to Creative Director for the company.

“I am elated to be a part of an organization with such an amazing history and a strong foundation, built by a truly talented group of people,” Greene stated. “Suzette, Brittney, and I make a wonderful team and I am excited to work alongside them. With our joined efforts and creativity, we are aiming to bring new, long term successes to the North Shore Living^® Herbs & Greens brand.”

In her new role, Greene will be responsible for leading the company’s marketing strategy, specifically focusing on interactive campaigns for retail partners. Bringing experience that combines sales and marketing across both produce and grocery, Greene certainly has the portfolio to succeed in this latest endeavor.

To complement her is Bubb, who has been with the company for six years and taken the lead on the recent rebranding. Responsible for all the company’s design work, she said in a press release that she is looking forward to utilizing her innate sense of creativity in innovating new ways to connect to consumers.

“We are excited to welcome Vivianna to the North Shore Team. Her energy, enthusiasm, and passion make her a great asset and team member,” Bubb added. “With all the foundational work that has been done over the past several years, I’m looking forward to continuing work on defining the North Shore Living Herbs & Greens brand voice and really honing in on our messaging to consumers. Focusing on expanding our brand reach and educating on the sustainable, innovative ways our products take freshness and flavor to a new level.”

General Manager Milas Russell shared his enthusiasm for the recent move and how it will add to the work he and the team have done over the past year to lead an inventive expansion.

“The energy from both Vivianna and Brittney as team members boosts excitement within the entire North Shore Family,” Russell stated. “We’ve got big goals for the next five years, let alone the next two, with retail and consumer development at the center of our focus. Creating leading-edge campaigns is just one way in which we can share our support as a company. Our goal is to build a community around the North Shore Living Herbs & Greens brand.”

And it sounds like this is just the beginning of North Shore Greenhouses’ next step in growth, as the company noted it is looking to scale its teams across the board. As we continue to keep an eye out for the latest, AndNowUKnow will report.

North Shore Greenhouses

TRAVERSE CITY, MI - It’s hard not to judge a book by its cover. That’s why at North Bay Produce, we are rolling out all-new packaging that puts an emphasis on the quality of our products. In doing so, we’ve further aligned ourselves with outstanding customer service and our unrivaled team of leaders.

Here’s What’s In Store with North Bay Produce…

Fresh, vibrant, and clean colors make these packs pop at retail and drive up the average ticket price. Reinforced by the superior product inside, your shoppers will keep coming back for North Bay fruits and vegetables.

The brilliant aqua color found on our conventional packages reflects the clear waters of Grand Traverse Bay where we are headquartered. Our organic packs are now embellished with a bright green color to reinforce the clean and green values we are known for.

Consumers agree with us, overwhelmingly choosing our updated designs before any other selection in the produce aisle. With our produce on your shelf, there will be no question of quality in shoppers’ minds.

Fresh and beautifully packaged produce is never out of reach as our 32 widespread grower-owner operations across the Americas distribute to our two strategically located, highly expansive warehouses. We also utilize several of our growers’ packaging facilities throughout the world to improve efficiencies and assure the freshest produce is available to consumers as soon as possible.

The North Bay Produce stamp, representative of our global partnerships, has garnered decades of industry influence both on the shelf and in the fridge. An enlarged logo on these new packs makes for simple yet effective brand messaging as we continue to grow our diverse fan base.

Our new packaging also delivers on the health-forward front, emblazoned with the American Heart Association’s seal to reinforce that fresh produce is desirable in more ways than one. The results are in, and North Bay consumers find this update to be yet another incentive to buy our premium produce.

A grower-owned cooperative, North Bay Produce is rooted in the freshest food possible, allowing us to deliver on our time-tested brand promise: From our farms to your family. Naturally.

Thank you for watching What’s In Store.

North Bay Produce

GLENNVILLE, GA - ’Tis a lovely day to expand leadership teams in the produce industry! G&R Farms clearly agrees as it welcomes Jon Dorminey to serve as Director of Operations. Dorminey will be responsible for long-range planning, cost analysis, revamping policies and procedures, and overseeing inventory, shipping, and production staff.

Dorminey has spent his career working in education. In his previous position, he served as Vice President of the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) in which he was responsible for all athletic components of GISA, including state playoffs, eligibility, rule enforcement, and board training.

Prior to his time at GISA, he served as Head of School at both Pinewood Christian Academy and Robert Toombs Christian Academy and was responsible for all aspects of the K3-12 college preparatory school and managed more than 60 professional employees.

According to a press release, Dorminey received his BS in Sports Management from Georgia Southern University in 1996 and later obtained his Masters degree in Business Administration from Georgia Southwestern State University in 1998, while also serving as a graduate Assistant Basketball Coach.

“I’ve known Jon for a long time and we’re excited to have him join our team. With his exceptional organizational and managerial skills, he’ll be an asset to our organization,” stated Walt Dasher, Vice President. “As part of our strategic planning process, we’re making many positive changes as we strive to develop the most consistent, sustainable, and sweet-tasting product on the market.”

Congratulations to Jon Dorminey on this next step in his career!

G&R Farms

SANTA PAULA, CA - Lemon-loving consumers may argue that their citrus-infused favorites are the best of the best, but according to Limoneira Company, the zest is yet to come. In fact, the supplier recently announced it is launching a Peelin’ Good - The Zest is Yet to Come tour as part of its Take a Healthy Stand/Nature’s Pharmacy™ educational platform. The tour will kick off Tuesday, September 1, and will “travel virtually” coast to coast, visiting 18 U.S. cities and Toronto, Canada, each featuring some of the world’s greatest retail hotspots.

“The current pandemic has demonstrated how important health is,” said Alex Teague, COO. “This topic and supporting communities have been part of Limoneira’s foundation for 126 years. Our company’s founders were entrepreneurs, and that is why we sponsor the Lemonade Day organization. This tour reinforces health and rolling up one’s sleeves to get the job done.”

The local influencers who will champion this tour are leaders in the food and drink space and have followers in the several thousands, according to a press release. They will be sharing delicious recipes with Limoneira lemons and other citrus as well as fun tips for the whole family while directing them to the best grocery stores around.

Each month, the influencers will share tips and highlight the important work that professional Retail Dietitians/Nutritionists do. The Retail Dietitians Business Alliance (RDBA) serves as the professional group to almost 2,000 retail dietitians throughout the U.S. and Canada and is sponsored by Limoneira.

“Lemons are one of the healthiest things that can be consumed, and they’re extremely versatile. Our influencers will be sharing not only delicious and healthy recipes, but the many ways lemons can be used in beauty, green cleaning, and fun lifestyles,” added John Carter, Vice President of Global Sales.

A spotlight will also be shown on Lemonade Day, a fun, experiential program that teaches youth how to start, own, and operate their very own business: a lemonade stand. Each year, in participating cities, youth have the opportunity to experience entrepreneurship by setting up their business during their city's community-wide Lemonade Day.

To lock down citrus sales all year long, tap into this exciting initiative and connect with Limoneira today.

Limoneira Company

WATSONVILLE, CA - California Giant Berry Farms and Measure to Improve, LLC (MTI) recently announced the Sustainably Grown certification of Satsuma Farms, strategic strawberry grower-partner for California Giant, under the rigorous standard of SCS Global Services. This comprehensive standard uses a triple bottom-line approach, addressing issues related to social, environmental, and economic sustainability, and mirrors California Giant’s own People, Planet, Product model.

“Sustainably Grown is a challenging certification, but it was the best one for California Giant because it aligns with our own long-term approach to sustainability,” Joe Barsi, President of California Giant, commented. “This certification reflects our commitment to treating the environment and the people involved in our supply chain right.”

According to the press release, Satsuma Farms, located in Watsonville, California, is one of the first strawberry growers in the world to achieve the Sustainably Grown certification from SCS Global Services.

“Rich Uto and his team at Satsuma Farms did a great job on their Sustainably Grown certification audit,” Kevin Warner, Manager, Sustainable Agriculture at SCS, stated. “At SCS, we set a high bar for sustainability in agriculture with a thorough investigation of practices to ensure the protection of farmworkers, environmental sustainability, and the economic resilience of the farming operation. Satsuma Farms exceeded our expectations in meeting the stringent requirements of our standard. Working with Measure to Improve expedited the audit, saving time and money for the client, and ensuring a smooth process in certifying the world’s first Sustainably Grown Certified strawberries.”

With MTI’s support, California Giant launched a pilot certification project at Satsuma Farms, who leases land from California Giant, in 2018.

MTI provided hands-on guidance at Satsuma Farms for the duration of the pilot, which culminated in this landmark certification in August 2020.

“Food safety requirements expanded rapidly over a short period of time. Sustainability is the next step for growers,” said Rich Uto, Owner of Satsuma Farms. “We live differently now, and we need to do things differently. There’s no time to waste—just make the time and get it done.”

Recent years have shown a marked increase in buyer and consumer interest in produce grown sustainably, with emphasis on equitable social practices.

“Sustainability certifications provide third-party verification and an easily recognized seal of approval that helps organizations effectively market their social, environmental, and ethical responsibility while avoiding the pitfalls of greenwashing," said Nikki Cossio, CEO and Founder of Measure to Improve. “Certification is a worthwhile investment if it aligns with your business values and your customers' values.”

California Giant has no plans to slow its sustainability efforts despite the pandemic. The company will continue working with MTI to roll the certification program out to more of its growers over the next few years.

“In piloting Sustainably Grown at Satsuma Farms, California Giant has positioned itself to have a credible response to this growing market demand for sustainability assurance. California Giant’s commitment to its growers, customers, and communities is now underpinned by our robust third-party certification, and it has differentiated itself in an increasingly competitive business landscape by being a first-mover toward Sustainably Grown certification in the berry industry,” added Warner.

A hearty congratulations on this momentous achievement! Stay up to date in the sustainability game with ANUK.

California Giant Berry Farms

OXNARD, CA - A fruit so noble as the avocado deserves the fiercest leaders in the industry. Ensuring that its own green gold is championed by the highest ranking fresh produce advocates, Mission Produce has announced the promotion of Stephen Fink to Vice President of North American Sales.

“I’m excited to assume this opportunity during a pivotal stage of category growth in the United States and beyond,” said Fink. “We have a strong sales team, and I am looking forward to reinforcing Mission’s commitment to servicing customers and maintaining a market lead position.”

Fink’s new executive responsibilities include overseeing retail, foodservice, and wholesale sales strategies throughout North America. He will also manage a professional sales team, plus support staff, and provide top-level leadership to maximize business results.

As noted in a press release, Fink joined Mission in 2012 and quickly rose to positions of increasing responsibility. In his tenure at the company, he has held management roles in inventory and sales and most recently served as the Senior Director of Sales.

“Stephen is a trusted strategist, confident leader, and keen industry expert,” said Ross Wileman, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Mission recognizes employees for their leadership and dedication, and this promotion reflects that. Stephen has made invaluable contributions to our domestic sales division, and his background and skills will help further build our retail, foodservice, and wholesale businesses.”

Congratulations to Stephen Fink on this next step in his career!

Mission Produce