LOS ANGELES, CA - It may be a new year, but we are still very much in the winter season here on the West Coast. Shoppers this week may be pleasantly surprised, though, as Southern California’s retail shelves are sporting an array of fresh, summertime fruit in various categories. The fare hailed from Chile, traveling for 12 days on the bulk vessel, Ice River, until it arrived at the Port of Los Angeles on January 9. According to a press release from the Chilean Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA), this is Chile's first shipment of the season, unloading 4,500 pallets of fresh grapes, cherries, peaches, nectarines, plums, and blueberries.

“Demos, digital coupons, kids cooking classes, and social media contests are just some of the programs we’re currently running with retailers big and small,” said Karen Brux, Managing Director of the CFFA. “We’re also further supporting retail sales through our consumer campaign, which includes extensive social media promotions, as well as our new ‘Super Fruit Bowl’ campaign that’s currently running with ESPN.”

Cherries, blueberries, grapes, and stonefruit (peaches, plums, and nectarines) are now in market, with merchandising support available to retailers through the U.S. and Canada.

SSA Marine Terminal Manager, Kevin Nielsen, and Office Administrator Lacey Patalano received the Ice River vessel, and will continue to receive weekly Chilean fresh fruit vessels now through April. Steve Hattendorf, Western Region Merchandiser for the CFFA, greeted the first West Coast vessel of the 2019-2020 Chilean winter fruit season and toured the 14-acre facility in San Pedro, California.

Through January 6, Chile had exported the following volumes to the U.S.:

• Cherries 4,386 tons
• Blueberries 30,194 tons
• Grapes: 17,067 tons
• Nectarines: 5,114 tons
• Peaches: 5,419 tons
• Plums: 2,276 tons

Information on specific fruits, as well as recipes and promotional material, can be found here. As new harvests continue to come to fruition, keep clicking back to AndNowUKnow.

Chilean Fresh Fruit Association

IDAHO FALLS, ID - ’Tis a bright Tuesday morning when we get to report on new folks joining the teams of companies we know and love. For Eagle Eye Produce, this new team member comes in the form of Joe Ange, who is the company’s newest Director of Business Development.

“Eagle Eye Produce has experienced tremendous growth in the past 20+ years across multiple commodities, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to become part of a great team of leaders in our industry,” remarked Ange in a recent press release.

Prior to his role with Eagle Eye Produce, Ange was the Purchasing Director of Markon Cooperative for 18 years. Before joining Markon, Ange earned a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Business at California Polytechnic State University in 2001.

With a wealth of knowledge regarding the produce industry, Ange noted that he is excited to help build Eagle Eye’s commodity programs.

Ange will continue to serve on the Produce Marketing Association’s (PMA) Board of Directors.

Congratulations to Joe on this next step in his career!

Eagle Eye Produce

WATSONVILLE, CA - What better way to kick off 2020 than with a newly-fortified executive team? California Giant Berry Farms did just this, recently welcoming Sean Martin as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Martin will supersede Dan Nicola as he begins his transition into retirement after serving as CFO at the company for more than 30 years. Nicola has been a strong and vital asset and a long-term friend to all at Cal Giant through his expansive and prosperous career.

“I’d like to thank Dan for his many years of service to California Giant,” said President, Joe Barsi. “Dan’s plan was to retire in 2020, and the addition of Sean was part of the company’s succession plan for key executive positions, with Dan remaining with the company until October to assist with the transition. We are very excited about the addition of Sean Martin to the Executive Team with a background in large consumer goods companies and berry industry experience making him a great fit for the company.”

According to a press release, Martin comes to Cal Giant with an extensive background, having earned an MBA from the University of Louisville. Additionally, he brings with him over 30 years of financial leadership with both public and private companies, including six years in the berry industry.

“I’m excited to be a part of the California Giant Team, back in the Santa Cruz County, and look forward to enjoying more of the wonderful community here,” said Martin.

Martin has expertise in strategic planning, organizational restructuring, reduction of business risk, business evaluation, and financial management, with an emphasis on establishing and building strong teams for finance, accounting, and information technology.

The berry company will continue to build upon its strategic plan set in place by Barsi, developing a high-performance management team and maintaining company culture as we move through 2020.

Congratulations to Sean Martin on this exciting opportunity!

California Giant Berry Farms

SAN BERNADINO, CA - You know the saying, you’re only as good as the people who work for you? (Or did I just make that up?) Regardless of that phrase’s origin story, it’s one we should all take to heart, just as Stater Bros. Markets has. The Southern California-based chain recently announced the hiring of its new Senior Vice President of Human Resources, Jerrold Williams, meaning that it’s right on track to walking in that phrase’s footsteps.

Prior to joining the grocer, Williams held various roles of increasing responsibility for leading packaged goods and retail service companies such as Kellogg Company, where he ultimately earned the role as the Head of Human Resources for the largest sales region in the company. He also served Daymon Worldwide in the capacity of Vice President, Human Resources before advancing to the position of Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer.

Williams most recently held the position of Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer for Hostess Brands. Williams earned his Master of Business Administration from Western Michigan University and holds a Juris Doctor Degree from the Michigan State College of Law.

“The grocery business is also a people business,” said Pete Van Helden, CEO. “I’m confident Jerrold will fit right into our ‘Family’ and his extensive experience will add significant value as we continually strive to attract, develop, and engage strong talent now and in the future."

In this role, Williams will report to President Greg McNiff. He will oversee the Stater Bros.’ Administrative Division, which includes the company’s Human Resources, Labor Relations, Equal Employment Opportunity, Compliance, Insurance Adminstration, and Workers Compensation department. According to a press release, he is also charged with advancing Stater Bros.’ leadership development and career progression processes. Additionally, Williams will join the Company’s Executive Management Team which devises the company’s key strategic initiatives.

Congratulations to Jerrold on this new role! As we continue to report on the latest in retail executive news, keep reading AndNowUKnow.

Stater Bros. Markets

HOUSTON, TX - The individuality that leaders bring to the table inevitably impacts the business they lead, especially when it comes to such pivotal roles as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The global foodservice distribution company, Sysco Corporation, recently announced some important changes to its leadership team, stating that current President and CEO Tom Bené will be stepping down from his roles effective January 31. Bené will stay on as an Executive Advisor until March 1, to be available to assist with a smooth and orderly transition of leadership. The Board of Directors unanimously elected Kevin Hourican as the company’s new President and CEO, who will start on February 1.

“I have been honored to lead Sysco over the last few years and I am incredibly proud of all that our team has accomplished,” said Bené. “Sysco’s leading market position in the foodservice industry, our unique capabilities, and talented associates have positioned us well for the future. It has truly been an honor and a privilege to work alongside our 69,000 dedicated associates to bring our strategy to life.”

According to a press release, Sysco’s board believes that these senior leadership changes will enable the company to accelerate performance, fully capitalize on its scale advantages, and drive meaningful operating improvements. Specifically, the board believes Hourican’s expertise across key company capabilities—sales, supply chain, logistics, operations, and digital technologies—will unlock meaningful value for customers and other key stakeholders. Hourican most recently served as Executive Vice President of CVS Health and President of CVS Pharmacy and is a proven business leader with two decades of experience driving market-leading growth for large organizations.

“I am thrilled to join the Sysco team. Sysco has an exceptional business model and significant headroom for profitable growth,” Hourican commented. “I look forward to working with Ed, the Board, and the talented global team to continue the company’s success and identify new opportunities to enhance our market leadership and long-term growth prospects."

Prior to joining CVS Health, Hourican held executive leadership roles at Macy’s, most recently serving as Senior Vice President, Regional Director of Stores, responsible for the management of 110 department stores in the Mid-Atlantic region. He holds an undergraduate degree in economics and a master’s degree in supply chain management from The Pennsylvania State University.

In addition to this monumental transition, Sysco elected the lead Independent Director Ed Shirley as Executive Chair, replacing Tom Bené. Additionally, Brad Halverson has been elected as the new lead Independent Director. Both changes will be effective January 13.

As Executive Chair, Shirley will work closely with Hourican to ensure a smooth and successful transition, lead the Board of Directors, and provide input on key strategic priorities.

“We are pleased to welcome Kevin as our new president and CEO,” Shirley began. “Kevin brings a demonstrated track record of delivering strong growth, market share gains, customer service improvement, and operational efficiencies within large and complex environments, having run an $85 billion business and leading large divisions at multi-unit retailers. He takes a strategic approach to winning in underdeveloped markets while driving new innovation. The board is highly confident Kevin has the skill set and vision to capture the opportunities ahead and we look forward to working with him and the full leadership team to deliver enhanced value for shareholders.”

He continued, “Tom has made many significant contributions to Sysco and the board and I are grateful for his leadership, integrity, and dedication to our associates and customers. During his seven years at Sysco, he led important strategic initiatives that strengthened the company’s overall performance and increased shareholder value. As CEO, he also renewed our focus on the customer, fostered a culture of empowerment, and elevated the importance of corporate social responsibility, all of which will underpin our future success. The entire board thanks Tom for his dedication and service and we wish him well in his next endeavors.”

Shirley joined Sysco’s board in 2016 and has served as lead Independent Director since November 2018. He has substantial experience in executive leadership, strategy development, marketing/brand development, and business operations, both domestically and globally, developed in his various senior executive positions with large consumer products companies.

“As part of a deliberate and thoughtful process to ensure Sysco is best positioned for its next phase of development, we are pleased to announce Kevin Hourican as the company’s new president and CEO,” said Larry Glasscock, Chairman of the Governance and Nominating Committee. “The board believes Kevin’s leadership and skill set align strongly with Sysco’s strategic priorities in this next phase of accelerated growth. Moreover, Ed’s familiarity with the company and deep experience over decades running highly successful consumer businesses will ensure a smooth leadership transition.”

Brad Halverson joined the board in 2016 and is the former Group President, Financial Products and Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer of Caterpillar Inc.

Regarding the financial outlook, Sysco remains confident in its ability to achieve its financial objectives and is aligned with current fiscal year consensus estimates. Congratulations to the company on such integral leadership changes!

Sysco

REDWOOD SHORES, CA - Whether you believe in astrology or not, one thing’s for sure: Horoscopes are hot right now with consumers, and marketers across the food space are relying on the stars for campaign guidance. The Mushroom Council is the latest in this space to latch onto the trend with its all-new social media campaign, “What’s Your Mushroom Horoscope?”

“We wanted to begin the new year with a fresh way to inspire fans to discover mushroom varieties they may not be as familiar with and even try out a new recipe,” said Bart Minor, President and CEO. “We expect our digital audiences—whether they are ‘delicate and mystical’ Pisces or ‘classic and loyal’ Capricorns—will have fun determining whether their designated mushroom reflects their personalities.”

According to a press release, the fun, playful social media campaign will feature email newsletters, blog posts, social media content, graphics, and more in order to encourage consumers to discover their 2020 mushroom sign based on their corresponding zodiac.

Along with assigning each mushroom variety a unique personality description, the Mushroom Council is also providing recipe recommendations to inspire the culinary use of mushrooms. Curious as to what mushroom you are? Find out below!

• Aquarius, Beech: Innovative & Versatile
• Pisces, Oyster: Delicate & Mystical
• Aries, Portabella: Ambitious & Bold
• Taurus, Crimini: Joyful & Reliable
• Gemini, Yellow Oyster: Creative & Vibrant
• Cancer, Enoki: Sweet & Emotional
• Leo, Maitake: Adventurous & Unique
• Virgo, Shiitake: Practical & Intense
• Libra, The Blend: Harmony & Balance
• Scorpio, Trumpet: Happy & Energetic
• Sagittarius, Pink Oyster: Dreamy & Whimsical
• Capricorn, White Button: Classic & Loyal

Where my fellow shiitakes at!?

Alongside the campaign, the Mushroom Council is also releasing a graphic of the recognizable zodiac wheel, which will match up each sign to a mushroom variety or The Blend. The innovative campaign runs all January long.

For more exciting ways produce purveyors are upping their marketing game, stay right here with AndNowUKnow. After all, no matter your sign or corresponding mushroom variety, ANUK is the right produce news source for you!

The Mushroom Council

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL - Chiquita is pulling back the curtain on the latest consumer shopping habits and connecting the dots between its findings and its major category growth. Specifically, the tropical fruit provider discovered that 31 percent of respondents in a recent survey said that one-quarter to one-half of their annual produce purchases are organic. With this statistic in mind, Chiquita is setting forth to lean into this rising demand for organic produce.

“The growth in organic bananas is mainly driven by increased distribution in response to consumer demand and their interest in transparency across the supply chain process, and free-form products,” said Jamie Postell, Director of Sales North America. “At Chiquita, we are happy that consumers today are increasingly food-conscious and aware and simply want more options in their eating.”

According to a press release, it used to be that approximately one in 20 containers of bananas were organic, and now that number has changed dramatically to one in 10. Chiquita attributes this change to the steady increase in demand led by young consumers, who are demonstrating that their buying habits when shopping for produce are steadily shifting in the direction of organics. In addition, more consumers are prescribing to healthy eating and supporting companies that care for the environment, workers, and the community.

In turn, Chiquita supports this consumer movement through a few different initiatives, one being to produce bananas in a carbon-footprint-reducing way. Before a product can be officially labeled 100-percent organic, a USDA-approved certifier must inspect the place where the food is grown to ensure that the grower is adhering to all the rules and requirements to meet USDA organic standards, as noted in a press release.

Another initiative of Chiquita’s is its Star Care containers, which are used for 100 percent of the organic loads shipped to the U.S. in order to ensure a fresher, more environmentally friendly banana with a longer shelf-life. The new ultra-efficient containers use software that automatically regulates the containers’ compressor to control the atmosphere. Chiquita implemented the new containers at the beginning of 2019, resulting in a positive environmental impact and a reduction of CO₂ consumption by 17,000 tons per year.

To learn more about Chiquita’s organic bananas and some tasty recipes to incorporate them into, click here. And for more of the freshest produce news around, stick with us at AndNowUKnow.

Chiquita

FRANCE - As an international grocer, Lidl has been growing its presence in the U.S. and Europe with new stores and new facilities to establish an extensive retail footprint. But France has been another target of growth, and Lidl reports that it is continuing ahead with plans to open dozens of new stores in the coming years.

The retailer opened around 50 new stores in France in 2019, according to Capital.fr., including 16 bought from French grocer Casino Group, and another 17 from Leader Price. According to the news source, Lidl plans to keep up with this rate of expansion, aiming for several dozen new store openings per year by 2022.

Lidl has been ramping up its expansion stateside—most recently focusing on the East Coast—but is also accelerating its growth in the rest of Europe as well. This year the retailer announced an ambitious plan to open 230 stores in the United Kingdom, backed by a new distribution center—its largest in the region.

What will be the next stage of Lidl’s global expansion? Keep reading AndNowUKnow for updates.

Lidl France

UNITED STATES - Both Weis Markets and Brookshire Grocery Co. have partnered with Mercatus to use its digital commerce solution, AisleOne™, to boost their abilities to better engage with their customers. The personalization intelligence machine, which taps into shopper data and behaviors by learning algorithms informed by deep grocery expertise, will help both retailers provide relevant product content to shoppers.

"At Weis Markets, we are always striving to better understand both online and offline shopping behavior to create engaging experiences for our customers," said Ron Bonacci, Vice President of Markerting and Advertising, Weis Markets. "We’ve already made significant progress with our company’s digital grocery shopping program since partnering with Mercatus and look to do even more in 2020. AisleOne represents the next phase of our program. It will help us deepen our relationships with customers and personalize values and incentives."

According to a press release, the new technology will enable both grocers to:

• Generate automatic personalized catalogs and search results tailored to each individual shopper
• Utilize a deep well of shopper data from online and in-store inputs
• Serve personalized product suggestions based on shoppers’ basket, past purchase, and adjacent profile data
• Enhance the overall shopping experience for a faster, more enjoyable checkout process
• Gain full transparency into and control over their customers’ data and product recommendations

"A year ago, we launched online ordering with curbside pickup service to 100 stores across Brookshire’s, Super 1 Foods, and FRESH by Brookshire’s banners," said John D’Anna, Chief Strategy Officer, Brookshire Grocery Co. "Now, we are excited to expand our partnership with Mercatus by adding AisleOne personalization to our online shopping capabilities and creating a more personalized, convenient, and enjoyable customer experience."

Sylvain Perrier, President and CEO of Mercatus, added, "We’re excited that Brookshire’s and Weis Markets are adding AisleOne to their digital commerce experiences. Shoppers have come to expect a personalized shopping experience, and these two grocers know they need to deliver on that while continuing to own the shopper relationship. Our AisleOne solution will help both grocers fulfill these promises by delivering hyper-relevant experiences to their shoppers, boosting retention rates, and building lasting loyalty."

As the grocery landscape continues to shift and consumers’ preferences change, AndNowUKnow will be here to report on the latest in retail news.

Weis Markets Brookshire Grocery Co.

MEXICO - Walmart Mexico (Walmex) kicked off 2019 with the strategic optimization of its supplier relationships in February. This strategy proved to be quite successful as by the year’s end, the retailer had finalized its biggest Mexico expansion since 2013, opening 134 new stores within one of Walmart’s largest markets, according to CNBC.

Now with 3,407 stores in the country, Mexico has the largest number of Walmart locations besides the United States, as stated by the company in a monthly report. The majority of these new stores fall under the Bodega Aurrera family including the Bodega Express format, which is more cost effective to build than some of Walmart’s other formats. According to the news source, the Bodega chain is Walmart’s way of appealing to low-income communities in Mexico.

In addition to the surplus of Walmex locations, the company reported a 2.6-percent rise in sales for December, while the overall sales for Mexico locations rose by 4.1 percent.

Will Walmart maintain its position as one of Mexico’s biggest grocers in 2020? Keep clicking back to ANUK as we report on the latest.

Walmart