BEIJING, CHINA - Since the beginning of the summer, all eyes have been on the cherry category as the transition from California to Washington left a tight market and high demand for the summertime crop—Stateside. Across the Pacific, however, the market for U.S.-grown cherries has suffered, but for reasons a Reuters report attributes to the “tit-for-tat trade battle” between China and the United States. In fact, the news source describes the imported cherry market in China as a “symbolic casualty” of the tariff war—but what does this mean for some of our industry’s leading growers? As we have heard from many sources, the cherry market has been strongly impacted.

“Tariffs cause disruption to all export and import. This particular one disrupted a great premium market for the cherry growers in the U.S.,” Roger Pepperl, Marketing Director for Stemilt Growers, shared with ANUK. “China buys the best cherries we grow in size and quality and, because of that, the market was very important.”

This very important market, however, has essentially disappeared after the Chinese government placed “sky-high tariffs,” according to Reuters, on U.S. cherries.

“A situation like this can cause sourcing to go elsewhere. In some cases, tariff costs just make retail pricing too expensive for trading,” Roger continued. “The key is if the sourcing disruption continues after tariffs are reduced or revert back to conditions as they were before.”

Customs data shows that what was once a $200 million business in China in 2017 has since decreased to a little more than a tenth of its volume peak in just a two-year time span, Reuters reported. While China has looked for sourcing elsewhere, specifically Turkey, Uzbekistan, and other parts of Central Asia, total cherry imports into China by volume have decreased from 1,505 tonnes in May of 2017 to 187 tonnes in May of 2019—all because of the lack of U.S. shipments.

While this has resulted in a loss for some U.S. growers, it is also a loss for consumers in China, who have increasingly demanded cherries over the years.

“With such exorbitant costs after the tariff hikes, and impact of a strengthening dollar, it’s impossible to develop the market—we are at best maintaining it for now,” Victor Wang, the China representative of the U.S. Northwest Cherry Growers, said to Reuters.

What does the future entail for the global cherry market? And when will the tit-for-tat tariff war end? AndNowUKnow will continue to follow all leads.

WATSONVILLE, CA - It’s a big month for Monterey Mushrooms news, this time honing in on the foodservice segment of the business. The company announced it is introducing a new 40 oz bag for sliced white mushrooms to those it serves in the foodservice sector.

“The larger bag, presented for the first time, improves shelf-life and quality,” said Sandy Malouff-Quintana, National Account Manager, Foodservice. "Convenience is a factor when selling fresh produce, and our pre-sliced mushrooms are the ultimate in convenience."

This bag is designed to meet the needs of the pizza business and other foodservice operators who use large quantities of sliced mushrooms as a key ingredient, according to a press release. The company added that sliced mushroom sales are strong and will continue to grow.

"When we can offer a solution to customers—either in a commercial kitchen or a home kitchen—it makes a huge difference,” Malouff-Quintana said. "Helping our customers save on labor costs and decrease food waste, is our goal."

The newest addition to Monterey Mushrooms will be available this weekend at PMA Foodservice, booth #108, as well as a full line of fresh mushrooms in multiple sizes and varieties, designed to meet the specific needs of foodservice operators.

This announcement comes on the heels of a slew of new things for the mushroom grower, not the least of which are nationwide organic mushrooms and new summer-inspired label art on select packages it provides.

Continue to follow AndNowUKnow for the latest in growth and offerings in our industry.

Monterey Mushrooms

OXNARD, CA - Everyone needs a team behind the scenes not only helping a company reach its greatest potential, but providing the goods to get the job done. Gills Onions is ramping up its Whole Peeled Onion Program to do just that. And for Gills, PMA Foodservice is the place to share that message.

LOS ANGELES, CA - When I think of everything produce, my mind quite often drifts to The Giumarra Companies. And while the company impacts categories across the retail board, it also loves to raise the bar in the foodservice space as well. What better place to do that than PMA Foodservice in Monterey, California, this week?

“The foodservice sector is at the forefront of trends and plays a vital role in helping establish new trends,” Gary Caloroso, Regional Business Development Director, shares with me. “We know that today’s consumers get information about their food from a variety of online and offline avenues. Consumers of all ages look to their favorite restaurants for ideas and inspiration and oftentimes discover new dishes this way.”

Giumarra is a key provider of avocados, tomatoes, and other items in the foodservice space. At the show, the team will be focused on connecting with existing and new customers to learn more about their business and how Giumarra can best incorporate its products into the foodservice produce mix.

Between dips and toast toppings, desserts and playful salads, avocado demand shows no sign of stopping. And with two of those key foodservice categories as avocados and tomatoes, Giumarra will be sampling roasted tomato and avocado crostini at its booth, and looking forward to discussing new and interesting ways to incorporate avocados into menus.

“Our company was founded on the basis of strong service, and our foodservice business is no exception,” Gary tells me. “Our team understands the unique ripening, quality, and logistical needs of foodservice. Foodservice is an important piece of our business and a way to connect to consumers.”

While you are crafting your go-to list for this weekend’s PMA Foodservice, make sure to add booth #606 and check out what Giumarra is all about!

The Giumarra Companies

UNITED STATES - Grocery stores have begun blending restaurant offerings into their formats, so why wouldn’t meal kits look to restaurants to revive the sector? Mike Sula of Food Fanatics Magazine detailed what this might look like in a piece featured on US Foods’ website. 

“Industry experts say the subscription model has worn thin, while the novelty has worn out among millennials who see dinner as a last-minute decision,” he articulates in the post. “The restaurant industry has a distinct advantage. Independent operators, large and small, are building on unique concepts, loyal followers, and nimble social media marketing to reach customers who’d love to eat their food, off-premise, in the comfort of their own mental (and physical) pajamas.”

As meal kit companies shift their focus, could the blend of grab-and-go meals be incorporated into the world of chefs and restaurant owners?

Sula cites several restaurants that have taken to building grab-and-go meals in house, which busy customers simply swing by and pick up. Rather than have to assemble the meals once they’ve arrived home, they’re ready to eat. Some chefs create meals that the customer assembles after purchase, offering a similar format to that of HelloFresh or Blue Apron.

For an in-depth look on meal kits blending with restaurants, click here. 

As for its success, this depends, as most things do, on getting to know your market and what those consumers want. As we look to the latest on how foodservice may change, in the next few years and beyond, keep reading AndNowUKnow.

US Foods

MONROVIA, CA - When Trader Joe’s announces changes, ears perk up. And when it makes changes to its produce department? Those ears practically float up to the ceiling, they’re so perked! On its podcast, the retailer’s Jack Salamon, Category Manager for Produce, discussed the ins and outs of Trader Joe’s produce department.

For those of us who frequent the specialty grocer, we’re familiar with the amount of pre-packaged goods. Trader Joe’s is actively working to correct that by implementing more loose produce products.

“You’ll see it in our potato and onion section, and in our apples. We have more loose apples than we did before, and more loose potatoes and onions, too,” Jack remarked.

For those products that can’t be packaged loose—think berries—the retailer is working on two new types of packaging. One is fiber till, a biodegradable and compostable cardboard-like material, and the other is a thinner type of recyclable plastic. By working on its sustainability initiatives, Trader Joe’s is on track to eliminate 4 million pounds of plastic from its stores in 2019 alone.

Other key takeaways from the episode included top-selling products, with the mighty avocado coming in at number one, followed by blueberries and organic strawberries.

Salamon also noted that vegetable and fruit sales are increasing exponentially, with vegetables leading the sales pack. And with new items like the Soba Noodle Vegetable Kit and the Southwest Sweet Potato Bowl, it’s little wonder veggies are hitting their stride.

To listen to the episode in its entirety, click here.

As always, keep reading us here at AndNowUKnow for the freshest take on retail news.

Trader Joe's

SALINAS, CA - PMA Foodservice is still days away, but already my schedule is jam-packed! I mean between talking stalk at Duda Farm Fresh Foods’ booth and sampling all of the goodies Chef Todd Fisher has cooking up…well, I guess I’ll mostly be hanging out with the team at Duda! I caught up with Nichole Towell, Senior Director of Marketing, to find out what other dandy delights we attendees can expect at Duda’s booth.

“This year, we’re showcasing our celery, sweet corn, and radishes. Of course, Duda is known for celery, so attendees should stop by and talk stalk! We will also be featuring our super sweet corn, with Chef Todd on hand to sample on-trend Tori Kon, Japanese street corn,” Nichole shared with me.

In addition to giving attendees a taste of Tori Kon, Chef Todd will also be participating in the strolling lunch competition. Nichole revealed that he will be preparing his famous charred Dandy® Sweet Corn and Chicken Tinga Tostada with fermented Dandy® Celery Slaw.

“Chef Todd will be showing just how many delicious options foodservice operators can create with our offerings,” Nichole continued. “From snacktime to dinnertime, and everything in between, we’ve got everything foodservice operators need to create healthy, flavorful meals.”

When I asked Nichole why Duda Farm Fresh Foods looks forward to PMA Foodservice each and every year, her answer did not disappoint!

“PMA Foodservice is the only tradeshow dedicated to fresh produce for the foodservice industry,” Nichole said. “The smaller venue makes networking and connections easy and convenient.”

Stop by booth #901 to see all that Duda Farm Fresh Foods has to offer! And for more foodservice-forward news, keep following AndNowUKnow.

Duda Farm Fresh Foods

NEWPORT BEACH, CA - PMA Foodservice attendees are in for a treat when they swing by GreenFruit Avocados’ booth, because the company will be introducing its innovative 2-count box and outer carton. For retailers looking to make an avo-splash in the produce aisle, GreenFruit Avocados’ new packaging is sure to catch eyes and hearts with handy info and increased sustainability.

"These boxes represent a more sustainable solution compared to plastic bags since they’re 100 percent recyclable and provide better protection in transit and storage—which reduces shrink," said Dan Acevedo, Business Development Director. "We’ve tested these boxes for the past year with a customer in New York and have seen excellent results with product quality, distribution, versatility, and the efficiency of the design. We’re excited to offer them now to all of our customers—foodservice and retail, branded or privately labeled."

According to a press release, the 24-count, one-layer outer box is shipped and received containing 12 smaller boxes inside, each box containing two size-48 avocados. By supplying in twos as opposed to bulk quantities, foodservice partners can reduce waste and fulfill orders by smaller entities such as restaurants.

The boxes provide ample ventilation and protection during the shipping process, and include a stage-of-ripeness guide, which is as snazzy as it is informative. The SKU on each 2-count box promotes traceability within the foodservice industry as product changes hands, because each box relates to its master container.

Want to know more? Stop by booth #1304 at PMA Foodservice to get the deets straight from the horse’s mouth, so to speak.

GreenFruit Avocados

NEW YORK, NY - The online and mobile wholesale retailer has found its first President in Prentis Wilson, former Vice President and General Manager of Amazon Business. Until now, Boxed has been up and running since 2013 without someone taking the helm, but the decision to anoint a President followed after a year of incredible growth for the company. According to the press release, the company has continued to scale operations, grow its private label brand, and make several notable new hires across departments over the past year. Wilson is looking forward to accelerating overall company growth by focusing on the customer.

“Boxed is an innovative company that identified and capitalized on a real opportunity in the grocery space,” said Wilson. “I’m super excited to join Boxed, where I see massive potential for its end-to-end platform to deliver an industry-best shopping experience for customers, as well as unrivaled value for vendors.”

Before joining the online wholesale retailer, Wilson has had decades of experience in retail and technology leadership roles. He’s also displayed massive initiative capabilities—Wilson is responsible for creating and growing the global division of Amazon Business, generating over $10 billion in annual sales in less than four years. Prior to joining Amazon, Wilson led Cisco’s global sourcing and procurement operations, and spent 12 years at Honeywell International in a variety of engineering, purchasing, and manufacturing operations roles.

“In a rapidly evolving industry, we’ve been able to grow from a technology startup selling online bulk groceries to a full-service retail partner also offering software and actionable data insights,” said Chieh Huang, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer. “Prentis will help us in scaling this operation, bringing years of insight from a strong player in the e-commerce landscape.”

Among other leadership hires, Boxed recently welcomed Chief Financial Officer Rhonda Ramparas, an eighteen-year veteran of Fortress Investment Group; Vice President of Growth Seiya Vogt; and Vice President of Product Andrea Chesleigh.

Keep reading ANUK for more advancements and updates in produce.

Boxed

VANCOUVER, CANADA - With PMA Foodservice mere days away, the entire produce industry is all atwitter to see what new developments and offerings will be on display. For an event designed to showcase produce, Oppy is bringing out the big guns with an impressive array of fruits and veg that I’m sure I’ll be marveling over come Saturday. But for Oppy, the show is just as much about the people as it is about the produce, and the company intends to take advantage of the opportunity to hobnob with the best in the biz.

“The foodservice show allows us as growers to really highlight the capabilities that we have in our portfolio of products to drive growth in a large sector where Americans consume so much fresh produce,” Chis Ford, Foodservice Category Manager, told me. “The opportunity to network is excellent. It’s great to connect with partners in this small-format show, building relationships and showcasing our offerings.”

Oppy has been a part of PMA Foodservice for decades, so the company isn’t new to this rodeo. Oceanside Pole vine-ripe romas and round tomatoes, Ocean Spray Berries, and a range of table grapes will all be on display at the show. The company will also be emphasizing Sun World Innovations’ proprietary varieties of table grapes that it will be marketing starting in the import season. The range of grapes includes AUTUMNCRISP®, black MIDNIGHT BEAUTY®, and red SCARLOTTA SEEDLESS® among other promising new grape types.

Off-shore citrus will be another focus of Oppy’s displays, as it currently grows citrus in seven countries, with fruit from Argentina, Chile, Peru, Australia, and South Africa arriving now. The company’s citrus offerings include tried-and-true favorites like navels, lemons, and easy-peelers, as well as the more specialty varieties, including Daisy mandarins, blood oranges, and Meyer lemons.

Of course, it’s not always enough for produce to bring the flavor—it has to look good doing it. Oppy will be presenting new packaging this year for products including Ocean Spray cranberries, which will be sporting updated packaging that features more contemporary graphics and an emblem noting that 100 percent of the profits are returned directly to Ocean Spray’s farmers. And cranberries aren’t the only fruit to get special treatment, as the company’s Oceanside Pole tomatoes will be showing off packaging that recognizes its special qualities.

“This is the first full season that Oceanside Pole tomatoes will be packed in updated boxes to reflect their 80th anniversary of growing on the same land in Oceanside, California,” Chris commented. “The brand positioning line is ‘On a Mission since 1939,’ reflecting the Singh family’s enduring commitment to producing excellent tomatoes, as well as their traditional support of the nearby Mission San Luis Rey.”

This is shaping up to be a busy season for Oppy, with a veritable smorgasbord of fruit in its pipeline. Its import citrus season began a month ago and will run into October, while Oceanside Pole vine-ripe round and roma tomatoes began shipping earlier this month and will continue through late November. Oppy has large volumes of blueberries currently shipping from the Pacific Northwest, and raspberries and blackberries are also in season.

With Oppy poised to dazzle at this year’s event, its phenomenal fruit is sure to be a bright spot on the showroom floor. The company can be found at booth #704, so be sure to stop by.

Oppy