KINGSVILLE, ON – SUNSET® has proudly announced that President and CEO Paul Mastronardi has been named Produce Person of the Year at this year's United Fresh in Chicago, IL. 

Mastronardi was chosen for the honor for his outstanding contributions to the produce industry, especially in regards to themes of innovation. Pamela Riemenschneider, who presented the award at the event, said that Mastronardi is a driving force behind revolutionizing entire categories in the produce department.

“This is an award for the entire company. Without the hard work of the Mastronardi team, we would not be where we are today,” shared Mastronardi. 

Mastronardi has earned a reputation in the fresh produce industry for his passion for innovation, quality, and most importantly, flavor. Under the leadership of Mastronardi as its fourth generation CEO, the company has been named Canada’s Best Managed for seven years running. 

“He was instrumental in bringing the Campari® cocktail tomato to the market [back in 1995],” stated Riemenschneider. “Since that time, the tomato category has expanded from basic beefsteaks, Romas, TOVs and cherries to a complete menu of flavors, textures, and colors from bright yellow to a deep brown.” 

Under Mastronardi’s direction, the company has continued to develop unique and flavorful products under the SUNSET® brand.

Congratulations, Paul, from everyone here at AndNowUKnow!

SUNSET®

UNITED STATES – As the industry moves through summer holidays, I decided to take a look in on the potato market as consumers look to highlight the commodity with grilling and potato salad favorites.

As Ralph Schwartz, Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Innovation at Potandon Produce recently told me, the company is currently in the tail end of storage season in nearly every state. 

“Yellow potatoes have been shining stars this year,” Ralph says as we talk different varieties of potatoes. “We’ve got about three weeks left in Arizona before we ship to Washington, but so far they’ve been high quality with the best appearance.”

Ralph continues into the mini potato variety, stating that Potandon has just planted several new varieties which is encouraging in terms of the long-term for the segment. “They’ve just been knock your socks off beautiful,” says Ralph. 

Volume for the year has been typical when compared to last, but size profiles have been the biggest conversation piece for Potandon and Ralph. “Idaho and Russett have been seeing good quality for the end of season, but demand across the country has been higher than supply.” 

Ralph says that market should remain steady throughout the season, with prices picking up on the bigger side of potatoes but still remaining mostly steady. Ralph expects volume and demand to also remain consistent with the company’s expectations, with added bumps from summer holidays and good demand for colored and variety potatoes. 

Potandon has seen a bit more cooler days than anticipated, but Ralph says the company has most likely dodged a bullet from the high heat which could slow down development. “It could change in time, but we’re encouraged by our current state and progress,” says Ralph. 

Keep an eye on Potandon Produce as the company looks to launch several new products, details which can’t yet be disclosed but Potandon is excited to release later in the year. 

“We’re looking at extensions to traditional lines, and adding more options for consumers as far as pack sizes. This is all based on consumer research,” finishes Ralph. “We’re looking to really dial in on consumer demand.” 

Eric Beck, Marketing Director at Wada Farms, is also expecting a consistent market through the season. 

“Consumer demand remains to hold a steady course,” Eric tells me. “We are seeing a little movement in the carton market, with hopes of holding firm as the season plays out.”

Planting for Wada Farms’ next season has already been completed, and the company expects volume to remain comparable to the last year’s although it remains in the early stages of growing. 

“We have the majority of summer to get through, but things are looking great so far,” says Eric. 

Wada Farms is also keeping a close eye on the organic market as it moves through the season. “We expect the organic market to continue strengthening as consumer demand continues to grow and become more mainstream for this particular pack,” finishes Eric. 

As the season progresses, keep up with AndNowUKnow for any changes, dips, or surges in the potato market.

Wada Farms  Potandon Produce

LEAMINGTON, ON – With the 9th Annual Greenhouse Competition having come to a close, the industry has been awash with new products and companies recognized for their achievements. Orangeline Farms™ and its brand, Zing! Healthy Foods™, has announced the company took home seven awards from the event.

“It’s what drives us and compels us to continue our journey, to be the brand people think of when making healthy choices, these awards reaffirm our passion and dedication to offer you our finest, that’s the best prize of all,” stated Jordan Kniaziew, Sales and Marketing for Orangeline Farms.

Orangeline took home the five gold awards and two bronze in the Perfect Pepper Category. The company listed its winnings in a press release as the following:

• First place: Specialty Mini Pepper
• First place in Specialty Long Category: Super Sweet Sheperds
• First place for Kids’ Choice Pepper: Yellow Bell Pepper 
• Four wins in the Bell Pepper Category: for red, orange, brown, and yellow varieties

The company said that amongst those judging the produce from Canada’s southernmost town, or “Produce County”, were foodies, experts, connoisseurs, and members of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), then followed by the public. Votes were cast by a blind testing of taste, color, sweetness, heat, and size. 

Orangeline stated that its peppers were part of over 200 entries from Leamington, and that its produce’s Zing! factor largely played a part in its win.

“We can honestly say that it’s our team of employees that make up that very secret. It’s difficult to specialize, it takes an extra bit of effort, a Zing factor if you will, to excel at what you do,” continued Kniaziew. 

The competition was put on by R.E.A.CH. International as a fundraiser for children in need from Uganda, Africa. The organization looks to provide the tools for vital growth in the area, and provide care to its children.

“What an amazing cause, and worthwhile reach we’re able to contribute to, it’s the manner of giving that’s worth more than the gift.” finished Kniaziew. 

Stay with AndNowUKnow as we provide you with the hottest tips about the industry’s most prestigious competitions and awards.

Orangeline Farms

UNITED STATES – Although the industry is no stranger to seeing produce in less than conventional roles, it seems there is a new trend on the rise that could have criminals in cuffs over fresh fruit and vegetables yet again; theft of food items and their attempted resale. 

Due to lowered stakes for capture, authorities in several states and regions are reporting that there is a boosting trend for food theft as stolen food is relatively difficult to trace and makes a weighty profit when resold, according to The Eater.

"There's a black market for everything," said New Jersey State Police Officer Olive Sissman at the time of a food-based arrest, according to Channel3000.com. "We've seen everything stolen." 

As criminals make moves towards large hauls of food for re-sale, the industry is also seeing a rise in the theft of the transportation means to move it. Freightwatch International reported that 178 cargo thefts were noted in 2015’s second quarter, with food and beverage goods making up 16 percent of the thefts. 

Some involved with the burgeoning criminal scene have said that lowered punishment might aid with the rising amount of thefts occurring.

"It’s a slap on the wrist," said Rocky Pipkin, President of the Pipkin Detective Agency, in a statement to The Eater. "Even if [thieves] get caught — and very few have gotten caught — unless the Feds get involved and rope up all the people facilitating the transport and such of the large quantities, then it’s grand theft." According to Pipkin, that equals to very little jail time, and sometimes none at all.

Currently, avocados and almonds have seen the most spotlight for stolen fresh produce, which authorities state is in line with the legitimate market as well, but can actually impact consumers' price of wholesomely purchased goods. 

"The theft trends tend to follow the market for any good — not just an agricultural good — and it becomes more of interest to people who want to get their hands on that product illegitimately," stated David Kranz, Manager of Communications/News Division at the California Farm Bureau Federation.

The Eater reported that the Sherriff’s Department of Tulare County stated that any thieves of bulk produce and food are organized and well-versed in the industries which they are stepping in on. 

However, as produce and food-items see an uptick in theft, local authorities are currently working to crack down on the occurances, with a push with the FBI for state legislation to assist as well, according to Sherriff Mike Boudreaux of Tulare County, CA.

As authorities finagle this fine line of fresh produce and food thefts, stay with AndNowUKnow as we give you the latest in industry-related trends and announcements.

LAKELAND, FL – As officials look to replace the current statue in Washington D.C., Publix Founder George Washington Jenkins is in talks to be the next memorable figure to represent the Florida in the Capitol. 

"It's an honor that Mr. George is being considered," a Publix spokesman said Wednesday, according to bizjournals.com. "He left a lasting legacy of caring for our associates and our customers. He gave back to the communities we serve, and instilled a culture of giving throughout our organization; a culture that makes us proud to work for the company he founded — Publix Super Markets." 

Jenkins is one of three historical Floridian figures being consider for the statue, which will replace the current marker in the capitol of Confederate General Edmund Kirby Smith.

The top contenders for the national and statewide honor were announced on Wednesday, from an original pool of 130 applicants which were submitted by the public. Legislature will now choose between the remaining three, including Jenkins, to replace the current statue representing the state at the legal request of Governor Rick Scott, according to Fox13 News.

Jenkins was chosen as a finalist to represent Florida as a statue in the capitol due to his contributions to and impact on the state. Jenkins first founded Publix in 1930 in Winter Haven, FL. Over 80 years later, Publix is reportedly one of the largest private employers in the Tampa Bay region, with more than 35,000 employees.

As the retailer continues to announce expansions and plans to move throughout the Southeast, stay with AndNowUKnow as we continue to report on the possibility of this national honor, and what it could mean for the success of the Publix chain.

Publix

WENATCHEE, WA - Apricots are in their peak, according to CMI, and the company is reporting tasty fruit for the height of the season.

“Harvesting great tasting apricots has been a passion of our growers for generations,” Katharine Grove, Marketing Specialist for CMI, stated, adding that the company is currently packing and shipping out some of the country’s best in quality with its Happy Bee Orchard Apricots.

To emphasize that passion, Vice President of Marketing, Steve Lutz, took the time to share details of that process.

"What makes CMI apricots so special?" CMI VP of Marketing, Steve Lutz, asks. "When you grow apricots in this part of the world, first off the tree are very, very vibrant from the cold winter."

The other factor, Steve says, is an extra hour of sun every day. That extra time has helped to produce full colored, sweet, and delicious summer treats for consumers.

But the window is a tight one, with these apricots expected to be available for only a few weeks.

To help the product speak for itself on the shelf, the company has also launched a special, high-graphic pouch bag that holds about seven apricots per bag.

"The product just pops on the shelf,” Steve says of the new packaging. “We think that's really a superior way to sell this product."

Another way CMI has looked to differentiate this product is with a new high-graphic color PLU sticker, which Steve explains serves to help you, the retailer, and the consumer see that this is a special apricot that you can only get a few weeks out of the year.

"Now's the time to jump on it," Steve says of CMI’s Happy Bee Orchard Apricots.

To watch all CMI’s Vice President of Sales had to say, watch the short video above.

CMI

NEWARK, DE – Recognizing his commitment and leadership as an association executive, the Produce Marketing Association (PMA) has announced that its CEO Bryan Silbermann will receive the Key Award from the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE).

Silbermann is being recognized as the 67th person to receive the Key Award by ASAE for “exceptional qualities of leadership in his… association and displays a deep commitment to voluntary membership organizations,” according to the Society.

The Key Award is the highest ASAE honor which can be presented to an individual, and is presented to CEOs who are Certified Association Executives (CAE), according to a PMA press release. Silbermann will receive the award in August as the Society’s annual convention in Salt Lake City, UT.

“This is a significant and well-deserved honor for Bryan, highlighting his leadership at PMA. We are proud beyond words,” stated PMA President Cathy Burns.

Silbermann first earned his CAE designation in 1989. The ASAE said that this program works to elevate professional standards, enhance individual performance, and distinguish association professionals who demonstrate knowledge to managing associations in today’s environment.

“During his career here at PMA, not only has Bryan given back to the association community and profession at large, he has also grown association leaders within PMA, stressing staff education and excellence in association management,” said PMA Board Chair Russell Mounce of Sam’s Wholesale Club. “PMA continually has a significant number of CAEs among its staff. This dedication to the association profession is the foundation of PMA’s service to its members.”

Silbmermann first became an ASAE fellow in 1992, chaired the Fellows Committee from 1995-96, and has served on the ASAE Board of Directors and a number of its committees. 

Congratulations to Bryan Silbermann for this honored anointment!

PMA

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has cited Chieftain Harvesting Inc., Salinas, CA, for failure to pay for produce.

The company failed to pay $1,465,307 to four sellers for 510 lots of produce, according to a recent USDA press release. This is in violation of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA). As a result of these actions, Chieftain Harvesting Inc. cannot operate in the produce industry until May 23, 2018, at which time it may reapply for a PACA license.

The company’s principals, Joseph G. Esquivel and David G. Mills, may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee until May 23, 2017, and then only with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond.

USDA is required to publish the finding that a business has committed willful, repeated, and flagrant violations of PACA as well as impose restrictions against those principals determined to be responsibly connected to the business during the violation period. Those individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors, or major stockholders may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee without USDA-approval.

In the past three years, the USDA resolved approximately 3,700 PACA claims involving more than $66 million. Its experts also assisted more than 7,100 callers with issues valued at approximately $100 million. These are just two examples of how the USDA continues to support the fruit and vegetable industry.

Agricultural Marketing Service

PHOENIX, AZ - Sprouts Farmers Market is looking to hire upwards of 2,500 employees as it continues its fast-paced growth spurt, having held events across the country earlier this week.

“As the fastest growing retailer in America, we have to get some good quality people to continue to grow our stores,” Jaysen Pauley, Store Manager for a Kansas City Sprouts, told KMBS-TV.

As we previously reported, the retailer announced its intent to add 11 new stores in the second quarter of this year alone, ending this month, and announced last year that it was looking to grow to 1,200 stores in the next decade.

“Two years ago this was the only Sprouts in Kansas City, and we’re opening our seventh location tomorrow,” Pauley said. “We need good people.”

As to what has helped foster that growth, Pauley said, “Customers have loved our message, love what we do, and they’re excited to be a part of it.”

Sprouts began with one store in Arizona in 2002, according to its website, and has since grown to a chain of more than 200, already employing about 22,000 people. With plans to multiply that six times over, we'll keep our ear to the ground for more about its team growing by leaps and bounds as well. Keep checking in as we continue to report on this and other chains in the retail market.

Sprouts

CHICAGO, IL - The Windy City continued to live up to its name, as thousands of the produce industry's finest blew into Chicago for the exciting whirlwind that was the United Fresh 2016 conference. Whether you missed a moment of this year’s events or want to relive them in all their glory, AndNowUKnow has your highlight reel right here. 

“We are very pleased with the innovations showcased at this year’s United Fresh Convention & Expo,” United Fresh President Tom Stenzel, told AndNowUKnow, adding ”examples were all over the show floor representing advances in food safety, convenience-focused products and new varieties that represent the industry’s drive for taste and quality to satisfy consumer demands."  

Stenzel also shared, "The new partnership with the Global Cold Chain Exposition provided a full supply chain value for attendees. We have received tremendous feedback from exhibitors who are generating excitement for the 2017 Show!” 

After a Monday night spent in the innovative energy-packed Opening Reception at Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art, Tuesday morning brought an eye-opening General Session address by President and Chief Operating Officer for H-E-B, Craig Boyan. Boyan spoke on how the industry can deal with a declining consumer income. With the rise of globalization and increased use of technology, consumers are feeling lighter pockets in recent years. Boyan argued, “We think it is possible that we are in a flat-to-declining industry for the next 30 years,” citing increased efforts in food safety, health and wellness, and investments into your own employees as ways to move forward in the new economy. 

Another major highlight of the show for me personally was the announcement of the Reception Honoring Women in Produce. This year’s honoree joining the ranks of an astounding cast of some of the most influential women in the industry was Julie Krivanek, President of Krivanek Consulting Inc., who fit right in amongst them. One particularly poignant moment from the reception for myself was when California Avocado Commission’s Vice President of Marketing, Jan DeLyser, asked attendees to raise their hands if they had either worked with or been mentored by Krivanek over the course of her last 21 years in the produce industry—nearly the whole room had a hand up. 

"To be recognized by ones peers for service to the industry is the highest honor,” Krivanek shared with our team. “I started my produce career with United Fresh and never looked back. The business relationships - networks - and friendships from that first day have been invaluable." 

Wednesday morning saw Kevin Brown, President and CEO of Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises, Inc.® (LEYE), as the keynote speaker for the General Session Breakfast. Brown, who runs more than 100 restaurants with 51 different concepts ranging from fast casual to fine dining nationwide, spoke on produce’s growing role in the foodservice industry.

The early morning gathering also saw David Offerdahl, Director of Ag Engineering, at Taylor Farms, win the 2016 FreshTech Achievement Award, honoring his career in innovating and adapting mechanical harvesting to better serve our industry. 

Offerdahl wasn’t the day’s only award recipient either—bring on the long-awaited 2016 Produce Innovation Awards Winners! Out of the five categories, the following products took home the gold: 

Best New Vegetable Product:

• Dole Fresh Vegetables; Dole Chef’s Choice Caesar Salad Kit

Best New Fruit Product:

• Mucci Farms; Smuccies Sweet Strawberries

Best New Packaging:

• Maglio Companies/The Fresh Group LTD; readyripe™ lite watermelon pouch

Best New Packing/Processing Equipment:

• PerfoTec BV; Internet Fresh-Cut Flowers Flowpack for Home Delivery 

Best New Food Safety Solution:

• NatureSeal, Inc.; NatureSeal First Step+ 10

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“This year’s Produce Innovation Awards had a record-breaking number of innovative competitors,” said United Fresh Produce Association Vice President of Convention and Industry Relations John Toner, in a statement. “The exceptional creativity of these five winners helped them stand out at United Fresh 2016, the home of fresh produce innovation.” 

AndNowUKnow had one winner of its own this week as well. For those of you who played our booth contest on Tuesday, find out who ended up being the savviest later this week!

Overall, United Fresh 2016 looked to be an amazing success for all branches of the industry, and I am grateful to have been able to be a part of the flavors, the innovations, and of course, the fun. Stay tuned for even more coverage of the events to come!

United Fresh