FINLAND - Would you like a towel with your burger and salad? If you are travelling or living in Finland, that is quite the possibility. The Mannerheimintie branch of Burger King in Helsinki has opened an in-store spa as a value-add to the business.

This new element to the Burger King format features a 15-person sauna, shower room, locker room, and media lounge with TV and gaming facilities, according to CNN, where burger lovers can lounge on blue and red benches in the sauna, and watch TV or play video games; all while taking in the steam. As for customer service, servers from the outlet visit the sauna to take menu orders.

The Burger King spa isn’t just getting recognized by CNN, the work of Finnish designer Teuvo Loman just won an award for New Concepts in Food Service by Euromonitor. It was dubbed "a powerful example of localization."

But wait, looking for new place to hold upcoming festivities? Well, the sauna is available for exclusive hire for 250 euros ($283) for three hours, but proceed with caution, there is a $38 charge for lost towels.

So, what inspired this “innovative” new development? Well, Finns love saunas. According to CNN, there is one sauna for every three people in Finland, and this practice is embedded in the culture as a place to relax, socialize, or even conduct business.

If you are travelling to Finland anytime soon, please let us know if you stop by this Burger King Spa, and we hope your salad doesn’t get soggy.

WASHINGTON D.C. - Texas cities Donna, Pharr, and Red Hook terminals have been selected by the U.S. Customs Border Protection to further develop activities as part of the Donations Acceptance Program.

Pharr’s proposal in particular looks to facilitate and expedite shipments of fresh produce from Mexico, according to Bret Erickson, President and CEO, Texas International Produce Association.

“Efforts like this are crucial in facilitating trade and helping grow the Texas produce import industry, which contributed over 4,500 jobs and over $475 million in positive economic activity to the state of Texas in 2015,” Erickson said in an email to members on the announcement.

CBP Commissioner, R. Gil Kerlikowske, said that the patrol is excited to welcome three partnerships.

“Partnerships that CBP believes will lend themselves to a more secure, efficient, and reliable border transportation network,” Kerlikowske said, according to a press release. “Since launching last year, the Donations Acceptance Program has quickly become a viable mechanism and tool for investing in and expediting U.S. port of entry improvements.”

The respective proposals from each city are:

• New inspection facilities and implementing more technologies to facilitate inbound empty commercial vehicle inspections at the Donna-Rio Bravo Port of Entry (POE).
• Multiple improvements, including constructing a new cold inspection facility, a new agricultural inspection training and development facility, and expanding secondary inspection dock space at the Pharr POE.
• Donating a perforating machine in support of operations at the Port of Freeport, Texas, proposed by Red Hook.

The Donations Acceptance Program also announced a new offering called The Small-Scale Donation Proposal Process, now accepting and evaluating proposals valued at $3 million or less on a year-round basis. Details to submit a proposal can be found here.

“At GSA, we understand that all of our buildings are an important part of the communities where they are located,” said Norman Dong, Public Buildings Service Commissioner. “That is why we are so excited to be working together with these three municipalities through the Donations Acceptance Program. This innovative collaboration will allow us to support the kind of trade and travel that is vital to not just these locations, but our country as a whole.”

For the latest announcements that could affect transport of fresh produce, continue to follow AndNowUKnow.

CBP TIPA

CINCINNATI, OH – As the company previously reported strong positive movement to its 2016 Q1 report, Kroger announced that the company’s Board of Directors raised the quarterly dividend by 14 percent. 

"We remain committed to delivering value to shareholders. Kroger has delivered double-digit compound growth in its dividend since we reinstated it in 2006," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's chairman and CEO. "Our strong cash flow has enabled us to return to shareholders more than $2.7 billion in dividends since 2006." 

This increase raises Kroger’s quarterly dividend to 12 cents per share, to be paid on September 1, 2016. The dividend will be paid to shareholders as of close of business on August 15, 2016.

The company also reported that a new $500 million share repurchase program, which will replace prior authorization which has been exhausted, according to a recent press release. 

"Kroger has also returned $12.9 billion to shareholders through share repurchases since January 2000 – effectively buying back half the company's shares over the last sixteen years," finished McMullen. 

Kroger stated that it expects to continue increasing the dividend over time. As we previously reported, Kroger recently reached its 50th consecutive quarter of positive identical supermarket growth. The company has been upping its strategies with the expansion of its ClickList services.

As Kroger continues to report its financials and up its retail game, stay tuned to AndNowUKnow for the latest in buy-side news.

Kroger

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