WENATCHEE, WA - While California offers a full range in topography and weather, the state has been unusually consistent across its vast shape with gray days over the past week. The sun is breaking through even as I type, however, which brings better tidings for what is starting off a tighter California cherry market.

“Demand is strong for California cherries as we are just kicking off the season and the peak of the crop is still a ways out,” Brianna Shales, Director of Marketing for Stemilt, tells me. “California cherries are just getting started, and just like every cherry crop, this one is unique and has significant changes from last year.”

The year started with good crop potential, but has shrunk significantly from preseason estimates, especially on the front end, Brianna explains, sharing that weather has been a challenge but is starting to trend towards warmer and dry weather that is common in California.

“It was sporadic throughout spring with some record highs that were followed by cool and damp weeks. There is less volume in the front end of the California crop because of poor bloom/crop set. This makes the timing for the peak of the crop late and will occur after the typical retail pull for Memorial Day, making those promotions a challenge. Retailers that adjust promotions to run in late May and June will be able to maximize the California season,” Brianna shares.

Current California crop estimates are around 5–5.5 million boxes as a state, far less than last year’s 9.4 million boxes and the prior year of 10 million.

“This will cause demand to exceed supply for most of the season. Lighter crops generally produce good-sized cherries, and Stemilt will be aiming for quality as we always do to ensure that the cherries that go to market are ones that delight consumers,” Brianna says. “Retailers should keep in close contact with their California suppliers to make the most of the volumes the industry has this season. Though demand will likely exceed supply in these early weeks, we will have a window for promotions in late May/early June to grab dollars for the produce category.”

Cherries are high-ring and high-impact as a seasonal item where consumer interest remains strong, as long as quality and flavor deliver. Something that, regardless of challenges, Brianna assures Stemilt continues to achieve.

As the month of May gains momentum, AndNowUKnow will continue to report on the dynamic movers and shakers of the fresh produce industry.

DALLAS, TX - PRNEWS lives up to its name as a sieve of information across a multitude of industries. It is a platform for any business employing communication to the masses, and one of our own is taking a podium upon its expansive stage.

Beth Keeton, President of Elephant House PR, was recently recognized as an industry champion beyond our industry, being named among the outlet's 2025 Class of Top Women in PR honorees.

“I love this industry and take every opportunity to champion it within consumer media. It’s an incredible honor to receive this award among so many other well-respected and incredibly talented women in PR whom I admire,” Beth shared with me.

Each year, an elite group of women is selected to represent the best and brightest up-and-comers, entrepreneurs, changemakers, industry champions, and motivators in the communications industry, according to PRNEWS.

“Beth Keeton stood out as a clear choice as an 'Industry Champion' for our Top Women in PR honor because of the measurable impact she’s had on the fresh produce industry,” said PRNEWS Brand Director Danielle Sikes. “The volume of earned media and the breadth of coverage she’s driven not only elevated individual brands but spotlighted the industry as a whole in a meaningful, sustained way.”

From within the industry, Mark Munger, Senior Director of Marketing at Ocean Mist® Farms, took a moment to reflect on the trailblazer’s recognition.

"Beth’s reputation as an industry champion was on full display when she secured Ocean Mist Farms a feature in AllRecipes as a go-to expert on Brussels sprouts," Mark said. "This award is well deserved and reflects her impressive track record of securing top-tier placements for produce brands—even beyond Elephant House PR clients."

Beth has been championing produce brands for nearly fifteen years, but especially since starting Elephant House PR.

“The media has gotten to know me as their go-to person for all things produce. They know I mean it when I say ‘if you ever need access to a grower or hard-to-find produce during a specific season, or tips on what’s trending, let me know—if they aren’t a client, I’ll get you to the right person in the industry,'” Beth said, emphasizing that any win in spotlighting fresh is a victory for the whole.

This can be seen especially in her placement advocacy, a multi-faceted strategy of getting growers placed in highly visible situations while showcasing the importance of said placement through social media.

"Beth is always quick to respond to my media requests and makes sure our team knows what is new and trending in produce," said Stefani Sassos, MS, RDN, CDN, Nutrition and Fitness Director for the Good Housekeeping Institute. "Her deep expertise and commitment have been a tremendous support to our team, especially when we need expert resources or samples. She always goes above and beyond."

But her nomination is not just for visibility of supply and supplier, it is for her partnership and leadership with those who advocate for health, and therefore fresh produce consumption.

“I’m a champion for registered dietitians and influencers in this industry. I mentor up-and-coming media RDs on how to best work with produce brands so that they are working with the companies they most want to work with AND being the best advocates for our industry,” Beth said. “I’m very involved with volunteer leadership, serving on committees, councils, boards, and speaking at events. I think being in the room is important and having collaborative conversations with a diverse group of people is how we impact real change, especially as it relates to how people eat.”

Congratulations Beth, not only on this top-tier recognition, but the realization of your efforts to bring fresh produce there with you!

REIDSVILLE, GA - Healthy Family Project is launching two strategic campaigns to amplify fresh produce this fall, fueling produce demand with its Back-to-School Digital Program in August, followed by its DeCA In-Store Campaign in September.

“While the audiences are distinct—general consumers and military families—both programs share the same goals: to inspire healthy habits during the busy back-to-school season, promote the importance of nutrition, and give back to families who need support the most,” Aimee Smith, Director of Partnerships and Account Development, shared. “Both campaigns support Healthy Family Project's mission to create a healthier generation by making it easier for families to enjoy nutritious meals and snacks—even during the busiest times of the year.”

Kicking off on August 1, Healthy Family Project’s Back-to-School Digital Program focuses on reaching families during the back-to-school transition, helping them plan healthy meals, snacks, and lunchbox solutions. The program meets families in their real-life routines as they seek time-saving, healthy solutions and plan their days around school, sports, and activities.

The back-to-school program will support IFPA's Foundation for Fresh Produce, amplifying the produce industry's mission to increase fruit and vegetable consumption. A robust digital campaign with email, blog, social, and website support will drive awareness to partner brands and the importance of nutrition. By providing parents with practical ideas for healthy lunchboxes and after-school snacks, the initiative aims to make nutritious choices accessible and appealing to children.

Following the Back-to-School campaign, the DeCA In-Store Campaign kicks off on September 1 in honor of Family Meals Month.

“For military families, maintaining healthy eating habits can be challenging due to deployment, long work hours, and irregular schedules,” Aimee added. “We recognize these unique challenges and are committed to providing resources that help military families stay nourished, whether through digital meal planning or flexible solutions that accommodate their schedules.”

The DeCA campaign acknowledges that military families face distinct challenges and offers tailored resources for convenient, nutritious snacking options. With eye-catching POS signage and QR codes leading to recipes, videos, and other content, the initiative provides practical solutions for maintaining healthy eating habits even when traditional meal structures aren't possible.

“As we work together to foster healthier family habits, we are mindful of the diversity of family experiences and strive to provide solutions that address the needs of all families, including those separated by service,” Aimee added. “Our military families play an integral role in the fabric of our community, and their resilience and commitment deserve recognition and support. In addition to the support provided to families through meal resources, donations to Our Military Kids will also help fund activities that bring joy and stability to the children of military families. These programs are crucial for helping children maintain a sense of normalcy and connection with their parents, even in times of separation.”

Healthy Family Project is actively seeking brand partners interested in joining either or both campaigns, engaging in turn-key opportunities to build brand awareness with a mission-driven audience, show support for families and military communities, and drive meaningful engagement during two high-traffic periods.

“These campaigns represent an opportunity for brands to align with initiatives that promote healthier snacking habits while supporting both general consumer families and the unique needs of military families. Through strategic partnerships, brands can contribute to creating sustainable, healthy habits for the next generation while demonstrating support for military communities,” Aimee concluded.

Interested partners can contact Aimee Smith ([email protected]) or Tracy Shaw ([email protected]) to discuss opportunities.

For more industry insights, leave a tab open to AndNowUKnow.

DALLAS, TX - At The Retail Conference and Golf Tournament last week, International Fresh Produce Association announced the 20 recipients of the 2025 Retail Produce Manager Awards, recognizing their outstanding dedication to fresh produce, inventive merchandising, community engagement, and exceptional customer service.

These 20 winners proudly represent the produce industry to the consumer and work to increase sales and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables for their banners and their communities. Their recognition would not be possible without the support of Robinson Fresh.

• Christina Hills of Albertsons Companies Inc, Everett, WA
• Jonathan Peterson of Big Y Foods, Southbridge, MA
• Robert McRee of Brookshire Grocery Company, Midlothian, TX
• Laurent Lavergne of Super 1 Foods, Lafayette, LA
• Ashley Romano of Corner Market, Hattiesburg, MS
• Ian Ayers of Darrington IGA, Darrington, WA
• Danilo Agmata of DeCA, Nellis AFB, NV
• Kyle Miller of Friday Harbor Market Place #228, Friday Harbor, WA
• Jacob Geer of Hannaford, Queensbury, NY
• Ryan Vann of Harps, Mountain Home, AR
• Matthew Chappell of Harris Teeter, Waxhaw, NC
• Tyler LaRue of Hy-Vee, Inc., Ashwaubenon, WI
• Ragan Brooks of KVAT Food Stores Inc. DBA Food City, Abingdon, VA
• Catherine Gironda of MOMs Organic Markets, Rockville, MD
• Timmithy Rich of Price Chopper/Market 32 #131, Rutland, VT
• Shelby Hunnicutt of Schnucks, Eureka, MO
• Nicholus Mcardle of Sprouts Farmers Market, Downey, CA
• Hamlet Sanntos of The Fresh Market, Miami, FL
• Tami Hornshaw of The Goose Community Grocer, Langley, WA
• Mike Bawol of Tops Friendly Markets, Niagara Falls, NY

“This year’s honorees stand out for their ability to inspire trust, drive produce sales, and bring healthy choices to life for shoppers every day,” said Joe Watson, IFPA vice president of retail, foodservice, and wholesale membership, in a recent press release. “Their dedication drives not only department performance but also stronger, healthier communities.”

“We are proud to continue our support of this pivotal program that shines a light on the vital role produce managers play in driving fresh innovation and delivering an exceptional in-store experience,” said Jose Rossignoli, President of Robinson Fresh. “Their commitment to excellence directly impacts how consumers connect with fresh, healthy food every day.”

The winners will be recognized at IFPA’s 2025 Global Produce and Floral Show, October 16-18 in Anaheim, CA, with five produce managers taking home the coveted Grand Prize Winner award.

The IFPA awards program solicits nominations from anyone in the industry who knows a produce manager who is raising the bar on performance. More information is available on IFPA’s website.

ISSAQUAH, WA - Costco Wholesale Corporation reported net sales of $21.18 billion for the retail month of April, the four weeks ended May 4, 2025, an increase of 7.0 percent from $19.80 billion last year.

Net sales for the first 35 weeks were $180.05 billion, an increase of 8.2 percent from $166.44 billion last year.

April had one less shopping day versus last year, due to the calendar shift of Easter. This negatively impacted total and comparable sales by approximately one and one-half to two percent.

Additional discussion of these results is available in a pre-recorded message. It can be accessed by visiting investor.costco.com. This message will be available through 4:00 p.m. (PT) on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.

Costco currently operates 905 warehouses, including 624 in the United States and Puerto Rico, 109 in Canada, 41 in Mexico, 37 in Japan, 29 in the United Kingdom, 19 in Korea, 15 in Australia, 14 in Taiwan, seven in China, five in Spain, two in France, and one each in Iceland, New Zealand, and Sweden. Costco also operates e-commerce sites in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Mexico, Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and Australia.

See the full report here.

KANSAS CITY, KS - Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. (AWG) announced the election of Greg Rush to fill an open position on the company’s Board of Directors.

Greg serves as President of Houchens Food Group, Inc. (HFG), a diversified company that is 100% employee-owned and operates in the grocery, convenience, hardware, and restaurant industries. HFG currently operates over 400 locations across 15 states, including Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, Ohio, and Alabama, among others. HFG is a subsidiary of Houchens Industries, Inc., one of the largest and most diversified wholly owned S Corp ESOP companies in the United States.

"We are thrilled to welcome Greg Rush to AWG's Board of Directors,” says Dan Funk, AWG President and CEO, in a recent press release. 

“His extensive experience and proven leadership in the industry make him an invaluable addition to the board. His expertise will undoubtedly contribute to AWG's continued growth and success. We look forward to working closely with Greg and benefiting from his strategic vision." Barry Queen, Chairman of the Board of AWG, stated, “Greg’s deep industry knowledge and innovative mindset will be instrumental to the board. His commitment to excellence and forward-thinking vision will be an asset in helping guide our strategic initiatives.” 

“It is an honor for me to serve as a member of AWG’s Board of Directors,” says Rush. “I have had the privilege of working with the outstanding AWG leadership team in my previous roles with Houchens, and I look forward to contributing to the future of the cooperative.”

Greg is active in both the local community and within the industry, having previously served as a Board member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Bowling Green area, Tennessee Grocers and Convenience Store Association (TGCSA), and the Independent Grocers Alliance (IGA). He is currently serving as a board member of Houchens Food Group and Feeders Pet Supply as well as the current Chairman of the Board for Alliance Retail Group.