WATSONVILLE, CA - With the official launch of fall in the Northern Hemisphere comes the timely blueberry transition that we all know so well in the produce department. While the unseasonal heat here in California is pushing my hoodies back into the closet, I am bringing out the blueberry recipes that are sure to take form as we look towards the holidays.
Cindy Jewell, Vice President of Marketing for California Giant Berry Farms, joins me to talk about all things blue as the company reflects on the status of the season and what we can expect from the market as we move through autumn.
“Currently, we have consistent volume available for all berry types, but blueberry volume is definitely lighter than summer peak season, so the market is steady and demand is good for nice quality fruit,” Cindy shares with me. “Specific to blueberries, the market is good and we are seeing some transition in growing regions as the season officially shifted from summer to fall this week.”
California Giant’s volume from the Pacific Northwest is winding down over the next few weeks as the operation finishes out that season and moves to its Mexico and South America regions that are just beginning to kick into gear.
“We currently have light volume coming in from Mexico and Argentina/Uruguay that will continue until Chile comes into full production for the winter,” Cindy says. “Typically, this is a time period when the blueberry volume for us is light so the pricing and demand are strong as the quality is excellent and consumers begin looking for fresh blueberries for their fall season recipes that help to warm up the kitchen!”
There is only one way to be “blue” this fall, and it is the sweet and delectable kind. Keep checking back with AndNowUKnow as we follow this blueberry transition and the demand of the holiday push.
MANTECA, CA - When the leaves begin to turn and the air starts to chill, the foods of fall take center stage, and is there a food more fall-y than pumpkins? Van Groningen & Sons is ready to take the seasonal plunge with its upcoming California pumpkin crop.
“We anticipate a successful season this year, yields should be favorable and supplies ample through Halloween,” Danielle Ratto, Sales, commented, in a press release. “There has been talk of shortages in the East due to the heavy rains from the hurricane, which usually drives up demand here in the West.”
When October hits, pumpkins pop up in the produce aisle even more than faux spider webs, and the grocery store is where many consumers purchase their essential jack-o-lantern ingredient. Van Groningen & Sons offers consumers a range of new and interesting varieties like “Warty Goblins,” “Jarradales,” and “Fairytales,” all of which scream out for Instagram glamor shots.
“We are very excited about this year’s crop,” said Ratto. “The fields are looking great and the warm weather has provided the perfect growing condition for us to have an early supply available to meet retailer’s post Labor Day demand.”
For more seasonal produce news, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
MIAMI BEACH, FL - We often report on new formats, which means it isn’t easy to be taken aback by what retailers are doing in the big bad world of grocery. However, when Publix announced that it was opening a waterfront store, I couldn’t help but be aghast. A Publix at which people can park their boats? This is 2019.
According to a report from The Real Deal, a South Florida real estate news source, Albert Benalloun, a principal at Miami Beach-based TransAmerican Development Corp., closed on the property for 4.75 million. Benalloun will then lease the three-story store to Publix. The property will include a dock where boaters can park their boats and go grocery shopping. The future truly is here, y’all!
Construction is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2020 and the project estimated to cost roughly $18 million.
When the news source reached out for comment, a spokesperson for Publix did not immediately respond.
What’s next in the world of new retail formats? AndNowUKnow will report the latest.
SACRAMENTO, CA - Ah, September. It’s the official fall timestamp, bringing with it an abundance of red, orange, and yellow hues that warm my soul. Oh, did you think I meant the dying leaves? I was actually talking about issue number 43 of The Snack Magazine, which sports a cover photo of Greg Sagan in front of a Giorgio Fresh truck. With every issue comes our beloved Find the Apple contest, giving readers the chance at a cash prize. So, get searching!
I didn’t even see the logo when a coworker lit up the cover with her flashlight and pointed to it, so best of luck to you all. Once you find it, resist the temptation to post your selfie on Instagram and send it over to us instead!
If you haven’t received a hard copy of our September issue, click here for the digital cover. But before you snap that pic, be sure to do the following:
- Show your face! We want a break-the-internet-level selfie!
- Be sure your finger is pointing to the AndNowUKnow apple logo
If your photo checks off the above boxes, email it to [email protected] to join the running for the $100 cash prize!
Every round, we choose two winners, one from the buy-side and one from the supply-side. If your photo lands in our inbox ahead of everyone else’s, you could join the winners circle with some of the quickest produce people, like:
- Monina Knox of Sobeys (reigning buy-side champion!)
- Kyle Stock of Fresh Concept (reigning supply-side champion!)
- Chris Olsen of Gold Coast Packing
- Kimberly Chan of 99 Cents Only
- Danny Ortiz of Sysco
- Dustin White of Fresh Concepts
- Brandi McGuire-Sisco of Topco Associates
- Mike Mendez of NatureFresh™ Farms
Interested in receiving a copy of The Snack to give you a leg up in future challenges? Subscriptions are valued at $129 per year, click here to subscribe.
That little apple outline isn’t going to find itself, folks. Happy hunting!
MONTEREY, CA - The third annual Organic Grower Summit will be held in Monterey, California, and word just came in that Founders and CEOs from six of the nation’s most progressive ag tech companies will be presenting. Sponsored by Western Growers, the two and a half hour long educational intensive, Real Talk with Ag Tech Disruption Leaders, will be delivered at this year’s event on December 4 and 5.
“Western Growers is extremely proud to be working with the Organic Grower Summit to bring forward a stellar group of companies who are changing the landscape for organic fresh produce production and supply chains,” said Hank Giclas, Senior Vice President of Science and Technology at Western Growers. “These TED-style talks by the founders and CEOs of these companies, followed by an engaging panel discussion, will showcase these progressive companies and their technology in a power packed educational session that can’t be missed.”
The educational presentation will be divided into two sessions. OGS’ press release stated that the first session features three ag tech pioneers sharing their thoughts on the increasing use of precision and automated technology to help growers improve yield, while protecting the soil and ecosystems. The second part of the session includes founders of three leading companies in supply chain efficiency and food waste management exploring new technologies to boost sustainability for growers and the planet. Each session will include a panel discussion and end with an audience Q&A.
The featured presenters include:
- Christine Mosley, CEO/Founder, Full Harvest
- Sebastien Boyer, CEO/Co-Founder, Farm Wise
- Aidan Mouat, CEO/Co-Founder, Hazel Technologies
- Diane Wu, CEO/Co-Founder, Trace Genomics
- Kaben Smallwood, CEO/Co-Founder, Symbiotic Aquaponics
- James Rogers, CEO/Founder, Apeel Sciences
OGS is made possible through the combined efforts of California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) and Organic Produce Network (OPN). The event is designed to provide information vital to organic farmers and ranchers, as well as an overview of the challenges and opportunities in the production of organic products. Additionally, a trio of acclaimed keynote presenters, recognized for their innovative and resourceful leadership in creating new and exciting opportunities for those involved in the production of organic crops and products. This year’s OGS will feature: Kat Taylor, Co-Founder and CEO of Beneficial State Bank, and founding Director of TomKat Ranch Educational Foundation; Amy Ansel, co-founder of Titan Bioplastics; and David Perry, President and CEO of Indigo Ag.
A series of educational sessions is also on deck during OGS and will touch on areas including:
- What’s Next in Organic Plant Health?
- The Growing Hemp Marketplace
- Organic Cannabis on the Horizon
- Strategies to Reduce Risk through Organic Soil Health Practices
- Organic Farming in the Era of FSMA
- Organic Sales Data Dive
With 43 sponsors already committed and a nearly sold-out trade show floor, OGS will feature exhibitors showcasing the latest in soil amendment, food safety, ag technology, and equipment manufacturers who will be connecting with organic field production staff, supply chain managers, pest management advisors, and food safety experts.
As the event draws nearer, keep reading AndNowUKnow as we continue to bring updates.
HICKORY, NC - Regional grocer Alex Lee has recently announced its acquisition of wholesale and retail grocer, W. Lee Flowers & Co. Headquartered in Scranton, South Carolina, W. Lee Flowers distributes to more than 75 grocery stores in Georgia and the Carolinas, including 50 of its self-owned and operated stores.
“For years, Alex Lee and W. Lee Flowers have worked together in various capacities,” said Brian George, President and CEO of Alex Lee. “Both are known within the industry, and to each other, as dependable, family-owned, values-based businesses that have earned the respect of customers, suppliers, and vendors. Together, we have an opportunity to accelerate our growth in all markets, while continuing to provide exceptional services. W. Lee Flowers and its employees have built invaluable relationships within their local communities that we expect will only solidify as we move forward together.”
The acquisition will allow Alex Lee to expand its geographic footprint, enhance operations in new markets, and provide their customers a greater variety of products at competitive prices, according to a press release. Over more than four decades, W. Lee Flowers has maintained an exceptional reputation for outstanding customer service, value, and convenience. The grocer joins Alex Lee’s family of companies, including Merchants Distributors (MDI), Lowes Foods, and Souto Foods.
“We are thrilled to continue serving our customers and distribution partners within the Alex Lee family of companies,” said Henry Johnson, President, W. Lee Flowers & Co. “Alex Lee shares our longtime commitment to prioritizing customer service and value. With the support of Alex Lee and its fellow subsidiaries, we believe we’re in an ideal position to thrive in a competitive environment.”
W. Lee Flowers will operate as a subsidiary of Alex Lee, while maintaining its current facility in Scranton. Employees of the grocer will be retained, but W. Lee Flowers' longtime executives, William Henry Johnson Jr. and Heyward L. King Jr. will step down after more than 80 years of combined leadership. Rick Geary will take over leadership for W. Lee Flowers.
“While we look to the future with enthusiasm, we also recognize the achievements that have led us to this point,” George said. “Henry Johnson and Heyward King have shepherded the organization their fathers helped build through many decades of growth. They have more than earned our respect and gratitude, as well as a pair of long and happy retirements.”
Keep reading AndNowUKnow for more retail acquisition news.
LUGO RAVENNA, ITALY - Here at ANUK, we love celebrating. So, when we found out UNITEC was turning 95, we couldn’t be more thrilled! The company has made a name for itself in not just Italy, but also over here in the States and throughout practically the rest of the world.
“The results of UNITEC are the Results of its Customers,” said Angelo Benedetti, President of UNITEC. “We at UNITEC and our customers play on the same side; we are part of the same team. If we win, we all win!"
The processor and selector of fruits and veg has come a tremendously long way since 1924 when the first mechanical sorters were made, and the company has made a pretty strong impression over the years.
"The real meter, the most important unit of measurement, is customer satisfaction, derived from the achievement of concrete results," continued Benedetti.
And satisfied they are. From Asia to Australia to the rest of Europe, CEOs and Directors wanted to chime in to give their appreciation and support for UNITEC. From the press release, here are but a few of our favorites.
“The first memory I have of UNITEC dates back to a meeting in the early 1990s,” started Afe-Salvi President Marco Salvi, who has been working with UNITEC for almost 30 years. “I think we can safely say that today we handle 50-60 percent more fruit than before.”
“Our first UNITEC technology was a 2001-cup sorter. The basic structure is still in place in our company! For me, it's still new!” stated La Buona Frutta’s Owner, Adriano Petteni, in regards to his UNITEC sorter for processing peaches, nectarines, and apricots. “This trusting relationship that has been established over time is such that we never turn to their competitors!”
“I believe that with UNITEC, we have always built a relationship based not only on machines or innovation, but on something more...UNITEC gives you certainty!” stated Nello Alba, CEO of Oranfrizer, a company that specializes in citrus fruits.
The passion for innovation has led UNITEC to create a Research and Development Center, which will be built in front of the company's headquarters in Italy. This center, which will include new offices, an area entirely dedicated to prototypes, conference rooms, training rooms, and a showroom, will investigate mechatronics, robotics, and artificial vision.
“I thank everyone who has worked in the past and those who work today at UNITEC, one by one,” concluded Benedetti. “Without the contribution of each of them, we would not have achieved all this!"
Congratulations to UNITEC in all of its endeavors! We at ANUK can’t wait to see more innovations in the future.
FRESNO AND CUTLER, CA - Hot on the line this morning was a recent merger between Gerawan Farming and Wawona Packing Co. The transaction is being facilitated by Paine Schwartz, an existing investor in Wawona and a global leader in sustainable food chain investing that has partnered with both companies for the merger. While the financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed, a news release divulged some exciting details.
"At Gerawan, innovating on a large scale to grow, pack, and ship the world’s best fruit has been key to our success, and those efforts have always hinged on investing in our employees,” said Dan Gerawan, Co-Owner of Gerawan Farming. “These same values underpin Wawona’s success. This merger is an exciting next step to unlock the full potential of both companies."
Both Gerawan and Wawona are third-generation family businesses. Gerawan is a stonefruit industry pioneer with best-in-class farming, packing practices, and proprietary varieties marketed under the Prima® brand. Wawona is a California-based supplier of high-quality stonefruit and a leader in the organic segment of the market.
"Over the last several years, we have focused on accelerating Wawona’s growth by building on the inherent strengths of our business and management team,” said Brent Smittcamp, Executive Chairman of Wawona. “Our acquisition last year of Burchell Nursery was one example, and now this historic merger with Gerawan takes it to yet another level. We are eager to bring the benefits of this merger to our employees, suppliers, and customers."
The combined company will be led by Dan Gerawan, who will be the largest individual shareholder and Chief Executive Officer of the new entity. Brent Smittcamp will also remain a significant shareholder and continue to be highly involved with the combined company. The management team will be comprised of leaders from both companies.
"We have great respect for Wawona’s management and employees, all of whom share our passion for producing the highest-quality stonefruit,” Gerawan continued. “We look forward to working closely with them and the team at Paine Schwartz to deliver even more of the best quality fruit to our customers."
The merger builds upon the legacies and reputations of the two industry-leading companies and creates an enhanced platform for growth and innovation. The combined business will be able to better serve its customers and create significant opportunities for employees.
"This merger represents a tremendous milestoneand the type of growth opportunity that we can achieve by leveraging Paine Schwartz’s agribusiness sector expertise and close collaboration with family-owned businesses,” Kevin Schwartz, Chief Executive Officer of Paine Schwartz, said. “We look forward to this new chapter for two companies that have been incredibly successful on their own, and we believe they can achieve even greater success through this merger. Dan’s experience and commitment are invaluable assets, and we look forward to supporting him in leading the combined company in this next stage of growth and value creation."
Congratulations to Gerawan Farming and Wawona Packing Co. on the recent merge of their two companies!
CINCINNATI, OH - Kroger announced its daring new food hall concept several months ago, but for Cincinnatians the wait is over, as the retailer has finally opened the highly-anticipated new store. The retailer’s first-ever food hall, dubbed On The Rhine Eatery, is located in downtown Cincinnati, taking up two stories and 52,000 square feet.
"Kroger is thrilled to introduce our first food hall and offer a one-of-its-kind shopping experience in our hometown of Cincinnati, providing a convenient location to experience delicious, quality meals and foods. This innovative destination highlights Kroger's food-first culture," said Rodney McMullen, Chairman and CEO. "Kroger's new store offers something for everyone. We invite all to visit the store to meet our wonderful associates, shop for fresh groceries, and discover their new favorite restaurant."
Located in downtown Cincinnati, about a block away from the retailer’s national headquarters, the food hall is set to attract urban workers and residents, who are eager to partake in the retailer’s foodservice offerings. The two-level food hall features a traditional Kroger grocery store with fresh produce, grab-and-go meals, ready-to-heat meals, and more. But it is the dining experience featuring numerous regional favorites that consumers are most excited about.
"On The Rhine Eatery features emerging restaurants and true tastes of Cincinnati—all hand-picked by Kroger's culinary team to create a popular hangout for meals, cocktails, and community," Teri Rose, Senior Director of Culinary Development, said in a press release. "Cincinnati is Kroger's hub for culinary innovation and experimentation, and the food hall is an example of the types of concepts and ideas we're creating every day."
The On The Rhine Eatery can house 200 customers and offers both indoor and outdoor seating, and a full-service bar featuring local beers, signature cocktails, wine, and Kentucky bourbons. The food hall includes the following restaurants:
- Kitchen 1883 Café and Bar: an American-style food restaurant serving up dishes like flatiron steak panini, Brussels sprouts salad, and coconut milk smoothies, along with breakfast and a weekend brunch. This is Kroger’s second location.
- DOPE! Asian Street Fare: serves regional Asian dishes like ramen, bao buns, dumplings, and more, all inspired by Asian street food.
- Django Western Taco: a Mexican-American restaurant offering homemade tortillas made with Ohio corn, jerk chicken quesadillas, and jackfruit carnitas, along with handcrafted margaritas, breakfast dishes, and weekend brunch.
- Eli’s BBQ: a Cincinnati favorite that serves up hickory-smoked pork sandwiches topped with homemade BBQ sauce, ribs, smoked turkey, and flavorful sides like macaroni and cheese and jalapeño cheddar grits.
- Queen City Whip: the first of its brick-and-mortar locations will feature made-to-order burgers, chili dogs, and milkshakes.
Will the new food hall bring in more consumers and expand Kroger’s foodservice capabilities? Keep reading AndNowUKnow for more news.
RIVERSIDE, CA - Index Fresh has wrapped up another highly-successful California avocado season, and the company has positive results to report. The fruit this year was very high-quality, maintained good prices, and broke all previous records on a dollars per carton basis.
“With a smaller crop, you can usually expect higher prices, due to simple supply and demand. Mexico also had a short crop and undershipped in June and July. This helped shore up prices in California, especially in the last months of the season,” said Giovanni Cavaletto, Vice President of Sourcing. “It was a short crop, so California finished in early September instead of October. The quality this season was outstanding. Index Fresh also picked up new growers, which is always great.”
Index Fresh doesn’t just roll the dice each avocado season, the company brings in highly-qualified experts to guide the development of its programs. The marketer’s consulting agronomist, Gerardo Aldunate, is on hand once again to help Index Fresh with its annual Seminar Series, which he will lead next month, offering insights to bolster the company’s grower network.
“Growers will probably adjust their harvest [next season]. There might be an earlier desire to start harvest, and implement size picking, and doing multiple picks rather than just one pick,” said Keith Blanchard, California Field Manager. “Growers may be cautious over potential cold and hot weather factors. Everyone is still feeling the sting of the heat wave of 2017, so they might not want to gamble with leaving the fruit on the tree too long.”
As a grower-owned corporation, Index Fresh relies on its well-developed, decades-old grower networks in all its sourcing regions. The company is able to support growers from the grove to market with a diverse set of resources, including Index Fresh’s state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated food safety team helping growers achieve premium certifications, Seminar Series, and various incentive programs.
Keep reading AndNowUKnow for all your industry news.