YUMA, AZ - With the impending New Moon, Natural Delights® is preparing its retailers with two-, five-, and eleven-pound date boxes to satisfy the demand driven by Muslim shoppers preparing for Ramadan. Based on the lunar calendar, the observance starts on February 28^th this year, but stores are advised that celebrators will start acquiring dates mid-February to have a surplus for the month of festivities ahead.

“Dates are traditionally eaten as a quick energy source before sunrise during Ramadan, and they pair wonderfully with complementary foods to help sustain energy throughout the day. Coffee, for example, is a beloved morning ritual that, when combined with dates and heart-healthy nuts like almonds or walnuts, provides a boost of caffeine without the crash,” explained Amy Davis, RDN.

This insight presents an excellent opportunity for retailers to cross-merchandise popular halal products like Arabic coffee, nuts, nut butters, rice, and Middle Eastern spices to meet the expanded buying needs of Muslim shoppers preparing for a month of fast breaking and family feasts.

As retailers know, cross-merchandising has proven effective in driving sales—according to Display Mode, 70 percent of in-store shoppers make unplanned purchases due to well-executed product placement.

“We've observed a growing adoption of our full-size and mini-pallets, which help create eye-catching displays during Ramadan, leading to higher sales," shared David Baxter, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Natural Delights. "Our bulk red window-boxes serve as a beacon for Ramadan shoppers, providing an opportunity to establish a dedicated space that drives the purchase of dates and other halal products."

A press release stated that last Ramadan, average weekly Medjool date sales increased by 31 percent for the category, while Natural Delights average weekly sales increased by 44 percent, according to Circana data. The growth of the Muslim community in the U.S. has contributed to an increased visibility of Ramadan practices and traditions across the country. Additionally, with the rise of social media, more Americans are becoming aware of and acknowledging Ramadan.

Mindful of social media's influence, Natural Delights partners with Muslim creators to produce engaging Ramadan-themed recipe and lifestyle content. Last year’s brand partners earned more than 4 million impressions, with 175,000+ views and 8,000+ engagements on Instagram alone. The brand also sends out celebratory ambassador boxes to influencers and invests in TV segments nationwide to raise awareness of its bulk boxes, further strengthening its presence during the holiday. Retailers are encouraged to utilize these resources for their social media and websites pages to support Ramadan shoppers.

By offering a range of impactful display options, including mini- and full-size pallets, as well as co-branded display bins with California Walnuts, Natural Delights is positioning its products to meet the increasing cultural awareness and demand during Ramadan. Retailers who begin showcasing large boxes and festive lunar displays early in the month can maximize sales and enhance the shopping experience for their Muslim customers. With Natural Delights’ innovative marketing and cross-merchandising strategies, the brand continues to support both retailers and consumers in celebrating the spirit of Ramadan while driving growth in the date category.

SOUTH AFRICA - Westfalia Fruit, a global leader in the avocado industry, will showcase its commitment to sustainable innovations and social growth through technologies such as natural avocado dyes and community-oriented programmes in Chile. Taking place between 5-7 February 2025, the event provides an ideal platform for Westfalia to present these innovations.

According to a press release, some of the highlights at the show this year will include:

• Syros On Full Display: Westfalia’s recent acquisition of Syros strengthens the company's avocado-based business globally. At the booth, visitors can explore up to 18 fresh avocado-based products on the tasting table, tailored for the foodservice and retail sectors, showcasing shared values of innovation and progress in the avocado industry
• Avocado-Based Dye Brings Natural Color to Life: Westfalia will introduce a natural dye extracted from avocado stones. Perseorangin is the pigment that produces eight vibrant shades ranging from light yellow to deep reddish-brown. The dye is already making waves in fashion and is part of Westfalia’s Total Crop Use strategy, which supports 100 percent utilization of avocados
• Supporting Community - Westfalia Wins SDG 17 Award for Tiltil Projects: Westfalia Fruit Group’s Chilean operation, as part of the Pro Tiltil Alliance, received an award under SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) for impactful community projects in Tiltil. Collaborating with nine companies, the initiative addresses local challenges through efforts like a community kitchen enabling food production and income generation, student internships, job fairs, and school support. This recognition highlights the power of partnerships in driving sustainable development and fostering positive change within the Tiltil community

“As the pioneering frontrunner in the avocado industry, Westfalia is committed to driving innovation and sustainability,” said Johnathan Sutton, Group Chief Sustainability Officer. “Our mission goes beyond delivering quality produce; it’s about making a positive impact on people and the planet through sustainable farming practices, reduced emissions, and water conservation.”

At Fruit Logistica 2025 Westfalia will bring this vision to life, showcasing initiatives such as natural avocado dyes, an extended range of innovative avocado-based products, and community programs illustrating Westfalia’s focus on partnerships and reinforcing its leadership in the industry.

To learn more about these projects, visit Hall 5.2 stand D-21 at Fruit Logistica 2025.

FOWLER, CA - Bee Sweet Citrus has partnered with the American Red Cross to support victims of wildfires in Southern California.

"When Bee Sweet Citrus first heard of the destruction that's taking place in Southern California due to ongoing wildfires, we knew we wanted to help in some capacity," stated Monique Mueller, Director of Communications at Bee Sweet Citrus. "After connecting with the American Red Cross, we learned more about what would be most helpful to victims and quickly got to work."

Bee Sweet Citrus will donate various citrus fruits to the Red Cross. Once the product is received, the Red Cross will distribute it to multiple shelters in Los Angeles County. With the help of various partners, the Red Cross has already provided more than 90,000 meals and snacks, along with relief items, including hygiene supplies, for thousands of affected families, as stated in the press release.

"The American Red Cross is on the ground helping those impacted by the devastating wildfires in Southern California," stated Lori Wilson, Interim Regional Executive of the American Red Cross of Central California. "We are so grateful for partners like Bee Sweet Citrus as we work together to provide relief and hope for communities in the wake of this heartbreaking disaster."

Bee Sweet’s first citrus shipment arrived in Los Angeles on Tuesday, January 21. The company's long-term trucking vendor, J.B. Critchley, donated the freight to transport the product from Fowler to Los Angeles.

Bee Sweet Citrus' donation will support the Red Cross relief efforts in Southern California. More than 550 Red Crossers are working around the clock to provide help and hope with necessities like food, shelter, emotional care, recovery planning, and financial assistance.

There’s always more to discover—check back soon for the latest industry news at AndNowUKnow!

BENTONVILLE, AR - Walmart unveiled its New Home Office campus in Northwest Arkansas, a 350-acre sustainably designed workplace to serve as the heartbeat of the world's largest company. This campus establishes a new standard for corporate headquarters that prioritizes worker well-being, environmental stewardship, and public accessibility.

The state-of-the-art campus represents a multibillion-dollar investment in associate experience environmental leadership, and community development, featuring mass timber construction, smart building technology, offices designed to be power renewable energy, and seamless integration with Downtown Bentonville. According to the press release, the phased opening approach will continue throughout 2025, with the inaugural celebration marking the commencement of the phased opening strategy.

“Our new Home Office honors our heritage and the contributions that generations of associates have made to help people save and have a better life. Our founder, Sam Walton, knew that when we all work together, ideas flourish, and this campus will allow us to keep making a positive difference in our customers’ lives for generations to come," said Doug McMillon, Walmart’s CEO.

The transformative project marks the realization of a vision first announced in 2019, when Walmart committed to reimagining its corporate workspace for the future of retail. Through extensive associate feedback and innovative design practices, the company has created a workplace that combines new technology with the warmth and accessibility that have defined Walmart's culture for more than 60 years.

Advanced Spaces Celebrate Roots while Welcoming the Future

Rooted in our past, yet embracing the future, the campus boasts new facilities designed to enhance the associate experience and foster community connections. At its heart stands Sam Walton Hall, a 200,000-square-foot, two-story auditorium featuring advanced conference, learning and development spaces, where Home Office and field associates can collaborate and celebrate successes together. In an opening ceremony held in the Hall and open to associates from around the world, the retailer unveiled other key locations on the campus, including:

• Welcome Center: The campus gateway that welcomes visitors and associates with Walmart's signature warmth and hospitality.
• Helen's Amphitheatre: An inspiring outdoor venue honoring Helen Robson Walton's legacy, featuring terraced seating and a tree-canopied lawn for campus and community gatherings.
• 8th & Plate: A dynamic food hall offering global cuisine through seven coffee shops, food truck pavilions, grab-and-go markets, a rooftop lounge and street-front retail and restaurants.
• Office Spaces (Cheer and Ol’ Roy): With design, identity and imagery that evoke history, culture and leaders who have shaped this company, the first two of 12 office spaces and their unique stories will be unveiled, with more opening throughout the year.
• Street Front Retail: Retail shops open to the public feature locally and nationally recognized brands, including Bentonville Bicycle Company, Flyway Brewing, Gearhead Outfitters, The Gents Place, Hatch Early Mood Food, Jamba Juice, Riserva Bar + Tapas, Swig, Walmart Pharmacy, Wrights BBQ and Yokozuna Sushi. Street front retail will be available in Spring of 2025.

Associate-Driven Design for a Winning Work Environment

The new campus embodies our associate-first approach, from ample natural light and expanded food offerings to convenient parking, fitness options and a childcare facility. The 360,000-square-foot Walton Family Whole Health & Fitness, as well as the on-site childcare Little Squiggles Children's Enrichment Center opened in 2024, giving a preview of Walmart’s commitment to associate wellness.

The focus on comprehensive associate wellness extends throughout the outdoor spaces, integrating seamlessly with the community and embracing the natural beauty of the region. The "Big Nature" landscape plan incorporates over 750,000 native plants: including 5,000 planted trees, reflecting the native habitats of the Ozarks. Shaded walkways and dedicated bike paths create an environment that promotes active commuting while reducing traffic and parking demands. An inviting street front retail environment featuring a mix of local and national retail outlets seeks to engage visitors and the community to enjoy the new campus.

A Commitment to Smart, Sustainable Design

In addition to the focus on green space representing 50 percent of the campus, 12 office buildings, built with the largest application of mass timber in the U.S., are designed to achieve LEED Platinum certification, and run on renewable energy. More than 13 acres of lake reservoirs are smart technology-enabled to assist in water management, while dynamic glass designed to reduce energy load and LED lighting is fitted throughout all structures.

Seven miles of pedestrian paths and bike trails connect to a rentable bike fleet, more than 1,000 bike parking spots, and 300 EV charging stations, making sustainable transportation accessible for associates and visitors. Another focus that brings together fresh design principles and an associate-first approach is evident in the deployment of smart technology systems including enhanced mobile applications, drone exterior window washing, autonomous mowing and vacuums, and smart room booking systems.