MCLEAN, VA - Gladstone Land Corporation announced that it has acquired two orchards in Kings County, California, adding 194 gross acres to its portfolio of permanent crop farms. Gladstone Land completed the acquisition for approximately $6.9 million.
“This acquisition adds two more great farms and another strong tenant to our growing list of farms, further strengthening the diversification within our farmland holdings,” said David Gladstone, President and CEO of Gladstone Land. “Cherries are one of the many healthy foods that are produced on our farms, and these two farms produce some of the types of cherries that you typically see in grocery stores in the early spring. As many people know, our strategy is to own farms that produce healthy foods that are found in the produce and nut sections of your grocery stores.”
In connection with the acquisition the company and seller entered into a 15-year, triple-net lease.
“The Gladstone Land acquisition team continues to find opportunities to add high-value, fruit-producing assets that are leased to strong, established tenants, and this acquisition is another fine example of that,” said Bill Reiman, Managing Director. “The cherry orchards on these two farms are being grown with the most advanced technology and cutting-edge horticultural expertise and are expected to produce for the next 20-plus years. This region of the San Joaquin Valley in California is a very strong production area for many crop types, including cherries, due to its combination of fertile soil and ample water, and we hope this is the first of many acquisitions in Kings County.”
For more fresh fruit and veggie news, stay tuned to AndNowUKnow.
NEW KENSINGTON, PA - Teaming up with partners Domino and AB Graphic International, Yerecic Label announced this week that the installation of its first digital press and in-line finishing unit, the Domino N610i and ABG Digicon 3, is complete.
“With Yerecic Label’s focus on lean manufacturing and serving at the Speed of Fresh℠, our digital press cell must meet demanding standards. The Domino digital press and ABG finishing unit allows Yerecic Label to be even more nimble while achieving the consistent high quality our customers expect,” said Yerecic Label President Art Yerecic. “As configured, we’ve already identified over 300 constructions our digital press cell can create in one pass. We hope to add to our TLMI Print Awards with our new digital capability. With Yerecic Label’s 50th anniversary coming in 2019, we’re looking forward to continued success with our digital partners, Domino and ABG.”
For the last year, Yerecic Label researched over ten digital press and finisher manufacturers’ quality, adherence to food safety requirements, capabilities, and equipment speed before deciding Domino’s N610i digital UV inkjet label press with an in-line ABG Digicon 3 finishing unit would help it meet the evolving needs of the industry.
“Feedback from current users within our TLMI community was a major piece of the equipment research,” said Yerecic Label Vice President of Production Brian Hurst. “The opportunity to visit fellow TLMI converters, see the press and finisher on-site and talk with operators was invaluable during our selection process.”
Bill Myers, Marketing Manager for Domino Digital Printing North America, added what sets the latest technology apart from what’s currently on the market, which played a major factor in helping Yerecic Label choose, “We know that the importance of speed, uptime, and print quality are key critical to our customers and the success of their business. Domino has ‘engineered out’ operator intervention on the N610i digital UV inkjet label press with automated features of printhead cleaning, stitching, and recirculating ink. What that means is that at the end of the day, our customers produce more labels in less time with consistent and repeatable high-quality printing. Combining the highest digital productivity, the best UV inkjet quality, and the most consistent print results on a proven and reliable platform…those characteristics are what separate the Domino N610i from everything else.”
In addition, the press cell configuration of the Domino N610i and ABG Digicon 3 allows Yerecic Label greater flexibility in constructions and capabilities on-press, keeping in line with the company’s goal to always say “yes” to its customers’ needs.
“We are able to satisfy even the most color-sensitive customers with the high density dual white ink and six color expanded gamut (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black, Orange and Violet) that accurately reproduces over 92 percent of Pantone colors,” said Hurst. “The press/finisher speed of over 200 feet per minute was just as important in convincing the Yerecic Label team that it was time to invest in digital capabilities.”
According to a press release, the ABG Digicon 3’s fleyeVision 100% camera inspection and glueless turret rewinder ensures Yerecic can prepare smaller rolls for immediate dispatch straight from the machine, safe in the knowledge the product has been inspected and passes stringent quality control requirements.
“When specifying Yerecic Label’s digital solution we realised finishing the product in-line was critical to their needs,” said Tony Bell ABG Sales Director. “Yerecic chose added value for their customers, flexibility, and most importantly automation, allowing products to be turned around very quickly, reducing the chance of operator error.”
Yerecic Label is also dedicated to investing in the most advanced technology as a way to better serve its customers, and believes it is accomplishing that with its latest investment.
For more of the latest news like this, stay tuned to AndNowUKnow.
CINCINNATI, OH - Three years after being acquired by the Kroger company, Mariano’s leadership confirmed to reporters that the company will consolidate its assets into a single Wisconsin-based division, uniting Mariano’s, Roundy’s, and its various banners—including Pick ’n Save—under one leadership team.
According to a report by the Chicago Tribune, a memo was sent to Mariano’s employees last Thursday detailing plans to consolidate Mariano’s and Roundy’s Wisconsin assets under a single leadership team and the name “Roundy’s.” The division will be led by longtime Kroger executive and current head of Roundy’s Michael Marx.
Several senior executives—including Mariano’s President Don Rosanova and VP of Merchandising Don Fitzgerald—will depart. Rosanova will retire at the end of the month, and Fitzgerald, along with John Boyle, Roundy’s VP of Operations, will continue on in an advisory capacity until January.
“Mariano’s will continue to be operated as a unique brand and experience…In summary, what is changing is in the back office and in places customers can’t see and won’t experience, in order to continue to provide the experience our customers know and love,” said Jim Hyland, VP Communications & Public Affairs for Roundy’s, in an email reported on by the Tribune.
The consolidation is, according to the news source, part of Kroger’s ongoing efforts to cut costs while also making capital investments to improve in-store experience.
For more fresh-focused new, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
WOODLAND, CA - Sakata Seed America celebrated the completion of the first phase of its new Woodland Innovation Center last week. The company announced plans to construct the state-of-the-art research and production facility in March of 2016, and this month, Sakata’s construction efforts culminated in an inaugural event on the 219-acre site.
At the company’s Grand Opening Ceremony held Thursday, September 13, Sakata Seed Corporation President Hiroshi Sakata affirmed Sakata Seed America’s parent company’s commitment to the North American market and the seed and produce industry. After briefly relating the history of Sakata and its expansion in the United States, Sakata noted the auspiciousness of the opening and its promise for the U.S. market.
“I’m pleased that we continue our investment in California, in the city of Woodland, and in Yolo County with the Sakata Seed America Woodland Innovation Center—a brand new research, production, and product development facility, which we formally open here today,” Sakata said. “By integrating traditional Sakata breeding, cutting-edge technology, our motivated and experienced staff, along with the optimal climate, we promise to deliver new innovation from Woodland to the world—in a wide range of crops…Vegetables nourish people’s bodies and flowers nourish people’s souls. All of the management and local Sakata staff continue to strive, passionately, to achieve Sakata’s mission. We will continue to contribute sustainably to the betterment of life and culture of people around the world with values created through our innovative flower and vegetable varieties and through our services. ”
John Nelson, Vice President, Sakata America Holding Company & Sakata Seed America, noted that the completion of the first phase of Sakata’s project reaffirmed the company’s ongoing commitment to bettering the produce industry.
“What this facility—here in what we consider the Silicon Valley of Produce—really signifies is Sakata’s continued commitment to both the produce industry and the seed industry both domestically and globally,” Nelson told me.
Dave Armstrong, President and CEO of Sakata Seed America echoed Nelson’s sentiments in an address later that evening.
“This new facility will support our growing business and deepen the roots we have here in what we believe is the most dynamic agricultural area in the world,” said Armstrong. “Sakata’s new Woodland Innovation Center will also be an important addition to our other sites in North America…I’ve never been more excited about the future of Sakata Seed America and our team here, and we truly look forward to what is going to come out of our new facility.”
The evenings proceedings included a performance from drumming ensemble Sacramento Taiko Dan—performing traditional Japanese music—and traditional sake ceremony known as “kagami biraki.”
Sakata’s Woodland Innovation Center represents an $18.5 million investment and will, according to a press release on the subject, “consolidate and expand R&D and production practices on a single, state-of-the-art campus, flexible for future expansion.”
It was a triumphant tone that sustained throughout the evening, and attendees would have been hard pressed not to admire the facility, the Sakata team’s passion, and the promise of new and important innovations from Sakata Seed America.
For more fresh produce news, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
NEW YORK, NY - When my partner brought home a smoker, I never thought I’d want to use it to desperately try to duplicate a New York restaurant’s innovative offering in the convenience of my backyard, but here I am! Duck’s Eatery is changing the smoking game with its smoked “ham,” a juicy watermelon that takes on the delicious, savory, rich flavors in the unique process. Are you salivating yet? Yeah, I need a bib just writing about it.
“It’s hot, which is super weird, we understand,” Will Horowitz, Duck’s Eatery Co-Owner, said in a FOX Business interview with Maria Bartiromo. “We just wanted to try something a little different.”
View this post on Instagram
At a whopping $75 bill per “ham,” it takes time to create—five days time, to be exact—and can be shared amongst three to five people. The process is a big to-do, as well. First, the watermelon is brined in a salty solution with coriander, oregano, and wood ash, according to Food & Wine. This step gives the fruit the tough exterior that looks like a ham. Second, its dried and smoked for half a day. Third, it is scored like a ham, seared in a pan, and basted in its own juices. What?! Yes, you read that right, friends.
View this post on Instagram
What makes the offering so special for Duck’s Eatery is that it is, in fact, a watermelon dished up for customers, a far cry from its meat-focused menu options, but the restaurant makes up for the difference by cultivating a ham-like look. The news source relays that the owners began trialing smoked fruits and vegetables to become environmentally-friendly and sustainable methods of cooking, as well as attract vegetarian and vegan eaters. One of its first successful ventures into the seemingly Upside Down of cooking was a smoked cantaloupe burger. Since then, Duck’s Eatery is on the up and up.
“We’re seeing incredible feedback on social media,” Co-Owner Julie Horowitz told the news source. “Our business has increased.”
According to Delish, customers are waiting 30 days to get your hands on the alternative-meat delicacy. The restaurant's website explains that customers wanting to skip the wait can preorder the ham a minimum of one week in advance via email.
View this post on Instagram
Since New York is kind of far away from me—like on the other side of the country, far—it’s time to pull out that smoker and get crafty with some fruits and veggies! Wish me luck!
Will this trend seep further into consumer trends throughout the nation, and will folks perusing the aisles be looking at produce for their center-plate needs in a new way? AndNowUKnow will keep you updated.
NOGALES, AZ - The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) is kicking off a new event at this year’s 50th Nogales Produce Convention, and this one is for the ladies. The association will be celebrating its first ever Women’s Leadership Invitational (WLI), welcoming women from all walks of life who help lead the way in the produce industry. Packed to the brim with inspiring speakers, educational sessions, and networking opportunities, there will be something for every woman (or otherwise) who attends on Friday, November 2nd from 2 to 4 p.m.
“We are so excited to have this new event featuring leading women. We have already received positive response from local community leaders, and we can’t wait for the Women’s Leadership Invitational at the Fall Convention,” said Marlene Lopez, Director of Membership Affairs and Events for the FPAA.
According to a press release, the following speakers will be presenting at the Invitational:
Cathy Burns
Cathy has built a career in the food industry, and after being President of retailer Food Lion, she is now an industry leader as the CEO of the Produce Marketing Association.
Rosie Favela Cornelius
The winner of this year’s “Pillar of the FPAA” Award, Rosie has worked in the produce industry for more than 30 years and has played a major role planning past FPAA conventions.
Sabrina Hallman
An FPAA Board Member at Sierra Seed and leading woman in the produce industry, Sabrina will serve as the moderator and mistress of ceremonies.
Pati Jinich
Pati is the keynote speaker for this year’s convention, host of PBS series “Pati’s Mexican Table,” as well as James Beard award winner, and will talk about her challenges and secrets to success as a woman entrepreneur.
As part of a leadup to the FPAA Convention, there will be a forum kick-off on Friday, September 21st at the FPAA office in Nogales, AZ.
This year’s landmark event will run from November 1st through 3rd at the Tubac Golf Resort and Spa. Registration for the 50th Nogales Produce Convention and Golf Tournament is now open and can be completed at this link here.
Another event to honor our outstanding women in produce? Count me in!
ROSEVILLE, CA - Two respected firms are uniting to serve agricultural business interests throughout California and the West Coast. On September 1, 2018, The Saqui Law Group P.C. joined Dowling Aaron Incorporated, as of counsel. The merger, which is set to be completed in full by 2019, will help broaden both companies’ client reaches to include employers in diverse industries.
“I am excited that our firm will be joining the team at Dowling Aaron. This is the natural progression for us given the similarities of our firms, our clients, and our approach to business,” said Michael Saqui, Founder of The Saqui Law Group. “This will establish us as the premier firm in the West for agriculture and other key industries.”
Established in 2007, The Saqui Law Group represents the labor needs of California growers, packers, and shippers, as well as clients across the nation, including those in food processing, manufacturing, construction, trucking, trash hauling, automobile dealers, and hospitality. According to a press release, the firm’s Employment Practices Team offers expertise in labor and employment law and provides legal representation to employers in employment practices litigation, complex wage and hour class actions, H-2A Guest Worker Program coordination, and defense and general advisory work.
“The Saqui Law Group possesses one of the nation’s best Labor and Employment practices, which is a tremendous addition to our broad range of legal services,” said Richard Aaron, Chairman of the Board of Dowling Aaron. “The goal for this new association is to connect our clients with some of the best legal experts in a variety of practice areas such as water, labor, employment, tax and estate planning, and provide superior service and expertise within one firm.”
A full-service law firm in central California, Dowling Aaron represents a broad range of clients and has expertise in agribusiness and agricultural litigation, which includes representing farmers, growers, packers, shippers, dairies, wineries, cooperatives, investors, lenders, processors, insurance providers, and more involved in the food production industry. Following the merger, Dowling Aaron will maintain offices in Fresno, Bakersfield, Visalia, Salinas, and Sacramento.
For more ag-related acquisitions, mergers, and more, stay up-to-date with AndNowUKnow.
BERLIN, GERMANY - Word on the street is that German retailer Metro AG has plans to sell its hypermarket chain Real, which has been struggling recently. The chain is worth $1.2 billion, and the sale of Real could attract interest from heavy-hitting buyers, such as Amazon, according to some analysts. After Whole Foods was taken under Amazon’s wing for $13.7 billion last year, the e-commerce giant could be interested in taking on additional food retailers.
According to a report from LiveMint, potential buyers have been leery to enter the German grocery market since Walmart took a loss of $1 billion after it sold its stores to Metro. The retailer subsequently pulled out of the country in 2006.
“Germany’s grocery e-commerce is very underdeveloped and Germany is a very important country for Amazon,” said Bernstein analyst Bruno Monteyne, adding that a likely price tag of around $1.2 billion would be of little consequence to Amazon.
Metro AG CEO Olaf Koch said earlier talks with interested parties had not come at the right time as Metro began restructuring its business. The retailer said that it wanted to focus on its wholesale business, which serves independent traders, hotels, and restaurants and is more shielded from e-commerce, while doing more delivery to customers. LiveMint reported that the wholesale food business has higher margins than grocery retail, and is growing faster as people spend more on eating out rather than cooking at home.
Koch also pointed out that Metro had seen “express interest from a number of parties,” but that the sale process could take up to eight months.
An Amazon spokesman has declined to comment.
Will the sale of Metro’s Real signal to Amazon that more opportunities in grocery await? AndNowUKnow will keep you updated with the latest growth in our industry.
CALIFORNIA - For Golden State growers, sweet potato season is in full swing this September. The state’s spud farmers kicked off a slightly early season late this summer, and all signs suggest a strong crop—in terms of both quality and quantity—continuing throughout the fall.
Darren Barfield, Chief Operations Officer for Quail H Farms, noted the high-quality and ample quantity of this year’s harvest.
“This year, we started rocking and rolling,” Darren told me. “We started harvest a little early this year, and we’re in full swing right now. Quality appears to be a little bit better than last year, and yields are comparable to last year. From a farming standpoint it looks like a really good year for California sweet potatoes.”
Retail Sales Specialist Jeremy Fookes, of A.V. Thomas Produce, also noted that California season is currently in full swing and predicted ample supply of California-grown product in the coming months.
“All our machines are fired up, and everything's going into storage. As far as the outlook on crop yield, it looks like it’s about average so far. It's a little too early to tell over all. The percentage of acreage we’ve harvested is still on the low end,” said Jeremy. “Quality has been very good. We’ve had really good conditions—nice dry weather during the last few weeks that allows the potatoes to cure out in the field and allows us to harvest them without any trouble. They'll be plenty of supply, as far as California product, to carry over throughout the holidays, with good quality and supply when people are looking for sweet potatoes the most.”
Likewise, Nick Martinez, Director of Operations for Country Sweet Produce, noted that conditions in California are currently optimal, and all signs point to those conditions continuing through the remainder of the season.
“With harvest in full swing and ideal weather conditions in California, all early indications point to a great sweet potato season,” said Nick. “Sweet potatoes are a year-round staple, which equates to no days off as we get all acres prepped for demand.”
For more updates on key categories and growing regions in our industry, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has imposed sanctions on four produce businesses for failure to pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).
According to a press release, the following businesses and individuals are currently restricted from operating in the produce industry:
- Sanchez Bros. Produce LLC, operating out of Chicago, Illinois, for failing to pay a $6,515 award in favor of a Texas seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order Cesar Sanchez was listed as a member of the business.
- Intermex Products LLC, operating out of Bronx, New York, for failing to pay a $38,849 award in favor of a Texas seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Juan Garcia was listed as a member of the business.
- Castros Distribution LLC, operating out of Dallas, Texas, for failing to pay a $30,386 award in favor of a Texas seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Dimas Castro was listed as a member of the business.
- Benny F. Hall & Sons LLC, operating out of Oak Hall, Virginia, for failing to pay a $5,280 award in favor of an Idaho seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Benny F. Hall, Sr., was listed as a member of the business.
PACA provides an administrative forum to handle disputes involving produce transactions; this may result in a reparation order being issued that requires damages to be paid by those not meeting their contractual obligations in buying and selling fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables. USDA is required to suspend the license or impose sanctions on an unlicensed business that fails to pay PACA reparations awarded against it as well as impose restrictions against those principals determined to be responsibly connected to the business when the order is issued. 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.
The PACA Division, which is in the Fair Trade Practices Program in the Agricultural Marketing Service, regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses that are operating subject to PACA, including buyers, sellers, commission merchants, dealers, and brokers within the fruit and vegetable industry.
In the past three years, USDA resolved approximately 3,400 PACA claims involving more than $58 million. PACA staff also assisted more than 8,500 callers with issues valued at approximately $151 million. These are just two examples of how USDA continues to support the fruit and vegetable industry.