WENATCHEE, WA - No matter your political affiliation, being invited to the White House is pretty darn neat. CMI Orchards is one of those very select few. The company was invited to showcase its American-made apples and cherries, packaged under its American Dream® label, during an event hosted by the White House on July 15.
“We created the American Dream label to show solidarity and support for our troops, veterans, and patriots of our great nation,” said Bob Mast, President of CMI Orchards. “What a fantastic opportunity for our company, and for Washington State, to showcase fresh products that are so important to our state’s economy and to the thousands of farming families this industry represents—and especially to do so in a label that honors the thousands of troops who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.”
Mast explained in the press release that CMI’s American Dream program will “give a portion of proceeds to causes that matter to their region and customer base,” such as military and veteran causes.
“From fundraising events that support homeless veterans to supporting those wounded in battle, we have found that this program resonates with everyone in a patriotic way and makes everyone feel good about supporting it," he added.
Businesses from each of the 50 states have been invited to display their products made and produced in the United States. This occasion shows the commitment businesses have to creating products and produce within the United States, and the White House is more than happy to provide that opportunity.
“We are excited to once again host businesses from all 50 states at the White House to highlight and celebrate the Trump Administration’s commitment to American-made products,” a White House official said. “In today’s booming economy, we are proud to tout businesses that create jobs and support our local communities.”
Mast continued, stating that, “We are extremely honored and humbled by this opportunity and what it represents. Our company is proudly American Made. Between our orchards, warehouses, sales teams, and marketing operations, more than 4,000 people are employed at CMI Orchards. In Washington State, more than 37,249 farms power a strong agricultural economy led by the apple industry, which accounts for 70 percent of the total U.S. apple production. 140,000 people are employed in agriculture within the state’s $49 billion industry.”
Congratulations to CMI Orchards and to the rest of the businesses that will congregate on the grounds of the White House on July 15! Stay tuned to ANUK for more produce related news.
TEXAS - The latest legislation in Texas will hopefully speed up the rate of produce import entries into the United States. With the passage of Texas House Bill 2155—which will go into effect September 1, 2019—the inspection process of trucks carrying fresh produce across ports-of-entry along the Texas-Mexico border should improve.
Dante Galeazzi, President and CEO of the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA), shared his thoughts regarding the bill with ANUK.
“TIPA is very pleased with the passage of House Bill 2155, the South Texas Assets Consortium Agriculture Grant Program—or STAC Ag for short. The growth of fresh produce traveling through our region has grown exponentially over the years, and this program not only provides a tool for federal resources to keep up with that growth, but it also allows industry and private enterprises to provide financial support as well in a cost match program,” Dante stated. “The support and action of our local elected officials, like Representative Guerra and Senator Lucio shows their commitment to keeping fresh produce moving quickly and efficiently across our Texas ports-of-entry. Without programs like this, the regions infrastructure would have trouble keeping up with the growth we’ve had...and the growth we expect to continue in the years to come.”
The bill itself, according to local news source Freight Waves, reauthorizes a 2015 program which allowed the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) to allocate grant money to select organizations. These grants, which would equal $750,000 over the span of two years, would be used to pay for hiring new U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers, as well as the overtime of current CBP officers.
“It is important that we efficiently and safely move perishable goods through our ports of entry to keep the cost of produce low for Texans while boosting the economy by encouraging trade with Mexico,” stated State Representative Bobby Guerra, (D-McAllen), who authored and helped pass the bill.
Tommy Wilkins, Director of Sales with Grow Farms, also shared his support of the bill.
“It is a revamp of rules geared to speed up any inspection that requires offloading of produce. We are fighting to maintain the integrity of the cold chain. This, I believe, recognizes how important crossings are to the Texas economy and we must take care of the perishable produce headed to the consumers. This is good business and wonderful support from the Governor," Wilkins stated.
For the latest in legislation that affects produce, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
GREENSBORO, NC - Publix has had its new $400 million North Carolina distribution center in the works for a while now, and though the project hit a speed bump in December last year, the retailer has recently received new approval to move forward on the facility.
The retailer had been waiting on a water protection variance from officials in eastern Guilford County, Triad Business Journal reports. But on July 10, the Water Quality Committee of the N.C. Environmental Management Commission approved the request to commence construction of the distribution center.
Last summer Publix announced its plan for a campus containing multiple facilities devoted to product distribution. The facilities include a 1.1-million-square-foot refrigerated warehouse, a 120,000-square-foot food manufacturing facility, a 1.3-million-square-foot dry warehouse, along with parking and staging areas for tractor trailers, parking for associates, and additional support buildings, according to the news source. The distribution center will generate an anticipated 1,000 new jobs in the Greensboro, North Carolina, area and is set to be completed by early 2022.
The retailer had to not only contend with the Water Quality Committee, but also conduct a project to widen a section of US 70 freeway to accommodate the distribution center—a project that cost $8.3 million dollars.
Will the massive new distribution center increase the retailer’s presence in the region? Keep reading AndNowUKnow for updates.
LOS ANGELES, CA - This year at the FPFC Expo in Anaheim on July 16, Giumarra will be unveiling its newest marketing program, #DoYouFuyu. Personally, both sides of my family have trees (EACH) of persimmons in their yards, and I’m always receiving crates full of them every year. Specifically, the Fuyu kind. So yes, I do Fuyu. And so do all of my friends.
“Giumarra is entering our third season as the largest persimmon supplier in the U.S., shipping from Reedley, California,” said Jeannine Martin, Director of Sales for Giumarra Reedley. “Our volume for 2019 is increasing 20 percent, and this growth presents a perfect opportunity to plan aggressive promotions at retail. Consumers are always looking for new, exotic items, and we have found that retailers who cross merchandise our bagged program with our bulk persimmons increase initial sales and generate repeat purchases.”
The press release stated that the #DoYouFuyu encompasses a colorful logo and hashtag promotion for social media, as well as marketing resources designed to educate both consumers and produce staff about the persimmon category. Attendees can experience firsthand how the campaign works and peruse the customizable program elements such as point-of-sale materials, displays, recipes, and grower stories. And to also take a “#DoYouFuyu Selfie."
“Fuyu persimmons are trending with millennial shoppers looking for new, healthy snacks on the go. Fuyus are perfect because you eat them raw—skin and all—just like an apple,” said Kellee Harris, Regional Business Director for the Giumarra Companies. “#DoYouFuyu is a fun, playful way to reach this target audience and inspire foodies hungry for new eating experiences.”
So, if you would like to Fuyu, Giumarra will offer these persimmons for shipment in early September. The persimmons will be available in one-layer cartons or 2 lb high graphic handle bags. Additional specialized program packaging will also be available. And if you want to learn more about the campaign (or just want to take a selfie with the Giumarra team), head on over to booth #459 at the FPFC Expo. Have a Fuyu time!
OAKLAND, CA - Wegmans and Publix once again represented the best of the produce industry on a prestigious Fortune’s Best list. This time around, the two made it into the top 50 on Fortune and Great Place to Work®’s ranking of the 100 Best Workplaces for Millennials, with Wegmans taking spot #16 and Publix nabbing #34.
“Millennials today face a unique set of challenges both in and out of the workplace, ranging from cumbersome student loans to a lack of trust in their management,” Michael Bush, CEO of Great Place to Work, said in a press release. “The Best Workplaces on this list have created a greater sense of fairness, collaboration, and professional development for millennials. These positive experiences empower them to bring their full potential to the workplace and the world.”
On lists past, Wegmans has ranked #3 on Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For, with Publix and Nugget not far behind—a phenomenon that has been occurring over the last couple of years.
“I’ve always been able to try and learn new things in my time working here,” a Wegmans employee said. “I’ve had opportunities in many different departments and get to work in areas that interest me. I feel like my voice is heard and my ideas are always put into consideration.”
A Publix employee added, “Publix is very accommodating to their associates. Whether it’s a school schedule, family vacations, hardship, etc. Publix and its management team will always do whatever they can to help if it is needed. Publix truly does care for their associates.”
To check out the complete list of 75 companies, click here.
Congratulations to Wegmans and Publix on another great showing!
ATLANTA, GA - Consumers, it seems, are wanting more and more, and they want it now. In an effort to satiate this growing demand and compete in an increasingly tight retail space, Kroger has teamed up with Ocado to build a new, $55 million high-tech customer fulfillment center (CFC) in Forest Park, Georgia.
"Kroger is incredibly excited to construct one of our industry-leading Customer Fulfillment Centers in Forest Park—a city south of Atlanta—through our relationship with Ocado," said Robert Clark, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain, Manufacturing and Sourcing for Kroger. "Through our strategic partnership, we are leveraging advanced robotics technology and creative solutions to redefine the customer experience across America."
This is just one part of Kroger’s growth plan, as the retailer has plans to build 20 CFCs powered by Ocado in total—one of which is also set to cost $55 million and will be located in Monroe, Ohio. This expansion is designed to accelerate the company’s ability to provide its customers with anything, anytime, anywhere, according to a press release.
"The new facility will provide Kroger the ability to bring customers across the coverage area fresher food faster than ever before," said Tim Brown, President of Kroger's Atlanta division. "I'm thrilled the Atlanta market was selected as one of the 20 CFC sites, and this location is a tribute to the commitment and enthusiasm Kroger has for the City of Forest Park, Clayton County, and the State of Georgia."
The CFC will be an automated warehouse facility with digital and robotics technology. This model, also known as a “shed,” will be the basis of each CFC, designed to serve customers across the country.
"Kroger and Ocado's first customer fulfillment center in Metro Atlanta will transform the ecommerce experience for customers in the region," said Luke Jensen, CEO of Ocado Solutions. "In a fast-developing landscape for grocery retail, Kroger's determination to continue delivering the best experience for its customers, online as in stores, is unparalleled."
The CFC will create more than 400 new jobs, enriching the community. Several notable public figures have expressed their enthusiasm for the project because of the opportunities it will create, and how it will strengthen the entire state’s business climate.
Located at 2000 Anvil Block Road in the Gillem Logistics Center, the CFC will occupy 375,000 square feet. The facility is scheduled to break ground later this year and be operational in 2021.
Will these new CFCs give Kroger a leg up on the competition? AndNowUKnow will keep reporting.
OXNARD, CA - With its most recent hire of John Killeen as Vice President and General Manager, San Miguel Produce adds 30 more years of experience to its operations. In his new role, Killeen will oversee the sales department, focusing on developing the company’s retail and foodservice programs and leading strategic initiatives and business development activities throughout the company.
“Having known Jan and Roy for the past 11 years, I have always been impressed with their integrity and passion for the produce industry,” said Killeen. “Their unique items, innovation, and quality have made San Miguel Produce leaders in the cooking greens field. The opportunity to be a member of the San Miguel Family and to be a part of their future is extremely exciting.”
According to a press release, Killeen has worked with a variety of produce companies. He began his career at Dole Fresh Fruit and was involved in both citrus and banana sales for nearly 10 years. Since then, he has held positions at New Star Fresh Foods, Tanimura & Antle, and Muranaka Farm. He most recently worked with Mastronardi Produce-West, where he served as Director of Business Development.
“We are excited for the energy, experience, and leadership John will bring to help drive performance and growth throughout the company,” stated Jan Berk, COO. “John’s extensive experience in the produce industry will be invaluable in further developing San Miguel Produce’s customer relationships and tailoring strategies for our business.”
Throughout his career, Killeen has led successful teams throughout sales, marketing, and operations in a variety of produce categories. In addition to a robust sales and marketing background, the company noted that Killeen’s previous experience as a General Manager will be a great asset to San Miguel Produce’s growth in the West.
Congratulations from all of us here at AndNowUKnow to John on his new position!
DEWITT, MI - I’ve been eating asparagus on and off for the past couple of weeks now, both organic and conventional. One of my favorite dishes that my dad makes is Salt & Pepper Shrimp with Asparagus, and I look forward to that every, single, year (I’ve already requested it four times this summer). Sadly up in Michigan, asparagus has come to an end, but growers are enjoying a well-deserved break after a busy season. Michigan growers had a booming 6-7 week growing season thanks to ideal weather conditions. April showers bring asparagus sprouts.
“When the weather gets hot, the asparagus just shoots up,” explains John Bakker, Executive Director of the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board. “Under the right conditions, we’ll see up to 10 inches of growth in a single day. Those are the days that require us to go through a field two or three times to harvest. If a grower gets behind, they’ll have to mow the field and lose that part of the harvest—that’s why the mild temperatures we had this season are so important.”
The steady and predictable growth this year produced superb sprouts, displaying excellent tip quality, delicious fresh flavor, and desirable thickness. According to the press release, the USDA reported that this year’s fresh market production reached an all-time high of 14 million pounds and 7 million pounds were sold. This season, the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board plowed through the summer with nationwide consumer-facing campaigns that emphasized freshness, food miles, sustainability, and supporting local farmers. Along with the campaigns, weekly swag giveaways featuring themed hoodies, kitchen towels, and shopping bags brought customer engagement. The response was positive—consumers overwhelmingly expressed they preferred to purchase locally and many became advocates for Michigan Asparagus.
Congratulations to the Michigan asparagus farmers! We at AndNowUKnow hope you enjoy your well-deserved break and we can’t wait to see you again during your next harvest.
RICHMOND, VA - B&W Quality Growers has been sold to Blue Road Capital, an independent private equity firm focused on the acquisition and development of agricultural-focused businesses. Harris Williams, a global investment bank, helped advise B&W Quality Growers on its sale, guiding the grower—one of the world’s largest growers of distinctive baby leaves like watercress, arugula, and other specialty leafy greens and a portfolio company of Boyne Capital Partners—toward more growth in the retail and foodservice sectors.
“B&W has experienced tremendous growth under Boyne’s ownership, and we are proud to represent the company and Boyne on this transaction,” said Tim Alexander, a Managing Director at Harris Williams. “We look forward to seeing B&W’s bright future in the foodservice and retail channels as chefs and consumers alike continue to demand more nutritious and flavorful food and become increasingly aware of superfoods like watercress.”
According to a press release, B&W operates three processing facilities in three states and farming operations across eight states, growing, packing, and shipping specialty leafy greens to foodservice, retail, wholesale, and specialty channels year-round. The Fellsmere, Florida-based company is also dedicated to sustainable farming techniques and is GLOBAL G.A.P. certified.
“Suppliers that bring innovation to chefs and simplify operations in the kitchen are winning in today’s market. The quality that consumers expect at five-star restaurants is also making its way into the grocery store and companies like B&W are benefitting,” said Brant Cash, a Managing Director at Harris Williams. “Investor appetite in the food industry continues to be robust, and companies exhibiting steady growth over the long term and across multiple channels truly stand out.”
While no details have been disclosed at this time on what this transaction will yield for B&W and Blue Road, AndNowUKnow will continue to keep you apprised of all the latest fresh produce news.
PORTLAND, OR - In the heart of summer, the weather may be sweltering and the AC working overtime, but the berries are plentiful, and in that, friends, there is reason to rejoice. Berries abound this season, bringing joy to the taste buds of backyard BBQ-ers and all who seek to partake in the produce bonanza that is summer. Bridges Produce, berry expert, is bringing its exceptional Northwest-grown organic berries to market throughout the season, so consumers across the country can stain their teeth and fill their bellies with some of summer’s juiciest fruits.
“Our growers are flavor focused, hand-picked operations that utilize aggressive pruning and multiple harvests, while patiently waiting for peak maturity to ensure excellent size and quality,” said Michael McMillan, Berry Category Manager. “Most shippers are moving to mechanical harvesting for the fresh market, which results in less mature fruit that has had more handling. We are also increasingly relying on shade cloth to manage fruit stress and bring fruit with superior flavor to the consumers.”
Bridges Produce is expanding its Northwest organic blueberry program, teaming up with production partners in all key growing regions of the Pacific Northwest. The company is able to provide continuous supply throughout the summer months from a diverse group of fresh market-focused independent operations who cultivate specialty berries. This year’s tumultuous weather had berry and summer fruit lovers concerned, but the Northwest growing region area has remained on track for a normal season.
“While the start date is late-to-normal, it has been an ideal growing season so far and we have strong supply ahead,” McMillan commented.
Bridges Produce’s blueberry season began the week of June 24 and product will ship through the end of September. A full range of pack sizes, including 6 oz, pint, 18 oz, and 2 lb, will be available through July before transitioning into smaller packs in August. Starting in late July and shipping through September, Bridges will also offer organic blackberries from Hayton Farms—one of its grower partners, and a fifth-generation family farm. The blackberry program will reach its peak during a tight supply window, with limited availability.
“Initially we thought that we sustained cane damage from last winter’s record low temperatures, but we are now anticipating a normal-to-strong season,” said McMillan.
Bridges Produce prides itself on connecting customers to the right growers and right product to bring maximum value to both parties—all while providing a continuous supply of berries and logistical support throughout the domestic summer season, across multiple growing regions.
“Bridges’ strength lies in being able to bring together this group of dedicated family farms to create one robust full season program that allows ease and convenience for the customer,” commented Sydney Fairchild, Marketing and Compliance. “We also ensure that all our berries are grown and packed by operations that have current third-party food safety certifications and are dedicated to the constantly evolving industry food safety and traceability standards.”
With berry season in full swing, a steady supply is key, as consumers will be craving their favorite summer treats and won’t want to wait. I predict berry pies as far as the eye can see—deep purple hues, glistening in the sun, and children scampering around, faces smudged with berry juice—a true sign of the season.
To get all the updates on summer fruits, keep reading AndNowUKnow.