CALIFORNIA - This summer, I’m in a California state of mind. No, it’s not just because I live here—it’s because of the wave of fresh fruits and veg coming out of the Golden State that is hitting produce aisles across the nation. The latest addition to the produce party is California pears, with harvest starting in mid-July. Instead of importing pears, retailers and consumers can look forward to domestically-sourced fruit grown in the good ‘ol US of A to round out their summer produce portfolios.
“To ensure top quality, most shippers will be hand-selecting the largest fruit first and pre-conditioning so consumers can enjoy ripe, ready-to-eat fruit from the beginning of our season,” said Chris Zanobini, Executive Director of the California Pear Advisory Board.
This summer, California pear shippers are anticipating they will harvest 2.28 million packages of Bartlett pears, slightly more than last year’s crop of just over two million packages. Though Bartlett pears are the primary variety grown in California, the state will also be churning out an anticipated 500,000 boxes of other varieties, led by Golden Bosc. More offered heirloom varieties include Sunsprite, Starkcrimson, Read pears, traditional Bosc, Comice, Seckel, and French Butter, as well as a limited supply of organic varieties.
Bartlett harvest will begin July 22 in the River Delta growing region of California, with the Mendocino growing area’s harvest planned for August 5, and Lake County slated to begin on August 12. California growers are unique in that, because the state is able to offer fresh pears for its entire shipping period, they believe in harvesting and marketing the traditional way instead of using controlled atmosphere storage or chemically treating the fruit for longer-shelf life.
Zanobini told me that once mid-July hits and harvest begins, California will be offering the only freshly harvested pears available for sale, and California shippers are poised and ready to capitalize on the opportunity to promote “new crop” pears to consumers.
“Now is the time for retail stores nationwide to begin planning promotions for this early season, freshly harvested California pears,” he continued. “In fact, marketing research clearly shows the early summer pear season is absolutely the most profitable for retail pear sales.”
The California Pear Advisory Board cultivates an active social media presence on channels like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest, so buyers and consumers can gather all the pear info their hearts desire.
“We encourage consumers and produce buyers alike to follow us on these properties for a host of recipes, handling tips, and to meet the farming families who grow their food,” Zanobini said.
To this day, around 60 farming families continue to produce pears in California orchards—some of which have been in operation for over a century. Currently, pears are sold by four California pear shipping companies—David J. Elliot and Son, Greene and Hemly, Rivermaid Trading Company, and Scully Packing.
“Today’s California pears are grown by fourth- and fifth-generation families who are farming the same land their grandparents and great-grandparents did during the California Gold Rush,” Zanobini concludes. “The California Bartlett pear is truly heirloom variety and we want consumers to enjoy the rich history of our farming community as much as they enjoy our pears.”
So whether enjoying them off the tree, in a salad, pie, or perhaps even grilled, consumers will have no trouble getting their hands on those coveted California pears.
AndNowUKnow will continue to keep you updated on all the harvest updates you crave.
CHINA - Two banana trucks in the Yunnan Province of China—one of the country’s hot spots for drug production—were intercepted last week after authorities caught wind that there might be more than innocent bunches of bananas in the back. According to a report by China.org.cn, a border control detachment in the city of Pu’er discovered 110.42 kilograms (243.43 pounds) of methamphetamine.
While the naïve part of me is hoping this was simply a misunderstanding, and one in which Walter White and Jesse Pinkman return to prime time television to resume fictional shenanigans—emphasis on the fictional part—the facts don’t lie, and this case’s facts are showing that two very real, very illicit suspects were arrested for trafficking 166 packages of the illegal drug.
The news source noted that police are in the process of investigating more in order to put the kibosh on any further drug production.
Do you like staying up-to-date on all the ways global authorities have kept produce squeaky clean and stopped all fruit-and-veg-related crimes? Then stay right here with AndNowUKnow because there's only one thing we like more than produce, and that's justice.
HOUSTON, TX - Sysco is a formidable force in our industry. It seems that every day when I drive to work, I steer around a Sysco truck delivering goods to the multitude of restaurants cropping up in Sacramento. And as foodservice needs go up, Sysco’s footprint rises alongside it. Recently, according to a report from Kent Reporter, the company has made plans to expand its distribution center in Kent, Washington.
The warehouse expansion will include an additional 102,739 square feet, which will accommodate both freezer and cooler space. Permits filed with the city show that there will also be a mechanical room and several loading docks.
Amidst promising third quarter results—which showed a 33.3 percent net earnings climb—the distributor has recently expanded its North Carolina facility and its Jacksonville, Florida facility.
Will we see more facility expansions in the wake of these last three? AndNowUKnow will continue to offer the latest in foodservice happenings.
FALLBROOK, CA - The new state-of-the-art facility in Vista, California, opened its doors with four top-notch ripening rooms, a highly efficient refrigerated storage, a large staging area for quicker truck loading, and an enthusiastic Operations Manager. The attention to detail shines through from the packing line placement down to the excellent restroom facilities in the waiting areas for drivers as Del Rey Avocado's commitment to great service extends throughout the entire distribution process. Months of searching have led Del Rey to Brent Portell, with over 11 years of cross-functional management expertise, in the hopes to maintain the highest levels of customer service in the industry.
“I was looking for a new challenge in my career, and tackling the challenges and opportunities associated with opening a new facility really appealed to me,” Portell reflected. “Best of all, I get to be on the ground floor of customer base expansion.”
Portell’s list of skills ranges from production, sales, business development, product procurement, and food safety. His repertoire certainly speaks for itself and makes him the perfect fit for the position.
“We could not be happier with our decision to hire Brent,” said President Bob Lucy. “He is the type of person that is not afraid to get his hands dirty and lend a hand when needed in order to meet our customers expectations.”
Portell’s eagerness to meet company standards has put him through a rigorous training regime. He’s immersed himself in the proven business practices from day one in Fallbrook, the company’s headquarters, and has spent a week in the new Vineland, New Jersey, facility.
Jessica Hunter, Vice President of Operations, commented, “The combination of his highly relevant industry experience, work ethic, enthusiasm, and education made Brent an ideal choice for our family owned company.”
AndNowUKnow is excited to see what Portell brings to the trendy avocado scene, so stay tuned for more fresh news.
RICHMOND, VA - Performance Food Group Company (PFG) has recently announced its acquisition of foodservice distributor Reinhart Foodservice from Reyes Holdings—a transaction valued at $2 billion.
“We are excited to announce the strategic acquisition of Reinhart and welcome them to Performance Food Group,” said George Holm, PFG Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer. “I’ve known the Reyes family for nearly two decades, and they have built and grown an incredible company. We believe the addition of Reinhart and its complementary strengths will expand Performance Foodservice’s broadline presence, improve our network efficiency, and help us achieve our long-term growth goals. This transaction provides us with greater overall scale, a diverse customer base, including a solid base of independent customers, and builds upon our strong distribution platform. We believe these attributes along with attractive financial characteristics will enhance our ability to continue to deliver the service our customers need to succeed and create shareholder value."
This acquisition of Reinhart’s distribution footprint will enhance and expand PFG’s existing distribution platform and market density, according to a press release. By the third year following the acquisition, PFG anticipates $50 million in annual run-rate cost synergies.
“We are excited to partner with PFG and believe this acquisition provides meaningful benefits to our customers and expanded opportunities for our employees,” said J. Christopher Reyes, Reyes Holdings Co-Chairman. “PFG has a solid track record of growth and leadership in our industry. We believe our strengths and the strong cultural connection our companies share will support continued success for many years to come.”
After the acquisition is completed, PFG will be positioned as one of the largest distributors in the country, with approximately $30 billion in net sales.
“Reinhart Foodservice understands the important role our associates play in our success. We have proudly invested in our people and infrastructure to build our business, and we’re excited about this acquisition knowing that PFG supports a similar approach,” said M. Jude Reyes, Reyes Holdings Co-Chairman.
To read the full details of the acquisition, click here.
Will this acquisition rock the world of food distribution? AndNowUKnow will continue to report.
TAMPA, FL - From Secretary-Treasurer to Vice Chairman and now Chairman of the Board for the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA), Michael Wasson has climbed through the ranks during his time on the board with a vast wealth of experience backing him up. Wasson also chaired the RPA’s Operations and Logistics Committee in 2017 in conjunction with his current role on the Board of the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). His 20 years of broad-based supply chain and operations experience in large-size organizations will bring much insight and perspectives in his new role.
“I am excited to lead a strong Board to strategically position RPA during a time of rapid transformation on how products are packed and moved in supply chains,” said Wasson. “With reuse as the preferred approach to manage packaging materials sustainably, RPA’s primary role to raise awareness about reuse has never been greater. I am honored to follow Rick Sasse’s leadership at RPA in advancing the industry opportunities for all association members.”
CEO of Paxxal Ben Stoller will serve as the new Vice Chairman, while Kevin Mazula, CEO of RM2, will now be the new Secretary-Treasurer. David Kruger, President of TriEnda Holdings, has also been welcomed as a new Board member.
Hillary Femal, the previous Chairman of the Board from 2015-2016, will now be occupying a new staff role as Chief Marketing Officer. Her 15-year career in the reusable packaging industry has led her to hold roles such as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for 48forty Solutions and Vice President of Global Marketing for IFCO Systems. She will now lead RPA’s marketing programs to increase awareness in sustainable packaging systems.
“RPA is enhancing our capabilities to support the growth of the reusable packaging industry and to advance the common business interests of member companies,” said President and CEO Tim Debus. “With much attention around the world on the preference to reuse packaging in circular economy models, RPA is pleased to add Hillary Femal to our team to help demonstrate how our members offer product and service solutions for the adoption and optimization of reusable packaging systems.”
Will the new additions revolutionize the reusable industry? Keep following AndNowUKnow regarding this hot topic.
TEMPLE, PA - Organic Produce Summit is creeping up on us, and I for one can’t wait to head to Monterey and get my fill of the latest and greatest in organic goodness. One such company that is sure to wow me—and the industry—is Giorgio Fresh, which will be showcasing its full line of organic mushrooms. I spoke to Greg Sagan, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing, to learn more.
“Giorgio is the largest organic mushroom grower in the United States and we continue to increase our organic production,” Greg begins. “We are a one-stop-shop for all organic varieties, including exotic mushrooms like shiitake and royal trumpet.”
A family-owned company for over 90 years, Giorgio knows a thing or two about growing quality mushrooms. In fact, its emphasis has always been on ensuring the highest-quality possible—while still innovating the category.
“Items like Savory Wild, our plant-based, healthy snacking solution, highlights Giorgio’s place in on-trend categories like jerky. Our BLENDABELLA™, a tapenade of diced portabella mushrooms, vegetables, and herbs provides consumers with endless recipe options from quick appetizers to gourmet creations,” Greg shares.
Believe me when I tell you, consumers will be unable to stop themselves from adding these products into their daily routine.
For the latest on OPS-related news, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
CAPISTRANO BEACH, CA - When it comes to organics, vision is everything, but only when paired with exceptional execution. LIV Organic Produce is one of those companies bridging the gap between the growing consumer demand for premium organic produce and what retailers and foodservice operators can, want, and need to offer for their own competitive edge and benefit in the marketplace. By partnering with growers throughout California, Washington, Oregon, and Mexico, LIV Organic creates a unique year-round program offering organic citrus, hard squash, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and melons for its customers.
“Our goal is to bring only the most premium products to our partners’ programs and offer exceptional value from the field to the produce department and the foodservice table,” Anthony Innocenti, Co-Founder, shares with me. “We will move around, region by region, to find the best of what is being grown organically with the highest integrity and best flavor. Our growers are in their fields and groves every day ensuring this unparalleled commitment to quality.”
Differentiation is key within the competitive organic space. And much of that, for LIV Organic, is who the company brings into its operational fold and how they execute their vision.
“We build our relationships on a foundation of trust and integrity that is an integral part of our program that you can taste in the fruit. Working so close with our growers allows the retailers to be confident in the product we are providing and our field inspectors are in the groves daily ensuring the fruit is being harvested at the perfect time,” Carrie Briones, Sales and Grower Relations, shares with me. “The years of experience combined on the LIV team gives us an edge in reacting to issues and putting together successful planning and execution.”
Anthony adds that the team works exclusively with family farms, most of them smaller and multi-generational.
“Their stories are part of the authentic fabric of who we are. Consumers can hear their stories through our packaging, website, and social media,” he notes.
LIV Organic will have its team at the Organic Produce Summit in force just in time for the summer push. So, come one for all and learn more.
“From citrus to sweet potatoes, it really has to do with the group of family farms that are supplying us,” Anthony says. “We have allowed them to help us engineer the items we will specialize in because those are the crops they have grown over their long careers and decades of being stewards to the ground.”
It truly is about the authenticity at LIV Organic, bridging the gap between these families who grow the highest quality organic crops and the best retailers and store shelves.
“Believe me, we ALL get excited when we see a grower walk into his or her favorite store and touch the fruit they worked so hard to produce,” Anthony says with a smile.
This sentiment and vision that goes into each piece of produce is one that Anthony values above all else—and believe me, you can taste it in LIV Organic’s fresh fruits and vegetables.
Please visit LIV Organic and OPS booth #113 to see it all for yourself!
AUSTIN, TX - If you’ve been in attendance at any of our industry’s trade shows in the last couple of years, then you’re probably well aware that consumers are clamoring for anything local and healthy—two concentric circles that Whole Foods Market has long dominated. But, with Sprouts Farmers Market, Costco, Wegmans, Walmart, and even convenience stores tapping more small independent brands, Whole Foods is finding that its seat at the head of the “local” table is a precarious one. In response, Whole Foods held a Local Supplier Summit on June 20th to remedy its supplier relations, build new partnerships, and launch a new We Love Local campaign.
According to a report by the Boston Globe, as part of Whole Foods’ redoubled efforts to support and offer local brands, the retailer is aiming to expand its supplier count and bolster sales by doubling the number of its staff working on local programs, launching local Wednesdays, and offering in-store demo programs that are estimated to increase sales by 200 percent. This commitment was shared with the 250+ North Atlantic-based suppliers in attendance at the Summit—many of which had voiced concerns about Whole Foods’ ailing local program.
“It wasn’t that local wasn’t important to us as we were launching with Amazon and Prime,” Don Clark, Global Vice President of Purchasing for Non-Perishables at Whole Foods, shared with the news source. “It just got muted. It wasn’t mentioned as much in our stores.”
Will Whole Foods’ latest efforts repair the grocer’s status as a haven for small, independent, and local suppliers? And will it increase its supplier partnerships by tenfold? To hear from many of the suppliers in attendance, read the full Boston Globe article here, and to stay in the know on all that affects the produce industry, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
SEATTLE, WA - Amazon has seemingly been leading the pack in the grocery delivery race, but has recently announced a new direction with the U.S. launch of a new service called Counter. The new service will maintain a network of staffed pickup points where Amazon customers can pick up their packages in a partner brick-and-mortar location. Amazon is kicking off the service with more than a hundred Counter locations in Rite Aids across the country, and plans on adding thousands more.
“Amazon is always looking for innovative and convenient ways for customers to ship and receive their orders,” said Patrick Supanc, Worldwide Director of Amazon Hub. “With Counter, we’ve leveraged our growing logistics network and invested in new, easy to use technology to give customers yet another delivery option rooted in flexibility and control. We are excited to partner with national businesses like Rite Aid, and local businesses in the future, to create an outstanding experience for our shared customers.”
Counter was originally launched in the U.K and was well received and drove strong customer engagement and additional foot traffic for partners. Because of the positive results, Amazon has launched the service in the U.S. in more than a hundred Rite Aid stores across the country, with 1,500 locations planned by the end of the year.
Though Counter is part of the Amazon Hub family, it is different from the retailer’s other services, Locker, Locker+, and Apartment Locker. Using Counter is simple; customers purchase items on Amazon.com just as they normally would, but will select one of the Counter pickup points based on their zip code, according to a press release. Once the package arrives at the store, customers receive an e-notification with a unique barcode to prompt them to go to the pickup location, have staff scan the barcode, and retrieve the package. Delivery to Counter locations works with Same-Day, One-Day, Two-Day, and Standard Shipping.
“Creating a seamless, convenient customer experience is a key element of our strategy and digital transformation,” said Jocelyn Konrad, Executive Vice President, Pharmacy and Retail Operations of Rite Aid. “Being the first store partner for Counter in the U.S. is a differentiator for Rite Aid and we believe our partnership with Amazon, that includes Locker, creates a stronger in-store experience for existing customers and new customers that come in to pick up their packages.”
Is this test service something other grocery retailers will soon mimic? Could the market be shifting from delivery to pickup? AndNowUKnow will continue to report.