MONTEREY, CA - Divine Flavor’s attention to detail, commitment to quality, and long-term industry experience are made evident by the flavor shown across its full portfolio. From table grapes to tomatoes and beyond, the company continues to up its prowess in both organic and conventional offerings, all thanks to its thriving company culture.

“We're a proud organic grower and shipper,” Alán Aguirre Camou, Chief Marketing Officer, shared in an exclusive interview with ANUK. “We've been in the industry for over 30 years, and we were also a part of the movement in the ’90s on growing organics—before it was a trend, before it was popular, before it was cool. It was thanks to our founders that we had that culture instilled in us.”

Divine Flavor achieves high quality and flavor through sustainable growing practices, making sure to take care of the soil that produces its robust portfolio.

“It's not about the product, it's more about the long-term commitment at the farm and also not putting too many pesticides or fertilizers to the history of the terrain of the farm,” Alán added. “That assures that we—regardless if we do organic or not—if we do conventional, it's still a top high-flavor product like it was done by an artisan farmer. Every single box, every single product is very important for us, regardless of the price and how we're doing in the market. We try to take care of every single product.”

Be sure to watch our exclusive video above, and check out our previous interview with Alán here.

For more company exclusives like this one, stay here on the pages of ANUK.

MONTEREY, CA - Learning the ins and outs of the companies that make up the canvas of fresh produce is one of this job’s simple pleasures. Stepping behind the curtain with Divine Flavor’s Alán Aguirre Camou, Chief Marketing Officer, we heard details about specialty varieties, the grower’s extensive organic product portfolio, and more.

“We have specialty grapes like the Cotton Candy™, [a] very famous one, [and] the Jelly Berries™. It's a black grape, [a] Concord tasting grape,” he noted, also detailing that Divine Flavor offers Gummyberries™, which taste very similar to a gummy bear.

The provider offers the popular AUTUMNCRISP® green grapes as well, which are known for their spectacular crunch.

“Besides that, we're also doing bell peppers [and] mini peppers in different packaging presentations, [as well as] long English cucumber [and] Persian cucumber,” he added.

You’ll also want to check out the company’s new packaging across its Magnifico grape tomato line.

“On average, [the Magnifico grape tomato] has a higher brix than most grape tomatoes in the market,” Alán noted.

To learn more about the company, watch our exclusive video above.

Keep watching and reading AndNowUKnow for the latest in all things fresh produce.

WILMINGTON, NC - We reported on Monday that Hurricane Debby had become a tropical storm after making landfall on the Florida coast. Just last night, we received word that the storm is now strengthening and torrential rain is expected along the Eastern Seaboard, potentially leading to flooding as rainfall amounts could exceed 25 inches, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

We learned from FOX Weather that rain coverage was limited yesterday morning due to dry air conditions. However, tides were changing as the storm continued to pull energy from the warm Atlantic waters. As of yesterday afternoon, the NHC reported that maximum sustained winds had increased to nearly 60 mph. Even higher gusts were experienced as the center of the storm approached the coast of South Carolina.

North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia have all declared states of emergency with the storm drawing nearer. Emergency declarations have also been approved for Florida, authorizing federal assistance for those four states.

At this point in time, we are unsure as to how the storm has impacted produce growers on the East Coast. However, ANUK will be sure to keep you updated as we learn more.

CALIFORNIA - After providing 40 years of exceptional senior-level recruitment and leadership consulting, MIXTEC Group has proven its dedication to the produce industry. Its commitment to excellence in securing top-tier talent while helping those companies achieve their strategic goals has allowed the group to create long-lasting partnerships with organizations. Jerry Butt reflects on his 25 years with the company and this anniversary.

“Fresh produce stands out due to its exceptional people. For 25 years, I’ve worked with entrepreneurial, insightful owners, boards, and CEOs who embody dedication and success,” said Jerry Butt, Chief Executive Officer. “Our role is to highlight their stories and connect them with truly extraordinary executives. Collaborating with these dynamic individuals to refine business strategies and enhance this great industry is, without a doubt, the most rewarding part of my business life.”

MIXTEC Group’s senior leadership team consists of seasoned professionals including: Jerry Butt as CEO, Kristen Reid as Executive Vice President, and Emily Fragoso as Vice President. Each individual is actively contributing to the betterment of the future of the agriculture industry, a press release mentioned, and the MIXTEC leadership team's exceptional contributions have been recognized through prestigious accolades further solidifying its reputation as a leading force in the agribusiness executive recruitment landscape.

“I love what I do and the people I do it with. I serve an industry full of passionate people doing great things for the world,” commented Reid. “I cannot think of a career more gratifying than the one I have. To be able to connect the right people with the right companies and see the incredible things they achieve together is inspiring. I am so fortunate to play a part in the evolution and advancement of this truly special industry.”

Founded by Ward Fredericks in 1984, the California-based firm focused right away on integrity and white glove service levels.

It wasn’t until 1998 when Chris Nelson joined MIXTEC Group that the company shifted its recruiting focus to fresh produce. The relationship-driven agriculture industry proved to be fruitful for the firm, and MIXTEC quickly established itself as a trusted partner.

“It's truly a privilege to partner with businesses in every stage of transformation and growth,” said Fragoso of her 11-year tenure. “Connecting talented executives with visionary organizations isn't just about filling positions; it's about forging relationships that have the potential to elevate people, companies, and the industry. Witnessing the ripple effect—from empowered leaders to thriving teams and an industry evolving—is nothing short of amazing. Here's to four decades of impactful connections, and to many more years of shaping the future together, is inspiring. I am so fortunate to play a part in the evolution and advancement of this truly special industry.”

Cheers to MIXTEC, and here’s to another 40 years!

SALISBURY, NC - When Food Lion announces a new retail location, you can expect a modernized layout with an expanded product assortment and strategically enhanced shopping experience. The chain announced its latest expansion with the introduction of a new Florence, South Carolina, store. 

“I’m honored to continue to serve the town of Florence in our new location,” said David Smith, Store Manager of the new Florence Food Lion. “Our neighbors will continue to recognize our associates’ familiar faces while finding an expanded assortment at affordable prices. We are committed to delivering an enjoyable shopping experience while nourishing our Pee Dee neighbors.”

Food Lion has nourished the Florence community for more than three decades, the company shared in a press release, before officially opening the story yesterday, August 7.

The store boasts an extensive product assortment, including fresh produce and in-store prepared cut fruit, along with a large selection of plant-based, organic, and gluten-free products. As the release noted, the store also features quality meats and a variety of affordable and easy meal solutions that are ready-to-eat, ready-to-cook, or ready-to-heat.

The store also puts a heightened focus on local offerings, such as in-season produce grown at Senn Brothers Produce in nearby West Columbia.

With a focus on convenience for its customers, the new Food Lion store offers self-checkout lanes and Food Lion To Go Pickup or Home Delivery services. Online orders may be placed through the Food Lion To Go website or the app.

Read more about the new store and the philanthropic initiatives sparked by this expansion here.

As always, leave a tab open to ANUK for the latest retail insights.