UNITED STATES - For a third year straight, Wegmans has topped Fortune’s Best Workplaces in Retail, edging Publix out of number one in a tight race for 2018 retail excellence. Wegmans also took second in the magazine’s 2018 100 Best Companies to Work For—narrowly beating famously worker-friendly companies like Ultimate Software, Edward Jones, and Workday. Publix took second. And following up in seventh place, Woodland, California-based Nugget Market scored high marks in its 13th consecutive year atop the list.
Wegmans scored high marks in all the publication's metrics.
“Thank goodness for our employees. They make Wegmans a happy place to work and shop,” said CEO Colleen Wegman, in a press release. “Their work is both meaningful and fun, and that’s an unbeatable combination.”
Publix, likewise, released a press release celebrating the company’s upward move from 2017’s third place to 2018’s second. The 1,200-store and seven-state strong banner was celebrated for its “great atmosphere, bosses, and pride” in a company press release.
“[Publix] actually care[s] about your life outside of work—your short- and long-term goals, beliefs, your family, your struggles and successes,” said one survey participant. “We aren't treated like work robots with one sole purpose, we are treated with great respect and appreciation.”
Nugget Market’s nearly 1,900 associates likewise expressed approval for their workplace.
One Nugget employee noted: “It’s the only job that I've had that makes me feel like I’m a real contributor to the workplace, not just another worker bee. My hard work is noticed and rewarded both within store awards but also through raises and promotions.”
“The dynamic personalities and talents of our associates and leadership create our spirited culture of family and fun, and by extension, provide our guests an extraordinary grocery experience,” said Eric Stille, President and CEO of Nugget, in a press release. “We’re proud of our unique and diverse culture, and honored to be ranked among the best in the country.”
To compile its Best Workplaces in Retail list, Great Place to Work® used anonymous survey feedback from more than 631,000 employees working in retail in the United States. Employees answered a 60 question survey “describing the extent to which their organization creates a Great Place to Work For All™.”
For more retail news as it pertains to fresh fruits and veggies, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
ORLANDO, FL - SUNSET® made Orlando even sunnier than usual at last month’s PMA Fresh Summit, for there’s nothing better than two organizations joining together to bring berries to all.
I spoke to Dean Taylor, Director of Sales and Commodity Planning, to find out more.
“The Mastronardi-Berry World joint venture came together this year, and we’re bringing the best of two organizations,” Dean explained to me. “You have a built-in customer base with Mastronardi’s extraordinary customers, a nationwide logistics program, and of course, with Berry World, we have award-winning varieties.”
Providing berries year-round, it’s no wonder that these varieties are in high demand.
“We think people are going to seek out our brand because of the high flavor in all of our varieties,” he concluded.
For more, watch our brief video interview above.
WILLIAMSVILLE, NY - Beleaguered retailer Tops Markets turned a corner this week. Tops noted that the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York confirmed the company’s Plan of Reorganization, and it's set to complete restructuring and emerge from Chapter 11 in the near future.
“We are pleased to receive the Court’s approval of our Plan and are poised to emerge from this process an even stronger and more competitive company,” said Frank Curci, Chief Executive Officer, in a press release. “Through this process, we have accomplished several key objectives, including significantly reducing our debt, creating a viable cost structure, and efficiently optimizing our store portfolio. Importantly, we provided an opportunity for employment to every associate who was interested and impacted by store closings at other nearby stores. Our restructuring will create an even more exceptional shopping experience for our customers and assure that we will continue to serve our communities like no one else can.”
Tops initially filed for Chapter 11 this February, hoping to restructure a large amount of accumulated debt. The retailer first filed restructuring plans in August—plans that detailed the closing of underperforming stores—ten of the company’s then 169 locations.
Curci added: “On behalf of everyone at Tops, I want to thank all Tops associates, who have continued to provide customers with convenient, friendly and high-quality service. I also want to thank our loyal customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders for their continued support throughout this process.”
For more on Tops, as the company climbs onward and upward, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
ORLANDO, FL - Last month, SUNSET® brought the party to Orlando (a feat, for sure), taking to PMA Fresh Summit with a new rock star product.
I spoke to Peppe Bonfiglio, Director of Sales, to find out more about Sugar Bombs.
“So Mastronardi Produce is a fourth generation tomato grower—family-owned—and our focus here is flavor. Today, we're featuring our Sugar Bombs,” Peppe explained. “It’s a follow up to our Flavor Bombs—off the chart sweet flavor with a smooth finish. With the name Sugar Bombs, we thought we had a cool little rock theme—dark colors that really bring out the flavor of that tomato.”
Attendees were treated to a sneak peek at this latest seasonal item—in line with its popular Sugar Bombs brand (harmonizing, so to speak).
“They're gonna be a seasonal item—we're launching here at PMA,” Peppe noted.
For more, watch our brief video interview above.
CORAL GABLES, FL - In the U.S., November marks the arrival of melons grown off-shore in Honduras and Guatemala, and the return of growing season to local farming communities is celebrated. With an understanding that local farmers play a significant role in supplying produce to consumers, Fyffes has put in place several initiatives to support workers and their families year-round, including a corn-planting program, organizing family orchards, and trading hand tools for tractors. These initiatives are aimed at providing an off-season source of income to improve both the quality and variety of food available to Fyffes sourcing regions.
Since 2014, Fyffes has sponsored a program through which its seasonal workers can plant and cultivate corn. In 2018, the company provided the husking equipment, irrigation sources, necessary fuel, and on-site technical expertise.
“The well-being of our employees and of the communities in which we operate is a Fyffes core value,” said North America President Enda Walsh. “We are always exploring ways in which to partner with communities who face challenges."
In early 2018, Fyffes partnered with the Honduran chapter of non-profit Amigos de la Tierra (“Friends of the Earth”) to engage the community in five neighboring villages. Their plan? To develop family orchards as a way to alleviate hunger, provide a source of supplemental income, and improve the quality and variety of foods consumed.
“Creating these family orchards is a sustainable solution for some of the off-season’s challenges that our farming communities face,” said Global Sustainability Director Julie Cournoyer in a company press release. “We are particularly encouraged by programs that can benefit groups that are not as easily employable, such as senior citizens—a core value of Fyffes.”
Through this initiative, Fyffes’ local subsidiaries provided communities with water barrels and the equipment used for the orchards’ irrigation systems.
The final initiative is one in which neighboring Fyffes' farms are given Fyffes-owned tractors to plow fields that would otherwise be tilled by hand. Farmers say the program has resulted in increased crop yields that are helping to keep the local independent farming tradition alive. The result is a strong and “deep-rooted” variety of local food staples that include corn, chayote, sorghum, cassava, and beans that are both consumed at home and sold at market as an additional income source.
“As a produce company, we are well aware of the challenges independent farmers face, and we’re pleased to help some of them improve their working conditions while increasing crop yields,” added Cournoyer. “It ultimately translates into greater well-being for all.”
For more on how those in our industry are working to better their communities, keep reading us here at AndNowUKnow.
NEW ZEALAND - You would think one of the world’s largest discount chains would be an advocate for, well, giving its shoppers discounts, right? But it appears retail chain Aldi could be attempting to sneak good deals from right under shoppers’ noses to allegedly increase grocery trip spending. According to the Herald Sun, Aldi has phased in smaller unit price labeling across its 523 stores, literally minimizing its shoppers’ ability to quickly compare the value of varying products.
This week, reports surfaced that Aldi decreased the font size of unit pricing from 5 millimeters to 3 millimeters as well as altered the font from bold to regular print. Many shoppers immediately drew attention to the chain’s labeling mishap and criticized the move.
“The unit prices are much less prominent and legible for shoppers, so they are less likely to notice and use them to help make decisions about what they are going to buy,” Ian Jarratt, Queensland Consumers Association Spokesman, told the Herald Sun. “The consequence is shoppers don’t necessarily get the best value, and they end up potentially spending more.”
An Aldi spokesperson was quick to defend the chain, amending the font change was an attempt to “declutter” the labels and “provide clear and clean information” to shoppers.
“As a market leader in the adoption and promotion of unit pricing, we have no interest in minimizing this information,” the spokesperson told news source Starts at 60. “Over the last 12 months we’ve been phasing in the introduction of in-store price card printers. Our new printers are now in more than 75 percent of our stores. We will actively seek customer feedback to ensure that our new approach to label pricing is not confusing our valued shoppers.”
Will Aldi’s claim be enough to get the retailer out of hot water with its loyal shoppers? AndNowUKnow will continue to report on the latest grocery retail news affecting the fresh produce industry.
NOGALES, AZ - The produce industry has transformed quite a bit over the past half a century, but one thing that has held fast in the face of change is the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) annual produce convention. Last week, the Association celebrated its 50th year of throwing one of the premier events celebrating Nogales agriculture, inviting produce professionals from across the region to the Tubac Golf Resort for some much deserved rejoicing. From November 1-3, the Nogales produce show highlighted high-quality educational sessions, networking opportunities, and, not to mention, delicious fresh produce.
"We had more than 800 attendees at the convention, and it was one of the largest to date, which is no surprise given all of the great events and the extra-special emphasis on our 50th year celebration," said FPAA President Lance Jungmeyer in a release from the Association. "Our guests commented on the quality of the speakers, the entertainment, and the sense of community our event is famous for."
This year’s FPAA convention was one of many highlights, including Thursday’s educational sessions. Jim Mullen, General Counsel of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and Bradley Hayes, Executive Director of the Office of Trade Relations at U.S. Customs and Border Protection, were among speakers at the show, as was Dari Duval from the University of Arizona, who spoke on the economic impact of the fresh produce supply chain on the U.S. economy. In addition, Thursday saw a panel of industry experts who discussed such hot topics as the new U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA), blockchain, food waste, social responsibility, and beyond.
"The produce industry is complex, and our educational sessions reflect that," said Jungmeyer. "We try to touch on some of the key things impacting members of the industry and to bring the experts on these issues so that we can foster a good dialogue."
Thursday night ended with the always fantastic opening fiesta, held in the outdoor plaza of the Tubac Golf Resort. With live music, a photo booth, a gallery showcasing 50 years of Nogales Produce Conventions, and amazing food created by Chef Pati Jinich, the fiesta was certainly a celebration worth kicking off a convention 50 years in the making.
"As a member of the board and an attendee, I appreciate a diverse program, which helped keep education sessions near seating capacity the whole day," said FPAA Chairman Scott Vandervoet of Vandervoet and Associates. "That momentum in attendance carried through to the whole event."
On Friday, the Consulate General of Mexico and the FPAA teamed up to host the 3rd Annual Culinary Showcase, inviting guests to experience food created by chefs across Arizona and Mexico. Participants were welcome to take a helicopter ride down "produce row" to the border and back and see for themselves how produce enters the U.S. and arrives at area warehouses in Santa Cruz County.
The first-ever Women's Leadership Invitational was also held on Friday and celebrated women of the produce industry. Sabrina Hallman of Sierra Seed Company, LLC led a panel discussion with guests including Cathy Burns of PMA, Rosie Cornelius of MAS Melons & Grapes, and Pati Jinich. Each speaker discussed lessons they have learned as women in their respective industries, strategies for success, and challenges they have overcome to be where they are today.
"I was honored to be part of the historic and inaugural Women's invitational. I learned so much from the panel, which had such trailblazing women willing to share constructive insights for hardworking women, whether you are in the produce industry or not," commented Pati. "It was a delight to interact with the audience which was so engaged and shared so many fascinating and meaningful stories."
Then, Friday night, the real party began. This year’s annual Gala was once again an elegant celebration, featuring entertainment, music, and special recognitions and awards. University of Arizona's Folklorico Dancers performed before Scott Vandervoet presented Rosie Cornelius with the Pillar of the FPAA Award. Given each year to Association members that have contributed greatly to the evolution and sustainability of the U.S. industry importing fresh produce from Mexico, the Pillar of the FPAA went to Rosie in recognition of her commitment to the community, industry, and, of course, the FPAA. Last but not least, the FPAA partnered with the Nogales U.S. Customs Brokers Association and the United Fresh Start Foundation to announce Little Red School #28 in Nogales, Arizona, as recipient of this year's salad bar donation.
Feeling green with envy for those who were able to attend the 50th anniversary convention? You’ll be able to celebrate the 51st in Tubac, Arizona, November 7-9, 2019 for another landmark show. 2019 will be the 75th year FPAA as been an association, so it's definitely one not to miss.
SALINAS, CA - Growth is on the horizon for D’Arrigo California, including the addition of two members to its team. The company announced it is proud to welcome Cody Ramsey as the Foodservice Manager and Shannon Aliotti as a Sales Representative.
“I am excited to work for such a progressive and dynamic family-owned produce company that has close to 100 years of being a titan in the produce industry as a grower, packer, and shipper of quality Andy Boy products,” Cody said. “D’Arrigo CA has really expanded their foodservice portfolio to include custom growing, organics and key services such as cross dock, consolidation, and commercial cooling giving them the competitive edge to be a one-stop shop year-round.”
The new Foodservice Manager brings extensive knowledge of project development and management to the table, according to a press release. Before joining D’Arrigo CA, he worked with Mann Packing for ten years, during which he directed sales and business efforts, specifically targeting the foodservice sector.
“We are thrilled to have Cody on board, he will bring a fresh perspective and approach to our sales office,” stated Dave Martinez, VP of Sales. “Cody has demonstrated an ability to harvest the limitless opportunities the industry has to offer and provide incredible insights to customer engagement and relationships.”
Director of Sales, John Scherpinski, noted that the company is expanding and enhancing its foodservice operations to better serve its valued customers.
“Cody’s leadership will help to elevate our service levels, attain our short and long-term business goals and build the overall category. Cody is unique in that he is well versed in strategic foodservice initiatives to manage customer relationships. His professional demeanor and expertise are great additions to our management team and our future business growth plans,” he concluded.
Shannon comes to D’Arrigo CA with 13 years of experience working in the sales sector, most recently having been a sales representative and commodity manager at NewStar Fresh Foods.
“I was attracted to join D’Arrigo CA because of the company’s respected and well known Andy Boy label that stands for top quality and consistency,” Shannon commented. “I am delighted to be part of such a sustainable and socially conscious produce company whose business portfolio expands from farming to solar panels, mechanical harvesting and more.”
At D’Arrigo CA, she will lead communication and execution of the day-to-day functions for several foodservice accounts.
“Shannon’s knowledge of produce coupled with her passion to find ways to enhance our daily sales execution will be an asset to our team,” John said on her joining the team. “Her depth of experience, knowledge, and communication skills will complement our growing team.”
Congratulations to D’Arrigo California and to its two newest team members!
ELGIN, MN - Honeybear Brands is not done rolling out premium apple varieties just yet. On the heels of the company’s debut of the First Kiss® MN 55 apple and two buzz generating, in-development, new varietals at PMA Fresh Summit, Honeybear Brands is also prepping the largest-ever offering of Pazazz. North American markets will welcome Pazazz on the shelves beginning as soon as December.
“We came out of a very busy PMA and just didn’t stop,” said Don Roper, Vice President, Sales and Marketing. “The show was about giving our buyers a sneak peek at some future star varietals we have in development, but it’s also now go time for Pazazz and we’re expecting really big things for our retailers this season. Hands down, across the board, the quality, color, and overall eating experience of Pazazz has never been better than what we’ve seen coming out of every one of our orchards.”
By January 2019, Honeybear expects Pazazz to be in more retail locations than ever before—more than 60 retail geographies across North America. Honeybear will also launch an integrated marketing campaign featuring digital consumer advertising and social media marketing that will incorporate top food influencers and select sponsored events.
According to a press release, Honeybear is also continuing work perfecting the two varieties debuted at Fresh Summit. They include:
- A red flesh apple with an attractive and surprising internal red blush; the red peel of the apple bleeds into the flesh around a red cream center
- A yellow apple with a unique, almost tropical flavor and an unexpected firm texture, which maintains many months after harvest
“Colored flesh is a growing trend, but this apple is making its way to the finish line and has enormous visual appeal for consumers and retailers, as well as an undeniable great flavor,” Roper noted of the first apple. “The other is going to be a star once it launches. We don’t see any other premium variety in the market today that looks or tastes the way this does. The bright yellow on deck adds a real pop of vibrant color, but the best part is that this apple can actually handle the rigors of retail, as it has such strong pressures and presence on the deck. All in all, it’s a far better eating apple than the Golden Delicious with a fantastic blend of tropical nutty flavors.”
In addition to Honeybear’s varietal work, the company also announced it will increase its organic apple production. The company said its goal is to fully transition approximately 25 percent of current growing acreage to organic production within the next three years with the help of growing partners. New organic production zones will include orchards in Washington, New York, Nova Scotia, and Chile.
“Every Honeybear variety is grown with a great deal of care organic or otherwise,” said Roper. “We’re already dedicated to sustainable growing, protection of natural habitats for orchard wildlife, as well as best-in-class environmental stewardship of the land, but there’s a growing demand from consumers for organics—so we’re not going to ignore that.”
With 2018 almost in the books, Honeybear Brands looks to have an exciting 2019 in store for us, too. Stay tuned for the latest in the coming months.
CINCINNATI, OH - Consumers are taking bites out of plant-based proteins with zeal these days, with carnivores, omnivores, and vegetarians/vegans all getting in on the popular trend. For its fourth Natural Foods Innovation Summit, in partnership with 84.51°, Kroger is tapping the genius behind growing plant-based protein brand Beyond Meat®, announcing the brand’s Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Honest Tea, Seth Goldman, will participate in the summit’s keynote.
"It's been one year since Kroger launched our Natural Foods Innovation Summit," said Robert Clark, Kroger's Senior Vice President of Merchandising, according to a press release. "The interactive model has proven to be successful, creating a new channel for enterprising small businesses and startups to engage Kroger, America's largest grocery retailer, with innovative ideas and products for our customers."
At this year’s keynote event, Goldman will touch on the importance of sustainability in the food industry and share best practices for operating a mission-driven company. The summit will also consist of the participation of nearly 60 brands. Since the summit’s inception, Kroger has engaged with over 200 different small businesses and counting.
"Kroger has experienced five consecutive years of double-digit growth in the natural and organic foods category," continued Clark. "We know today's customer wants better-for-you products, and Kroger will continue to make natural, organic, and free-from products accessible and affordable through Simple Truth® and supplier partnerships."
Kroger recently announced its top food trend predictions for 2019, predicting a variety of plant-based alternatives and flexible eating styles will continue on the rise across food fads.
How will the growing popularity of plant-based alternatives positively impact the pillar of grocery—fresh fruit and veg? AndNowUKnow will continue to report on the freshest grocery news.