LONDON, ENGLAND - Reports have surfaced this weekend claiming that Seattle-based online retail titan Amazon made an unsuccessful bid on upscale U.K. supermarket Waitrose.
Citing unnamed source, the Sunday Times claimed that Amazon’s VP of Special Projects Ajay Kavan met with an unidentified Director of Waitrose parent company John Lewis Partnership.
Parties from both companies, reportedly, had a series of “enormously informal” discussions in November of last year, but John Lewis Partnership Chairman Charlie Mayfield reportedly refused to take negotiations forward.
Mayfield denied the reports that broke late last week, saying: “These times are ripe for speculation, but there has been no approach to the Partnership by Amazon regarding Waitrose and nor would I expect there to be.”
News of the rebuffed offer surfaced just a week after Amazon’s largest U.S. competitor agreed to sell its U.K. banner Asda to Sainsbury. The approximately 350-store strong Waitrose would be a fitting U.K. foothold for Amazon were the e-tailer looking to apply the same approach it took in acquiring Whole Foods in the U.S., mutatis mutandis, to the European market.
For more news on fresh grocery retail, stay tuned to AndNowUKnow.
MADERA, CA - There is probably nothing more beautiful than people coming together to support a worthy cause, and this can be seen industry-wide—almost as if it's in our DNA. It’s a family affair that reaches beyond the nuclear household and into an industry family that is eager to assist in making life better for everyone. This togetherness can be seen in Stellar Distributing’s 24th Annual Capp/Pow Memorial Golf Tournament, which was held on Monday, April 30th, at Madera Country Club in Madera, California.
This year’s event had a spectacular turnout, with 50 to 60 of the distributor’s customers from all corners of the world—Italy, Greece, Canada, Puerto Rico, you name it—showed up in a big way, ultimately donating around $25,000 to The Nancy Hinds Hospice. This honor was deeply felt by those within the industry and families that comprise it.
“I put my heart and soul into this tournament, and the overwhelming support from all the companies all over the world for the past 24 years means so much to me and the community. Thank you is an understatement for all the donations for Hospice we received from all our customers and vendors,” Kurt Cappelluti shares with me.
Some of the attendees included TMK Produce’s John Birch, Regatta Tropicals’ Steve Matych, and many more.
Those who participated in the fundraiser tournament paid $150 per player or $600 per team, which gave them access to a cart, lunch on the course, a golfer’s gift, two drink tickets, range balls, Sunday dinner, and green fees. Proceeds went to The Nancy Hinds Hospice.
The fundraiser’s name is in honor of Kurt’s father, Paul Cappalluti, and Stellar Distributing’s long-time and beloved Office Manager, Judi Powell, and has seen far-reaching and meaningful achievements throughout the years. With next year being the 25th annual tournament, the industry can hop onto the opportunity to support the event to keep the charity a success.
For more information on how to get involved and support this fundraising event, check in with Kurt Cappelluti at [email protected] or Lourdes Cappelluti at [email protected].
How will next year’s event top off this year’s grand success? We can’t wait to find out!
VANCOUVER, BC - In a world where proprietary apple varieties are becoming more and more desired by consumers, Domex Superfresh Growers® Autumn Glory is certainly not getting left behind by the pack. With increased volumes of the flavor-focused apple on the horizon, I spoke with the company’s Director of Business Development, Paul Newstead, about what retailers can expect come next season.
“Autumn Glory is our proprietary apple. This is an exclusive for us,” Paul explains. “It’s made really special because of the flavor—the way it eats.”
Superfresh Growers has been perfecting the growing process for Autumn Glory over the past several seasons, Paul tells me, and looks forward to translating those findings into a better experience for retailers and consumers alike.
“Very soon we’re going to be up to 3 million boxes over the next few years,” he continues. “It’s an apple that we plan on becoming a central part of our sales focus.”
Want to learn more about the company’s plans for Autumn Glory? Watch my full interview with Paul above.
HOUSTON, TX - Foodservice provider Sysco has announced financial results that beat estimates—defying expectation in a challenging market. The company boasted increased sales, gross profit, and case growth.
“We had a solid quarter, driven by strong top-line results that translated into healthy gross profit dollar growth,” said Tom Bené, Sysco’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Despite some ongoing cost challenges, we remain on target to deliver on our current three-year plan.”
Highlights from the company’s third quarter include:
- Sales increased 6.1% to $14.3 billion
- Gross profit increased 5.6% to $2.7 billion; gross margin decreased 9 basis points to 18.65%
- Operating income increased 11.5% to $486 million; adjusted operating income increased 7.1% to $536 million
- Earnings Per Share (EPS) increased $0.19 to $0.63; adjusted EPS increased $0.16 to $0.67
The company also noted that it saw significant tax benefits during the quarter. As a result, earnings per share growth of 43.2% exceeded operating income growth of 11.5%.
For more details from Sysco’s financial report, click here.
AndNowUKnow will continue to report with the latest news in fresh food.
CHINA - They say mimicry is the highest form of flattery, but when it comes to fresh fruit and veg, nothing beats the top-quality flavor associated with the real deal brand labels. This week, Chinese authorities discovered 120 trays of counterfeit kiwifruit claiming to be Zespri-grade at the Zhoungpu Wholesale Fruit Market in the south eastern province of Xiamen.
“The fact that we face issues with others counterfeiting our product highlights the strong brand position Zespri has in China and across the Asia region,” Ben Hughes, Zespri’s General Manager, told me. “So far, counterfeiting hasn’t been a significant issue for Zespri in North America.”
Reportedly, the kiwifruit product trays were attempting to fly under the radar as “Zeopri” products, with the fruit itself and the logo on the boxes bearing something very similar to the original in order to disguise it as Zespri product.
“The recent interception of 120 trays of counterfeit product in the Zhoungpu Wholesale Fruit Market is a great example of [our] partnership [with Chinese government officials] in action and we appreciate the support of China authorities in taking immediate action,” Holly Brown, mainland China General Manager, said according to New Zealand source Stuff.
As one of Zespri’s largest markets, right in line with Japan, Zespri is currently expecting to sell more than 25 million trays, or $500 million worth, of its kiwifruit in China this season alone. That’s a heckuva lot of fruit, and as we all know and love the sweet deliciousness of Zespri kiwifruit, it’s no wonder that someone somewhere wanted to tap into that New Zealand gold.
For more of the latest produce heists, turnovers, and busts, stick with us at AndNowUKnow.
LOS ANGELES, CA - Fresh off the heels of its No Shells packaging refresh, Wonderful Pistachios launched its first-ever marketing campaign for the product. Combined with its new bright green packaging and no-shell nuts, Wonderful Pistachios’ No Shells brand maintains the great taste of pistachios without the fuss. Cheeky and fun, the No Shells campaign—titled Sometimes, Naked Is Better—features classical nude statues covered in various bits of outrageous clothing and then derobes them to show that their original form is better.
“Our No Shells brand has grown 40 percent over the past year to $150 million in retail sales. We are optimistic that the eye-catching new packaging and new dedicated campaign will accelerate the growth in this segment. The displays for these new bags have a small footprint that are great for placement at checkout. And we know 80 percent of shoppers are looking for healthier options at the register,” explained Adam Cooper, Vice President of Marketing.
As noted in a press release, Venus de Milo, one of the most famous works of ancient Greek sculptures, stars in the campaign’s first video. Amusingly, the video follows Venus around the museum as she enjoys some alone time. After working 13-hour days, 6 days a week, she has no time at all for anything but the absolute essentials, and Wonderful Pistachios No Shells offer her that easy-to-eat-snack that keeps her fueled for those grueling work days.
Sometimes, Naked is Better was created by Wonderful Pistachio’s in-house creative team, Wonderful Agency, led by Chief Creative Officer Darren Moran.
“Some people like to undress their Wonderful Pistachios themselves and that’s great,” said Moran. “But if you’re on the go, or a statue that long-ago lost its appendages, having a pistachio that’s already naked is just all-around better. And you don’t have to be an art lover to appreciate that.”
This new creative campaign has a targeted social media strategy that hopes to reach consumers on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube.
“Wonderful Pistachios No Shells are popular among our consumers looking for a little convenience in their snacking and to easily use in recipes to add a little crunch and protein to their meals,” continued Cooper.
Looking for marketing ideas? Keep following AndNowUKnow.
CORAL GABLES, FL - Fresh Del Monte Produce is planting the seed for healthier eating options with its new equity investment in U.S.-based plant-based meal kit provider Purple Carrot.
“This investment builds on our commitment to seize growth opportunities that will further diversify our business, leverage our distribution network and infrastructure, and get healthful, fresh fruit and vegetable offerings in as many channels as possible,” said Mohammad Abu-Ghazaleh, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Fresh Del Monte, according to a press release. “Purple Carrot has tremendous growth momentum in the fast-growing plant-based food segment with a well-known brand and an authentic connection with its customers. We believe there will be significant opportunities for our teams to create increased value through product mix and channel expansion.”
With a focus on the delivery of fresh and pre-portioned ingredients throughout the U.S., Purple Carrot, which offers 100 percent plant-based food and beverages, was launched in 2014 and offers step-by-step guidance for those wanting healthy, plant-based options to mealtime cooking. The meal kit’s following looks to the provider for its emphasis on convenient and healthy options that are better for consumers and the environment.
How will this alignment assist in Fresh Del Monte’s growth, and will we see more companies pair up with plant-based or produce-focused meal kit options? AndNowUKnow will continue to keep you updated with the latest industry happenings.
SALINAS, CA - Employee-owned grower, shipper, and marketer of premium branded produce Tanimura & Antle has announced the appointment of a new leader; Scott Grabau will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer after the recent death of Rick Antle, who tragically passed away on April 14, 2018, after a brief battle with cancer.
“I am saddened by the recent vacancy, but am honored to be entrusted to serve our customers, growers, and both employee and legacy shareholders,” said Grabau. “The recent creation of the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) was a fantastic benefit to memorialize the Company’s commitment to invest in our number one asset, our employees. This culture has been, and will continue to be, the number one factor in our success.”
A 16-year veteran with the company, Grabau previously served as Chief Financial Officer for Tanimura & Antle, led the company’s mergers and acquisitions and their corresponding integrations, and operated as President of several of the company’s other operations. Earlier this year, Rick Antle appointed Grabau as Tanimura & Antle’s President of the company.
“The Board has the utmost confidence in Scott’s abilities. Scott has a proven track record within our operations from seed to customer, and has served as a trusted Executive for many years,” Gary Tanimura stated, in a company press release.
Grabau studied engineering at Cal Poly, obtained a business degree from Sonoma State University, and received his Certified Public Accountant designation in 2000 while working at a national public accounting firm specializing in agriculture.
Tanimura & Antle also announced that Gary Tanimura and Mike Antle, who have served on the Board since its founding 35 years ago, will now serve as Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Board, respectively. Keith Tanimura, who has also served on the board since inception, will continue his service and Brian Antle, President of PlantTape, will join the Board, filling the vacancy of his father.
In addition to the Tanimura and Antle family members, the Board’s three independent Directors—Michael Marcus, William Gisvold, and Sharon Crino—will continue to serve on the Board.
The company noted that the Tanimura and Antle families will continue to remain involved in the strategic management of the company and noted that Grabau’s analytical approach to problem solving, strategy, and innovation will complement Tanimura & Antle’s experienced Board going forward.
CALIFORNIA - With expanding acreage and category offerings, Western Veg is on the move with growth on its mind. In its latest move, the company has expanded operations underway for its conventional strawberry program, as well as welcoming the organic strawberries that were announced late last year. Rick Hearst and Dylan Lym took some time to discuss the latest with me.
"We are currently operating off expanded acreage in Oxnard, Santa Maria, and Watsonville,” Rick shares. “In short, we went from a small acreage strawberry grower in Santa Maria to a large grower in all three regions.”
Dylan tells me it was a natural move in growth for the company, as it was already well-versed in the strawberry category.
“We are now underway with promotable volume year-round in conventional strawberries from some of the best ranches in California,” Dylan tells me. “This is a premium program, and its just the tip of what we have to offer.”
As Oxnard winds down, Watsonville has been a bit slow to start, according to Rick, but with Santa Maria getting ramped up volumes are looking good for Mother’s Day.
“Sizing has been excellent out of Santa Maria and even more so out of Watsonville. We should have plenty of long stems to keep the moms happy,” Rick assures.
Beyond the coming holiday, the company looks forward to keeping up with year-round production when Mexico kicks in later this year when California is slowing down. Rotating through all the major growing regions across North America, Dylan tells me that Western Veg distributes upwards of 10 million boxes throughout the year.
“Basically, there’s not a single day throughout the year we wouldn't have strawberries available for our customers,” he concludes.
With more than 150 years of combined experience in the industry, and an ever-increasing focus on technology and innovations to help solve industry problems, there is a lot to watch from this company as we make our way through 2018. Stay tuned for all the latest with AndNowUKnow.
HAMILTON, NJ - Justin Timberlake is having a great month—first, ‘NSYNC received its Star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, and now, the crooner from my teenage dreams is saying "Hi, Hi, Hi," to a new advertisement, endorsing his love of what the ex-Mickey Mouse Club member dubs the braspberry. He stars in an advertisement for Bai’s beverages.
In the 30-second spotlight for Bai’s drinks, actor and comedian Brian Husky plays a news correspondent releasing breaking news that is "just in": Bai carries 5 calories and uses no artificial sweeteners. While the "just in" news is what you think the main event of the advertisement will be, the camera shifts to another Justin, who has already professed his love of a certain raspberry-and-blueberry combination—that is, pop singing icon, Justin Timberlake.
Husky mocks Justin’s affinity for deep hued blueberries tucked within the vibrant and flavorful raspberries, but—ever the wise guy—Justin corrects him, saying, "Braspberry. It’s called a braspberry" and shining a light on the produce must-haves.
After our favorite jokester offers to feed news-anchoring Husky, the camera cuts to a shot of Bai’s drinks. In an almost serenading tone, Justin voices, "Bai. Five calories. No artificial sweeteners. And tastes amazing," in an almost 007-smooth way that boasts both smarts and style.
The carefully crafted advertisement is not all fun and games, though. The pop star is an investor and Chief Flavor Officer for Bai, according to People. In a behind the scenes look at JT’s role in the clip, he explains what he loves about the commercial and the brand.
"I can’t think of a Bai flavor I don’t like, and that’s why I’m here," he jokingly shares, after divulging that the majority of Bai commercials, including one with Christopher Walken, are pretty random. "The Pineapple Coconut—that’s a new mix, yup, get on my level. I call it Get on My Level. I have a different names for all the drinks, like Khaled has different names for all his sneakers, I have a different name for all the drinks."
How will Justin Timberlake’s focus on fruit and various ways to consume it impact the industry and demand for fresh produce? AndNowUKnow will keep you updated with the latest news.