SACRAMENTO, CA - Avocados seem to have not just consumers, but providers, growers, and buyers on the lookout!
At least that was how it looked on our leaderboard as members of the produce industry read and raced for $100 cash to prove their knowledge of the avocaDOs and DON'Ts.
Proving an insider's knowledge of the popular fruit, Sobeys Numair Baig, National Produce Procurement Manager, was the first not just on the buy-side, but overall scorer for $100 cash. Not only does Baig wear the crown for top points, but also quickest time.
Our supply-side award, and second $100 cash prize goes to SFL Companies Senior Consultant/Broker Chad Schadler.
Both proved themselves worthy amongst numerous sides of the industry, and you can see the closeness of the race by the leaderboard below:
If you missed your shot to prove you're avodao savvy, fear not! You can quiz yourself and compare your scores with our winners by following the green link below. While you won't be eligable to win this round, you can keep an eye out by ensuring you are subscribed to our newsletter here.
To compete in Quiz Quix events to come, just sign in either via email or one of several social media accounts, and you’ll be all ready to jump into the competition for $100 cash!
Quiz Quix is our way of encouraging some healthy, fun, informative competition within the industry. Signing in will give us a token to verify you and allows us to put your name in the ranking. It doesn't give us access to more than your name and email address. Participants must have a valid email address registered in their individual name in order to play.
HOUSTON, TX - Church Brothers Farms, McCain Foodservice, Tanimura & Antle, and Love Beets are just a few companies celebrating their praises being sung by the leading global foodservice distribution company Sysco. At the Sysco’s Supplier Excellence Awards event, these companies and more received key supplier awards.
“Sysco has a long-standing tradition of recognizing our top suppliers for their commitment to helping us deliver great products to our customers with exceptional service,” said Senior Vice President of Merchandising Brian Todd in a recent press release. “We keep the customer at the center of everything we do and work hard to improve the overall customer experience.”
Recipients of the award are selected based on sales growth, operational excellence, and other key business performance metrics as explained by the company’s corporate Merchandising, Quality Assurance, and Supply Chain departments. This year’s award program highlighted commitment, support, and partnership of suppliers who best showcased Sysco’s vision.
Sovena USA was seeing gold after it won the Supply Chain Partner Award. The company was recognized because of its dedication to the improvement of end-to-end supply chain operations. Some of these improvements were made in inbound purchase order fill rates, market freight rates, pick-up allowances and availability, and overall support and participation in Sysco’s supply chain.
As we reported recently, Church Brothers Farms walked away with the 2017 Sysco Gold Produce Supplier Award.
“We are honored by Sysco’s recognition,” Jeff Church, Vice President of Sales for Church Brothers, said of the award. “They are an important customer and this was a team effort earned by Church Brothers Farms and True Leaf Farms.”
McCain Foodservice took home Supplier of the Year for having the highest level of performance across the board, as the company excelled in sales growth, profitability, and overall support of Sysco and customers.
Love Beets won the Cutting Edge Solution Award. The company was rewarded for its efforts to differentiate product solution for Sysco customers in unique and exclusive ways.
Waypoint walked away from the ceremony with the Broker of the Year for its high-level performance in areas of case growth. The company’s Sysco-dedicated team showed its overall support of Sysco operating companies.
For more key companies recognized, including Tanimura & Antle, Mann Packing, and more, click here for the full winner list. For more news on excellence in the produce world, keep checking back with AndNowUKnow.
PHOENIX, AZ - Sprouts Farmers Market is adding a new well of strategic insights in its new appointee to its Board of Directors. The retailer has picked up Joseph (Joe) O’Leary from a wealth of high-growth retail experience to its Board of Directors.
“Sprouts has become a leader in its industry by making healthy living easy and affordable,” said O’Leary. “This is an exciting time to join Sprouts, and I am thrilled to work with the board and management team to help lead the company on the journey ahead.”
O’Leary has had strong experience serving on Boards of retail chains that track toward fast growth movements, currently serving on the Board of Francesca’s Holding Corp., a growing specialty retailer which operates chain of boutiques, and PetSmart, Inc., one of the largest specialty pet retailers.
Prior to working under a more advisory role with the company, O’Leary previously served as PetSmart’s President and Chief Operating Officer, as well as Executive Vice President of Merchandising, Marketing, Supply Chain, and Strategic Planning. Before joining PetSmart, O’Leary served as Chief Operating Officer of Human Touch, LLC, and Senior Vice President, Supply Chain Strategy, and Global Logistics of Gap Inc.
“We are excited to welcome a seasoned executive like Joe O’Leary to our board,” said Amin Maredia, Sprouts’ Chief Executive Officer and a Director. “Joe’s strategic acumen and deep merchandising and supply chain experience with successful growth-oriented retailers will be a great asset to our company and our board.”
As Sprouts continues to prepare itself to fulfill its high-growth store plans, including recruiting new and experienced leadership, AndNowUKnow will continue to bring you the latest
RIO RICO, AZ – MAS Melons & Grapes is putting its stamp on a seasonal staple, and highlighting one of the company’s most popular autumn offerings with a new video entitled Squash Done Right.
“Doing squash right means getting every squash to 45 degrees quickly, before they’re even packed,” explains the video’s narrator over field shots of farmworkers harvesting squash and rapidly delivering them to the Orqui Group Squash Packaging Facility in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. “That’s why the trip from field to 45 is so short.”
Next, squash are fed into a cleaning solution and cooled on the way to sorting.
“As squash pour in from the harvest, they’re cleansed in a chlorine water solution—while chillin’ on the lazy river,” the narrator notes. “The long, cold ride ensures their core temperature is precooled to perfection.”
After sorting to ensure the best possible product, the squash is then packed and palletized.
“A few minutes [after sorting],” the narrator explains, “they’re packed in Xtend® breathable packaging, to extend shelf-life, quality, and flavor, and palletized in the cooler.”
The video concludes punningly, “it’s one of the many reasons MAS means more; expect more, expect MAS.”
For more on MAS Melons & Grapes' squash harvesting, cooling, and shipping process, watch the video above.
MONROVIA, CA - It’s the most wonderful time of the year… While the song wasn’t intended for pumpkin spice season, the times sure are a’changin’. Autumn has become synonymous with pumpkin spice. Obsession with the rich flavor has become such an intricate part of fall that it seems to be taking over every marketplace—particularly Trader Joe’s.
The stores have become inundated with pumpkin just-about-anything to satiate throngs of customers’ demanding the seasonal necessity. Some consumers are not as excited with the seemingly endless supplies of pumpkin-flavored items surrounding them at every corner in grocery stores, but the general consensus is the more the merrier for this holiday treat!
Huffington Post reported that, “Store locations are now stuffed with pumpkin bagels and pumpkin spice coffee, pumpkin butternut squash bisque, pumpkin tortilla chips and pumpkin-shaped pasta,” and likened Trader Joe’s consumer following for a pumpkin take-over to Bubba’s desires for all things shrimp in Forrest Gump.
While this might seem like harsh criticism for pumpkin enthusiast consumers, the same article expands on other options, such as pumpkin spice scone mix, pumpkin soup crackers, and pumpkin spice caramel corn. If that isn’t enough pumpkin for consumers, they can even get their hands on pumpkin spiced pumpkin seeds.
As of this year's Halloween, the company offers 132 “Fearless Flyer” options, 31 “Dig In” options, and 17 “Recipe” options on its website, for a grand total of 180 pumpkins options for customers. There is a pumpkin option for everyone, as the company caters to holiday happenings and consumer demands.
The ever-loyal T.J. fans of the world have been loud and proud about their excitement and approval of the pumpkin products roll out.
Some of the customers couldn’t even handle the excitement once their favorite fall treats were finally within grasp again, as can be seen on the Twitter-verse.
One thing is for sure: Trader Joe’s has this pumpkin thing down to a science and knows how to make its customers’ hearts happy and stomachs full with such an expansive array of the fan-favorite.
For more fresh produce news, keep checking back with us at AndNowUKnow!
WASHINGTON, DC - Rather than concerning herself with what’s in your wallet, actress, philanthropist, and now-organic entrepreneur Jennifer Garner is looking to influence what consumers have in her kitchen. Having teamed up with former President of organic food company Annie's John Foraker, as well as organic entrepreneurs Cassandra Curtis and Ari Raz, the star has co-founded the organic food company Once Upon a Farm.
And you will be able to hear from her at The Organic Center's 15th Annual Benefit Dinner on March 8 in Anaheim, California.
"I'm thrilled and honored that I'll be a part of this incredible evening," said Garner on speaking at the gala. "As a mom with three kids, I know how important it is to feed our children the most nutritious foods grown in the most sustainable ways. I am passionate about organic, about childhood nutrition and about leaving our planet a healthier place. I'm honored to help celebrate and bring attention to the important work of The Organic Center."
In addition to her diverse career in both movies and television over the past five years, Garner has been serving as the Artist Ambassador for Save the Children's U.S. program. The company noted in a press release that it currently offers a line of cold-pressed organic baby food and applesauce, with plans to expand to more categories.
"The Organic Center's fundraiser is always an inspiring and very special evening, and Jennifer's participation will help promote the research and consumer education on organic being done by The Center," said Todd Linsky, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for The Center. "The Organic Center's work empowers farmers and consumers to make well-educated decisions based on sound research, but it doesn't happen without the support of many. Our sincere thanks to Jennifer for joining us in this effort."
According to the release, last year's gala—the single biggest fundraising event for The Organic Center—drew more than 500 organic stakeholders, and raised over $400,000 to help advance the projects of the non-profit research and education organization.
With Chef Matthew Raiford, sixth-generation organic farmer and Executive Chef and Owner of The Farmer and The Larder and Strong Roots Provisions, returning to create an all-organic dinner, the event was noted as one of the largest business networking dinners at the Natural Products Expo West trade show.
Event sponsors include New Hope Network, Frontier Co-op, UNFI, KeHE, Once Upon a Farm, Organic Valley, Whole Foods Market, Josie's Organics and Braga Fresh Family Farms, Gallant, and Naturepedic.
The theme of "Bringing Science to Life," continues to focus on The Organic Center’s emphasis on relevant and exciting projects, including recently published, groundbreaking research conducted in collaboration with Northeastern University, which compared over 1,000 soil samples nationwide.
Amongst findings showing soils from organic farms sequester more carbon than soils on conventional farms, as well as other key projects underway with researchers at Emory University find out more when you attend the annual gala in March.
To see sponsorship opportunities and showcase commitment to The Organic Center's efforts to verify the science-supported benefits of organic food and farming, click here or contact Amy Bovaird, Development Director.
SALINAS, CA - If you’ve been lucky enough to check out Church Brothers Farms’ full foodservice product spread, then you already know this new honor from Sysco is more than deserved. At this year’s Sysco Corporation’s Supplier Recognition Event on October 24 in Houston, the foodservice giant selected Church Brothers as the recipient of its 2017 Sysco Gold Produce Supplier Award.
“We are honored by Sysco’s recognition,” said Jeff Church, Vice President of Sales. “They are an important customer, and this was a team effort earned by Church Brothers Farms and True Leaf Farms.”
According to a press release, Sysco’s Gold Award was created to highlight supplier efforts, including factors such as sales, margin, and case growth. The award also factors in more subjective criteria, including sales support and category management engagement.
This is not the first award the Church Brothers Farms team has taken home in the foodservice arena. Church Brothers was the recipient of the Vendor of the Year award from Get Fresh Produce in Chicago, the 2017 Supplier Award for Nationally Branded Produce from Frosty Acre Brands in Alpharetta, GA, and the Taco’riffic Award from Wendy’s, for what the chain said was, “Unwavering dedication and support during the 2016 re-launch of the iconic Wendy’s taco salad.”
Want to see all the products Church Brothers has to offer, including its award-winning foodservice lineup? Check out ChurchBrothers.com.
WEST YORKSHIRE, ENGLAND -New year, new beginnings rings particularly true for the folks over at Asda, as Roger Burnley has been named the President and CEO of Asda, effective January 1st, 2018. His new role was announced by Dave Cheesewright, CEO of Walmart International, the parent company of Asda.
“Roger was purposefully brought back to Asda to partner with Sean ahead of the transition to Roger taking up the position of CEO. He and Sean have worked as a great team, and I’m really confident in Roger’s ability to continue building upon our returning momentum,” said Cheesewright, in a recent press release.
Burnley returned as Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO in October of 2016 at Asda. At that point, he joined Sean Clarke, who had only recently been appointed as President and Chief Executive that July.
This transition has seemingly been in the making for quite some time. When describing Sean Clarke at the time of his 2016 appointment, Cheesewright said he was “one of our most experienced global executives” and Burnley would be “a future CEO.”
Clarke is set to continue his 21-year-long career at the company through the end of the year, and at the bright and shiny start of 2018, when Burnley takes on his new title, Clarke will take time off while continuing to be involved with Walmart.
“Asda is a great business, and we’ve started to realise its potential again. Sean’s focus on serving customers and simplifying the business has established a firm foundation on which we can build. Since I returned to Asda last year, I have been encouraged by the passion and professionalism of our colleagues and look forward to leading this terrific team,” said Burnley.
Just as Cheesewright expresses his eagerness to have Burnley on board in the position, in a recent press release, Clarke expressed he is looking forward to seeing the progress Asda will make under Burnley’s leadership after he leaves his 15-month-long stint.
“Asda is moving in the right direction, but there is still much more for us to do. I am excited to see the momentum continue under Roger’s leadership. Walmart has given me and my family some great opportunities. I am looking forward to taking some time out, but I will always stay connected to the company,” said Clarke.
The two will be working closely together to ensure a smooth transition come January and a happy holiday season for all its customers. So, when you pop the bubbly this New Year's Eve, don't forget to cheers to the newly promoted exec at Asda!
For more fresh produce industry news, stay tuned into AndNowUKnow!
LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE, CA – The Allen Lund Company (ALC) is continuing its efforts to give back to communities across the country and encourage the well-being of those within the company. From Labor Day to Columbus Day, ALC offices nationwide were encouraged to take part in a Race Around ALC Fitbit challenge, encouraging healthy lifestyles while raising funds for disaster relief in Puerto Rico.
"We strive for fun company-wide initiatives that bring together our offices across the country,” noted Jenny Meli, Human Resources Generalist, in a press release. “It is wonderful to work for a company that is willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. This contribution will go a long way in making a difference in the lives of many of the Puerto Rico families."
The Race Around ALC Fitbit challenge’s goal was to “Walk Around ALC”—the 9,500 miles between all the company’s offices; in the end, ALC surpassed the goal, tallying a total of 9,555 miles (or 19,109,304 steps). Because the company reached its goal, $2,500 will be donated to disaster relief efforts in Puerto Rico.
ALC noted that its Fitbit challenge is a reflection of Allen Lund Company's culture in promoting employee's wellbeing and sustaining giving back to communities wherever they can and thanked top walkers including: Matt Christ (Los Angeles), Brodie Donaldson (Denver), Jan Russo (Savannah), Steve Greene (Chicago), and Jason McFarlane (Madison).
AndNowUKnow will continue to report with more on the beneficent side of produce.
MILLEN, GA – The Southeast Produce Council has officially appointed its new Board of Directors Chairman for 2017-2018, and not only is she a board veteran, she’s the council’s second female Chairman ever. Faye Westfall was inducted on September 29, 2017, at the President’s Dinner Dance held at the SEPC’s recent Southern Innovations Organics & Foodservice Expo in Hilton Head, South Carolina.
“Faye is one of the most diligent and hard-working people that we have ever had on this Board,” David Sherrod, President and CEO of the SEPC, said in a recent press release. “I am so excited to have her energy at our helm this year. She has fostered our STEP-UPP program to one that is recognized by top retailers in the country as one of the best educational programs within the produce industry. I know that the SEPC will flourish this year because she will unselfishly give her time and resources to make sure it does! She is a blessing to me and this council.”
Faye Westfall was born and raised in Ruskin, Florida, where she attended East Bay High School. She later attended Nursing School while living in Maryland, during which she also became involved in the transportation business. After three years, she moved back to Florida and immersed herself back into the produce world, working with tomatoes, transportation, brokerage, as well as running production lines. She worked at J C Valenti for about 9 years before it was purchased by The DiMare Company and continued to run the production line, eventually transitioning into sales. Faye is currently the Director of Sales at DiMare Fresh-Tampa and has served on the Southeast Produce Council’s Board of Directors for 7 years.
“The SEPC’s educational STEP-UPP program has been my passion,” Faye said. “I still try to stay in touch with previous classes while concentrating on the current one. Education in the produce community is very important to me, especially trying to blur the lines between the Grower/Shipper and the Retail/Wholesaler. Making communication open and more transparent I feel will only make things profitable for all involved.”
Not looking to retire anytime soon, Faye not only is an active member in the produce world–known as a professional clown who enjoys spreading love and laughter–but also enjoys filling her weekends with her four children, their spouses, five grandchildren, one great-grandson, and her extended church family.
We here at ANUK wish Faye luck in the upcoming year in her new role. For more produce industry news, keep checking back with AndNowUKnow.