VIDALIA, GA – Giro Pack, Inc. introduces new box filling machine and high-speed dynamic weigher to further streamline and automate packinghouse bagging operations. The new Exact-100 offers more bags per minute, increased accuracy, and the ability to feed 3 baggers simultaneously with the same footprint as most layouts with only 2 baggers.
The GBF-100 automates the last step in the packaging line (the filling of boxes with net bags); resulting in improved efficiency and ultimately a savings in labor costs. This new machine is also extremely versatile and can accommodate an array of pack styles and weights, across a variety of different commodities.
Stop by Booth #1259 in New Orleans to see the GBF-100 first-hand and watch the Exact-100 video running full production at Fowler Packing.
EXACT-100
- Capacity: Up to 400lbs (200kg) of fruit per minute
- Output: Up to 90 bags/min (depending on bag size and commodity)
- Versatility: Ability to run 3 baggers simultaneously
- Accuracy: 5 grams per dump more accurate than Giro’s previous weigher; Saving up to $0.07 per 5# bag
- Labor Savings: Overall labor reduction up to 30%
- Footprint: Up to 50% more output with a smaller footprint than Giro’s previous line
GBF-100
- Output: Up to 90 boxes/min (depending on bag size and commodity)
- Labor Savings: Up to 2-4 people; Overall labor reduction up to 30%
- Box Composition: Plastic and/or carton
- Box Sizes: 600x400
- Featured Benefits: Vibrating/compacting device to ensure the proper positioning of the bags inside the box
- Optional Feature: Rejection system for over/underweight boxes
- Optional Feature: 1 or 2-layer feeding
Video:
For additional details on the GBF-100 or EXACT-100, please contact [email protected].
If you would like more information regarding this topic, please contact Jennifer Doxey, at 559.474.5694 or [email protected].
NEW ORLEANS, LA - As produce purveyors and makers descended upon the tempting backdrop of the New Orleans experience, it doesn’t suffice it to say that the 2017 PMA Fresh Summit was a hit. Strong retail presence spanning multiple markets nationally and internationally, over a thousand exhibitors, and more than 19,500 in attendance are just some of the markers of the powerful presence the event provided.
“We are thrilled that our industry continues to see Fresh Summit as such an important gathering place for the fresh produce and floral communities,” Cathy Burns shared with me as we discussed the last few days. “Thanks to the scores of volunteer leaders and exhibitors, speakers, sponsors, and members who worked so hard to make this a place of connections—to people, ideas, products, services, and more.”
In addition to strong numbers in retail (off-hand I recall bumping into team members from Sprouts Farmers Market, Schnucks, Loblaw, Longo’s, and Sam’s Club among several others) global participation was exceptional according to the PMA team.
The other big factor to tie into a hit show is, naturally, the products. The industry certainly turned out its best and brightest.
“Creativity and innovation are two words that come to mind when I look at this year’s Fresh Summit,” Cathy reflected. “Certainly we see this at the expo, where I’m so impressed with the products and services our exhibitors have on display. And I see it in the keynote presentations and workshop speakers who share their insights with the rest of us. It’s great to see everyone snapping pictures of the slides and swarming the speakers at the end of the workshop to get additional ideas.”
Amongst the 1,000+ exhibitors, five companies in particular took home honors for Best Overall Product Promo and Best Packaging Promo, as well as Best of Show.
- Best of Show: Zespri Kiwi Fruit
- Best First-Time Exhibitor: Obrigado
- Best of Show: Ripe
- Best Overall Product Promo: Southern Specialties
- Best Packaging Promo: Mucci Farms
Upon hearing the news of the team’s victory, Zespri’s Marketing Manager, Sarah Deaton, tells me, “We are so excited to receive this award. So much effort and planning went into our PMA booth. Our brand was represented through our team spirit, colorful booth graphics, and engaging staff that helped make the show a success!“
Congratulations to Southern Specialties, which was presented Fresh Summit’s Best Overall Product Promo award. Judged by anonymous retail panel, the PMA desired the purpose for the award was to encourage marketing innovation.
“I was very excited to be a judge, and to see the latest our industry has to offer,” said Walmart Stores, Inc. Senior Director of Global Sourcing Ron McCormick in a press release. The contest entries, he noted, demonstrate that “product packaging helps sell products, and is critical to our industry’s success."
The new Best Packaging Promo award, designed to encourage packaging innovation by recognizing pioneering ways that packaging is being used to market fresh produce and floral, was awarded to Mucci Farms for its Veggies to Go™ on-the-go snacks for kids. The product features new easy-snap packaging, and also brought home the Kids Choice Award for Sensory Experience Contest.
"PMA Fresh Summit 2017 was a 'WIN WIN' all around for our entire team. Between our award for Best Packaging Promo for Mucci’s Veggies to Go and the incredible insights and opportunities for building and growing relationships, PMA offered the perfect platforms to showcase our latest innovations while continually learning both professionally as well as personally," Mucci’s Marketing Manager Emily Murracas tells me. "There are a lot of moving parts to creating and executing a successful product and everyone on our team had a hand in creating our award-winning line. To be recognized for that hard work is incredibly rewarding. We were grateful for the resources offered, and in particular, the line-up of speakers this year was both inspirational and extremely empowering."
Looking forward, PMA incoming Chair Jin Ju Wilder of LA & SF Specialty announced on Saturday that bringing together the global produce and floral community to “grow a healthier world” is the new vision for the Association and the Center for Growing Talent by PMA.
“There is a lot in the new vision, and it resonates with me because it’s inspirational and aspirational,” Wilder said in a separate release. “It’s clear and compelling. What’s different is how that vision will shape how we deliver on our missions.”
Additionally, she noted that PMA will continue to connect, inform, and deliver industry solutions to enhance PMA members’ prosperity while the Center will continue its focus on attracting, developing, and retaining talent.
I know better to doubt that next year could top this one, however difficult that might seem. So instead I will say that I cannot wait to see how the team does it for 2018!
While we may no longer be in NOLA, we still have more to come from the floor, so stay tuned to AndNowUKnow for more exciting coverage of the 2017 Fresh Summit.
LAKE OSWEGO, OR - Those who are seeking advising on how to get a grip on their business, fear not. It can be scary to get our hands dirty to make things right, but with a little guidance from Giant Results™’s Matt Curry, who was the former owner of Curry & Company, the clean-up can be much easier. The wisdom and expertise Curry gathered while working within the produce industry for 22 years will be a great asset as he begins his new venture.
“Right now it’s pivotal for produce companies to have an absolute grip on their companies. EOS® (The Entrepreneurial Operating System ®) is the proven process to getting what you want out of your business. If you want a simple system for solving -- people, lack of control, lack of profit, team maxed out and nothing working issues, you better get started now,” advised Curry in a recent press release.
Curry started his new company, Giant Results, to help entrepreneurial spirits find their way in the business world. He said that it is more important than ever to get a grip on our business acumen before it gets out of hand.
The difference between EOS® and other systems is its approach. With a more holistic-style and self-sustaining focus, it arguably helps entrepreneurs get the most out of their business and to ultimately cultivate the successful company they desire. But the proof is in the pudding, as can be seen in the fact that over 25,000 full-day trainings to more than 4,000 companies have benefited from this specifically designed approach.
The program builds the ability to create a clear and succinct vision for companies, traction with strong leadership that will propel companies towards higher successes, and a healthy leadership group that is supportive of and prepared for the growth to come.
While it has proven to be a real-world resolver for issues for businesses, EOS® is also explored in the book Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business.
“EOS® is the system that enables legacy transitions to be executed,” said Curry. “Many times family businesses have a plan but don’t execute that plan because they don’t have the simple processes in place. This makes the accountability happen.”
Giant Results™ is headquartered in Lake Oswego, OR, and you can also visit his website for more information on his targeted approach to fixing the entrepreneurial mindset: www.giant-results.com.
SALINAS, CA - For foodservice customers seeking a salad fix, Markon Cooperative has announced a recent expansion to its produce packed lined up. According to a press release, the company has two new offerings coming to customers: Ready-Set-Serve® (RSS) Aromatic Herbs & Tender Greens and RSS Organic Lemony Arugula.
“The demand for exciting ingredients with bright flavor, varied texture, vibrant color, and organic options is becoming a must, especially with the increasingly influential Millennial demographic,” said Chris Casson, Director of Produce and Specialty Foods for Shamrock Foods Company, in a recent press release. “The new Ready-Set-Serve salad combinations save time without sacrificing quality or taste, and allow chefs to spend their time creating the delicious, healthy food options that today’s consumers want.”
What makes these options so convenient is the ready-to-eat set-up, but what makes them so great is their nutrient-dense blends, making eating healthy both a delight and delightfully easy to do without losing the variety we all crave.
A product of Markon’s member chefs during the 2016 Chef Summit , the RSS Aromatic Herbs & Tender Greens is available to foodservice operators through Markon member distributors exclusively. Members include Ben E. Keith Foods, Gordon Food Service, Gordon Food Service Canada, Maines Paper & Food Service, Nicholas & Company, Reinhart Foodservice, and Shamrock Foods Company.
The RSS Aromatic Herbs & Tender Greans is colorful in taste and texture, with a combination of red chard, wild arugula, green oak, frisee, parsley, dill, and cilantro. While eating this salad might work perfectly for on-the-go consumers, it is also just as good for dinner when sauteed or in a stir-fried mixture.
The second new addition to Markon’s products is the RSS Organic Lemony Arugula, which paints the palette with the earthy arugula and bright lemony sorrel leaves. This zesty blend is a healthy option for lunches, or it pairs well with omelettes, burgers, and more. It’s easy to fix up straight out of the bag, making this option a easy choice for consumers.
Citing a Technomic report, Markon said consumer concern for healthy options has soared in recent years. This, Markon said, has made uniquely blended salads increase in popularity as a tasty version tried-and-true staple in healthy-choice living.
“Whether you’re using the RSS Aromatic Herbs & Tender Greens as a base for an entree grilled chicken salad with goat cheese, radishes and cherry tomatoes or simply topping eggs benedict with fresh RSS Organic Lemony Arugula, these ready-to-serve product offerings easily enhance taste and add flavor,” said Paul Young, Reinhart Foodservice Corporate Executive Chef, in the same release.
The two new options are backed by Markon’s 5-Star Food Safety® program, which tracks products at five key points throughout production: fields, facilities, transportation, distributor warehouses, and operators’ kitchen. This creates a trust in the company’s traceability back to the field.
Both salad blends are available now.
LEVERKUSEN, GERMANY - Fresh on the market, Bayer’s Vegetable Seed Division revealed a new watermelon concept at PMA Fresh Summit this weekend. Alongside some of the company’s other vegetable crops and seed varieties, the “Emerald Type,” which is a dark green watermelon variety and still new to the market, has been building its reputation.
“The Emerald Type may be new to some in the industry, but varieties in the product line have been successful over the last few years,” said Kike Rossell, Bayer Regional Watermelon Product Specialist, in a recent press release. “The Emerald Type varieties have been grown commercially throughout the North and Central America watermelon production regions over the last 3-4 years. They have proven to be consistent varieties from an agronomic standpoint while also providing high brix, excellent flavour, and a firm, crisp texture.”
The reason this specific watermelon variety does well commercially is believed by growers and shippers to be the dark green rind. The richness of the color makes it stand out.
“I’ve had customers request them,” said Greg Leger of Leger & Sons, in the same release.
With 60, 45, and 36 count offerings and a deep red and firm flesh, the emerald variety is attractive to both fresh and processing markets. The appeal is is evident, as the watermelon has been in production for the last few seasons.
“After the success we’ve seen the last few years, we knew it was time to promote the Emerald Type in a big way to the industry,” continued Rossell, “We are excited about the potential of the varieties for our customers.”
For more information on their products and the exciting developments with The Emerald Type, check back with us at AndNowUKnow.
MIAMI, FL – Van Berkel International, the Italian brand known for its elegant line of food slicers, knife sets, and cutting accessories, is proud to announce its recent acquisition of OMAS SpA, the food industry’s leading manufacturer of professional machinery. This acquisition positions Berkel as one of the most prestigious companies worldwide in the production of high-quality slicers and food processing equipment.
“The business moves we’ve made this year are a strong indication of how enthusiastic and passionate we are about the company,” says Alberto Gonzalez, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “Our recent U.S expansion paired with the acquisition of a brand as well-respected as OMAS, makes me confident in our position to grow Van Berkel’s presence worldwide.”
While Berkel offers customers top end food slicers and processing equipment for both professional and domestic use, Omas specializes in professional machinery for customers at an industrial level. The company offers restaurants, grocery stores, and industry professionals a variety of models to choose from that will best fit their needs.
“The purpose of the acquisition is to leverage the scope of both brands to consolidate Van Berkel International's leadership in the high-end slicer segment,” explains Giuliano Reas, President of Van Berkel International S.r.L. “Berkel is recognized throughout the world for making slicers a symbol of excellence and tradition in history. OMAS founded its brand based on the same principles and has affirmed itself over the years due to the high quality of its machines and the deep penetration in foreign markets.”
The current business plan envisions an expansion of the product offerings and penetration of new markets. After last year’s expansion in the United States, Berkel wishes to continue growing in the U.S market as well as in India, where the company invested in a new and improved production site that, in the last two years, has increased the production volume of over 10,000 units/year. This equals to about half of Berkel’s total production, with the rest being manufactured in the Italian plants.
OMAS will be showcasing their food machinery at the HOST Milano’s 40th International Hospitality Exhibition from October 20-24th. Attendees will be able to see first-hand several of their models and experience what the company has to offer industry professionals at the trade show.
For more information about OMAS and their industrial slicers, please visit http://www.omas1949.com/en/ and learn more about Berkel at https://www.theberkelworld.com/us/.
SEATTLE, WA – As Amazon inches closer to its decision for its second North America headquarters, dozens of cities and states are looking to woo Amazon with as much as $7 billion in tax breaks to get HQ2 built on their turf.
Announced earlier this year, Amazon HQ2 is expected to be a $5 billion-plus investment and will provide up to 50,000 jobs, and states like New Jersey, New York, and California are pulling out all the works to ensure HQ2 calls their state home.
According to Reuters, a news release from the New Jersey governor’s office revealed a proposal of $7 billion in potential credits against state and city taxes if Amazon locates in Newark and sticks to hiring commitments. Not to be upstaged, New York City made a proposal without incentives special for Amazon, though the state is expected to offer some, a spokesperson for the city’s economic development corporation said on Wednesday. While California’s governor chose a more personal route, offering $300 million in incentives over several years plus other benefits in a letter to Amazon’s Chief Executive Jeff Bezos, published online by the Orange County Register.
However, one southern city might just house the key to winning the HQ2 race. Austin’s chamber of commerce said in a Twitter post on Wednesday that it submitted its bid for HQ2, and it may just be the winner. Credit ratings and research company Moody’s has ranked Austin as the most likely to win based on its labor pool, costs of doing business and quality of life, among other criteria. Austin is also the headquarters of Whole Foods Market, which Amazon recently acquired earlier this year.
Will Amazon choose Austin, the headquarters of newly acquired Whole Foods, or will another city nab the spot for HQ2? With the release of the announcement expected next year, AndNowUKnow will continue to report.
RIVERHEAD, NY - Georgia has a new resident moving in at the end of this month, and it is Hapco Farms’ broccoli. Registered under the name Fresh from the Start, Hapco’s broccoli is making a big transition from neighboring states.
“Our broccoli season now seamlessly transitions from Maine, New York, Florida and Georgia, providing our East Coast customers continuous supply of Fresh from the Start broccoli,” said Eric Scannelli, SVP of Hapco Farms.
Much like other programs, the growth process is closely managed, as Hapco Farms watches its products go through seed, harvest, packing, shipping, and sales stages. Hapco’s monitoring and managing of its product is an effort to show its commitment and to procure customer trust in its quality.
“With this expanded acreage, we are happy to continue our broccoli program way into the Spring,” said Scannelli.
For more information on this big move into the Georgia neighborhood, visit Hapco's website at www.hapcofarms.com.
VANCOUVER, CA - These fall breezes have rolled in with the thoughts of apples closely trailing behind them. Oppy’s branded varieties like JAZZ™, Envy™, and Pacific Rose™ are appetizing to new apple shoppers because of their vibrant colors and flavorful crunch. Production of the JAZZ is going well in Washington this season.
“Fresh off the trees in Eastern Washington, this year’s JAZZ crop is a beauty,” said Joe Barsi, President of T&G North America, according to a press release.
The company stated in the release that JAZZ, a tangy and sweet apple with a uniquely crunchy texture, has hit top three in sales performance in the premium apple category.
“While JAZZ is well-established at retail, it continues to create excitement thanks to a faithful following, as well as new fans we’re winning with integrated consumer and trade marketing initiatives,” said Barsi. “JAZZ began shipping in early October, following a brief respite between the New Zealand and Washington seasons, and customers were eager to restock as the first fruit came off the trees.”
The JAZZ variety is set to showcase among the refreshed brand after debuting in New Zealand earlier in 2017. While the apples are coming back this fall, they are popping up a bit smaller in size. Like many apples hailing from Washington, JAZZ will join the likes of Envy, which is set to be promoted in a Texas retail roadshow next month, in petite and portable structure.
With larger supplies, the market for U.S. apples has grown 1.3 percent in volume and 2.1 percent in sales since the middle of 2016. This $4.2 billion dollar category is not slowed by higher prices on apples because the taste seems to deliver consumer satisfaction, according to David Nelley, Vice President, Categories for Oppy.
“Sales of premium apples are up 48 percent since 2013,” said Nelley. “That’s the segment of the apple market Oppy specializes in and has been known for, for years. JAZZ, Envy, and Pacific Rose deserve credit for rejuvenating the category. We’re welcoming the U.S.-grown ENZA varieties knowing that we’re progressing positive category results.”
JAZZ is not the only success story Oppy is enjoying. Envy, due to be harvested alongside Pacific Rose in the third week of October, is sitting high at fifth place in premium apple sales.
“Envy sales increased over 60 percent during the New Zealand season,” Nelley said. “Our most significant growth has been in California and the U.S. Southeast, though other regions are not far behind. Meanwhile, Pacific Rose continues to carve out a niche with consumers who like a sweet alternative to a Fuji.”
The organically grown JAZZ, Pacific Rose, and Envy are offered by Oppy, Rainier Fruit Company, and CMI Orchards when they are in season in Washington.
If you are wanting more information on these organic varieties which are due for harvesting soon, visit Oppy at PMA Fresh Summit at booth #1339.
LEAMINGTON, ON - Efforts are being made in Leamington, ON after the pest pepper weevil (Anthonomus Eugenii) was spotted last fall. Once caught, it is difficult to spot because of its low profile and resistance to sprays; this allows the pest to spread without notice until the pepper plant is essentially dead. However, NatureFresh® is taking a page out of law enforcements’ books by training a canine to catch the perpetrating pest at earlier stages.
“Dogs are a very intelligent animal. Many worker dogs are trained to recognize and discover scents associated with drugs or bombs, so it seemed possible to train a dog to recognize pepper weevil,” said Cam Lyons, Research and Development and IPM Technician.
Insert the heroine of this story: Chili, a trained 15-month-old Belgian Shepherd NatureFarms recently adopted. While the current crops are not carrying the pest, the training of Chili to find pepper weevil at first infestation will enable NatureFarms to catch the pest as soon as possible. She is a precautionary measure for the farm and the first certified dog to detect pests by The American Working Dog Association.
Since NatureFresh does not currently have any pepper weevil, Tina Heide, an IPM scout and Chili’s handler, stashes some of the pest in plastic containers throughout the facility. Chili then locates the hidden container full of the pest and signals an issue by sitting and staring at what she has determined is a problem area. “For Chili, it’s like a game of hide and seek. While she’s out there working, it’s actually a game for her and she’s loving it,” said Tina.
“In order to continue to grow it is essential to develop new strategies and look beyond conventional methods. We encourage our team to think outside the box and test any ideas they may have; no idea is considered too crazy,” said Peter Quiring, Owner and CEO.
Using innovative measures, NatureFresh is going to catch this pest red-handed because, doggonit, we need to stop it before it spreads again.