HOUSTON, TX – Executive Vice President and President of Foodservice Operations Mike Green has announced plans to retire after a 24 year career with the company.
"Mike has been a strong and impactful leader throughout his 24-year career with Sysco, playing an important role in the development of several of our key leaders," said Bill DeLaney, Sysco President and Chief Executive Officer. "We greatly appreciate his many significant contributions to Sysco's success, and we wish him the best upon his retirement."
Green started his career in the foodservice industry in 1981 after which he spent 10 years working in various management roles before taking a position with Sysco Chicago in 1981 as part of Sysco's management development program. By 1992 he was working as the Vice President of Marketing and Merchandising. He worked his way up the chain of command steadily throughout the years, eventually assuming his current position in 2013.
According to a press release, Sysco is still in the process of identifying Green's successor.
Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow for any updates in Sysco's hiring process.
SALINAS, CA – TransFresh Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Chiquita Brands, has significantly modified its flagship technology, Tectrol® Modified Atmosphere Packaging Systems, to deliver more consistent supplies of fresh blueberries.
This marks the successful completion of a multi-year research and development initiative that created a unique Tectrol Storage Solution that uses Apio’s patented BreatheWay® Technology to deliver a sealed package system with adjustable oxygen transfer rates that react to changes in temperature and berry respiration, according to a press release. This will allow for more reliable fresh blueberry storage.
“What’s remarkable about the Tectrol Storage Solution for fresh blueberries is that the innovative zip-sealed pallet system combined with the patented breathable membrane allows just the right amount of oxygen transfer needed by the fruit, resulting in greater atmosphere control than previously possible and a virtually fool-proof packing operation,” stated Rich Macleod, TransFresh Corporation Vice President.
“Customers who may have struggled in the past to meet the specific atmosphere needs of fresh blueberries are now finding they have a new solution available with higher consistency and a more stable atmosphere for greater storage reliability,” he said.
These innovations should give customers more confidence in their storage solutions by being able to more effectively match supplies with market demand. TransFresh hopes to be able to adapt this technology to other commodities like fresh cherries and grapes.
Reilly Rhodes, TransFresh Tectrol Business Manager for fresh blueberries, spearheaded the multi-year development project. When speaking of the ‘A-ha’ moment in the process, he said, “We redesigned our seal system for the fresh blueberry market and then married the redesigned seal and bag with the Apio BreatheWay® technology… at that stage, we were no longer simply adapting a successful program for fresh strawberries to fresh blueberries, we were actually creating a new and highly adaptable solution designed specifically for fresh blueberries.”
Domestic markets have sold 15% more blueberries this year than last and represent a fast growing berry segment, according to a press release. The ability to hold blueberries in a modified or controlled atmosphere conditions helps to alleviate difficulties in market supply and demand.
LOS ALAMITOS, CA – Frieda's Produce was named a trendsetter among the major influencers of American food culture by David Sax in his new book: “The Tastemakers: Why We’re Crazy for Cupcakes But Fed Up with Fondue.”
"Agriculture's tastemakers are arguably the most potent trendsetters in the world," he said.
By naming Frieda's among these trendsetters, Sax recognized the incredible influence that Frieda's has had not just on the produce industry, but the American public as well. Sax specifically recounts how through discussions with Karen Caplan, Frieda’s President and CEO, he learned how Frieda's played a major role in turning the kiwifruit from a specialty item into an every day staple for the American consumer.
According to a press release, Sax has also authored "Save the Deli: In Search of Perfect Pastrami, Crusty Rye, and the Heart of Jewish Delicatessen" and has won a James Beard Award for writing and literature.
Congratulations, Frieda's! I look forward to seeing the company featured in the new book.
BOISE, ID - WinCo is expanding its in-store organics selection with a new all organics aisle in the produce section. According to the company's Facebook page, the new section is so far only being tested in select stores, but plans are in place to expand the program if it meets with success in this preliminary stage.
In response to a comment on its Facebook page a WinCo spokesperson wrote, “We're testing this area on a few stores...but we'll gladly let our Produce team know you want to see it in Oregon - thank you!”
So far the program has met with enthusiastic approval from loyal WinCo shoppers. WinCo highlighted one customer's comment which read: “I just wanted to say thank you for widening your selection of natural and organic products. You have the best prices in town and have saved me a trip to a second store by expanding choices! A special thanks for bringing back organic milk by the gallon, and introducing more organic produce.”
WinCo's actions reflect a growing demand for organic vegetables among American consumers. Earlier this summer for example, ANUK reported on a survey by the Organic Trade Association which found that 'heath' and organic foods are becoming increasingly synonymous for American consumers looking to feed their families. Retailers across the country are having to step up their organics game to keep up with this growing demand, and WinCo is no exception.
To read more about this enlightening survey check out our article on the subject here.
Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow for any updates on WinCo and its partners in the retail industry.
NOGALES, AZ - SunFed has a new Director of Marketing: Brett Burdsal. The former Regional Director of Marketing at CMI has a big vision for SunFed's future. Talking with him, it is obvious how strongly Brett believes in SunFed's product and how excited he is to share that passion with retailers and consumers.
“I view SunFed like a sleeping giant in the industry,” Brett told ANUK. “There's no beating the quality of our product. Our squash, eggplant, peppers and melons; everything we grow here at SunFed can compete with any product on the market. Here we combine our core products with a strong organic program, our passion to foster new varieties and our new fair trade certification. With an innovated, forward thinking company like SunFed, I can focus fully on making a connection with our consumers and retail partners, demonstrating to them exactly why we're who they should lean on for their needs.”
The way Brett envisions SunFed doing this is through a concerted marketing push involving innovative packaging designs, labeling, new varieties and produce displays.
“A product's biggest impact with the consumer is always going to be at the shelf,” Brett explained. “I want to tell the story of our product through our packaging in an innovative, unique way that consumers will be drawn to.”
Brett's skill of communicating with consumers through packaging is a large part of the reason that Mark Cassius, SunFed's Chief Innovation Officer, reached out to him about joining the SunFed team.
“Brett brings a wealth of passion, knowledge and leadership to SunFed as his lighthearted approach resonates with consumers,” Mark shared. “Additionally Brett has built a track record of success providing category solutions to key retailers. We are extremely happy to have Brett join our SunFed team.”
Brett knows all too well that marketing directors can often get overwhelmed by the sheer variety of techniques and outlets available to them in the modern economy, with social media outlets and online marketing campaigns becoming increasingly popular. While he acknowledges the importance of these many techniques, Brett understands that the fundamental relationship between grower and buyer is built in the retail aisle not on Facebook.
“Good packaging does more than keep the product fresh,” he reminds ANUK. “It also keeps your brand, your story, fresh and relevant.
With this perspective in mind, it certainly looks like SunFed has found a great asset in Brett.
Congratulations on the new position Brett!
WENATCHEE, WA – Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers has launched its 2014 pear season, and it is excited about this year's crop. Oneonta Marketing Director Scott Marboe talked about his company's Bartlett pears in particular, which he described as a big, clean crop with mostly 90s and larger in terms of size.
“We are very excited to officially kick off the new season with 'Diamond Starr Growers' Bartlett pears,” Marboe said. “This is a clean and well-sized crop, one we know is going to bring great results to the category.”
He added that “There's not much in the way of small fruit, but a very strong market for cannery will keep a stable price floor.”
Bartletts are not the only variety Oneonta has in store for retailers this season either.
“Red Anjous and Starkrimson are really looking good this season,” Marboe said. “There is excellent color at this time of year, and we should start on the Starkrimsons about Aug. 11, then sail right along with the other varieties in a timely manner.”
According to a press release, Oneonta also grows, ships, and markets Bosc, Forelle, Comice, Seckel, Asian and Red Sensation pears under its Diamond Starr Growers label.
Bartletts, Starkrimsons and Red Sensations will be available to retailers through December, with Seckels, Comice and Asians shipping during winter, and Red and Green Anjous shipping from late summer or early fall into the following summer.
Oneonta is committed to assisting its retail partners in any way it can, providing high-graphic POS for its “snaQ” programs for its pears and apples. This program targets younger children with illustrations sharing information on varieties, health tips and eating suggestions in a kid-friendly way.
According to a press release, Oneonta prides itself both on the quality of its fruit as well as a commitment to food safety standards. It has implemented GAP standards into its growing, harvesting, warehousing, packing, storage and shipping operations, all part of an effort to keep customer safety a top priority.
Check out Oneonta's feature video on its pear harvest below:
Diamond Starr Growers Pears from Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers on Vimeo.
Congratulations on a great looking crop Oneonta!
PELION, SC – WP Rawl has hired Jim Zurbey as its new Director of Plant Operations.
“Along with this being a great opportunity in something I enjoy doing, one of the things that drew me to WP Rawl is its culture,” said Zurbey. “I really enjoy the family atmosphere they offer their employees.”
In his new position, Zurbey will oversee all aspects of plant operations, including organizing, directing and controlling the processing functions of the business, according to a press release. He will also oversee the performance of all departments like packing, warehouse management, order services, production, as well as shipping and receiving.
“We are fortunate to have Jim as part of our team,” said Ashley Rawl, Vice President of Marketing and Product Development for WP Rawl. “The skills he brings from past experiences in the produce industry are a great asset in helping us provide our customers with the quality we strive for every day.”
Zurbey started his career at Beckman Produce before serving as Production and Quality Assurance Manager for Bella Fresh. He has also worked for River Ranch and Fresh Point before making a move to Taylor Farms. While there, he held various positions and eventually became Director of Operations at Taylor.
Congratulations on the new job, Jim!
KINGSVILLE, ON – Mastronardi Produce’s SUNSET® is kicking off its first ever Flavor Tour this week to bring flavor to American consumers coast to coast.
“We wanted to create the opportunity to have more face time with our consumers,” said CEO Paul Mastronardi. “The tour is our chance to tell our story, to share our passion, and to create more of a dialogue with produce managers and consumers who love flavor.”
The SUNSET® Flavor Crew will be stopping at retailers, concerts and community events from Massachusetts to California over the next three months, according to a press release. The tour will make its final stop in Anaheim for the PMA Fresh Summit.
While on the road, the Flavor Crew will be handing out free samples of signature SUNSET® recipes to customers at retailers and community events across the country. Both retailers and consumers will have the opportunity to learn more about greenhouse growing and unique SUNSET® brands like Kumato™ and Y.E.L.O.™
The Flavor Crew consists of Michigan State graduates Madison Rial and Mallory Flanders, both of which have a degree in Food Science and a Specialization in Food Industry Management, and Adrian Mendoza, a MSU senior pursuing a degree in Food Industry Management.
“Often times people associate healthy eating with plain flavors and long processes,” said Flavor Crew member Mallory Flanders. “We want to show everyone that you can make quick and healthy recipes that are incredibly flavorful as well.”
Aside from sampling the great recipes, consumers will also have a chance to enter the SUNSET® SweetStakes with a grand prize of a personalized flavor trip for 2 to beautiful Napa Valley. The winners will go on wine tours, take cooking classes and enjoy the beautiful Napa Valley.
To follow the Flavor Tour or request a stop, click here.
GREENSBORO, NC - Call options on stock for The Fresh Market surged last Tuesday, leading many investors and industry analysts to look closer into the operations of this Southeastern retailer. The Fresh Market has been on ANUK's radar as of late as we previously speculated that a merger with Sprouts Farmers Market, could be possible. Though highly unlikely, could this option surge indicate a potential deal between these two retailers behind the scenes?
For more on this merger speculation, check out our previous article on the subject here.
During Tuesday's trading, investors acquired 511 call options on its stock, 144% more than the average volume of call options at 209. These call options grant their owner the right to buy a stock at a prespecified price during a certain time period. Investors profit when the stock price rises over this purchase price.
This stock activity was preceded by a recent rash of updates on The Fresh Market's stock from major stock analyst firms. According to the Ticker Report, these updates were:
An “underperform” rating with a $29.00 price target by Credit Suisse on July 17th
A “buy” rating from Northcoast Research on July 15th
A “sell” rating with a $9.00 decrease in price target to $27.00 by Goldman Sachs on July 8th
After Tuesday's trading activity, The Fresh Market has a consensus rating of “hold” with an average price target of $39.41, according to the Ticker Report.
Whether this recent activity could potentially indicate a huge future deal in the works, like a Sprouts merger, for The Fresh Market is difficult to tell, but it is a question which must nonetheless be asked.
As of the time of writing this article at 10:08am PST on Wednesday, August 6th, The Fresh Market's stock is down 0.73% to $29.73 per share. At the close of Tuesday's trading the stock was priced at $29.95 per share.
Stay tuned to ANUK for any updates on The Fresh Market.
MONTEREY, CA - The recent PMA Foodservice Conference in Monterey shattered previous records in attendance and participation, a feat which Cathy Burns, the President of the Produce Marketing Association, is exceptionally proud.
"Everywhere we broke record which says to me that the show provided incredible value to operators, food distributors, suppliers to ultimately innovate the plate and provide some really exciting things for consumers,” she told ANUK.
In all, PMA Foodservice had 1821 registrants, over 200 operators, 164 booths, and a record number of participants in its 5K race. In addition, PMA Foodservice's Woman's Fresh Perspectives program drew impressive attendance numbers, with 150 women and men gathering together to talk about how the produce industry can best support and inspire women to reach their fullest potential.
Cathy made a point of thanking the incredible leadership PMA Foodservice benefited from, especially Fritz Stelter and Jill Overdorf, the two Co-Chairs, as well as all of PMA Foodservices staff.
“It felt effortless,” she said.
Check out even more great PMA highlights in PMA TV part 3: