BENTONVILLE, AR - The biggest game of the year just got a whole heckuva lot bigger with the addition of Walmart to the Super Bowl’s all-star commercial lineup. For the first time ever, Walmart will be airing an ad during the Big Game. This ad—dubbed Famous Visitors—will not only highlight the convenience of the retailer’s Pickup service but will also feature a few celeb partners from some of the biggest intellectual properties in entertainment.
“Famous Visitors brings 12 ‘visitors’ from popular TV shows and movies—and their creative transportation methods—together for the first time ever as they touch down on Earth to conveniently pick up everything they need curbside at Walmart,” Janey Whiteside, EVP and Chief Customer Officer, wrote in a press release. “From Flash Gordon and Buzz Lightyear making their way to Earth to Bill S. Preston, Esq. of Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure arriving to a Walmart parking lot via his iconic telephone booth, these famous visitors all travel long ways—even across the galaxy—to experience the out-of-this-world convenience of Pickup.”
As one of the biggest eating, marketing, and sporting events of the year, it’s no wonder that Walmart pulled out all the stops to make its game-day debut one to remember. While the campaign plays off of one launched last year, Walmart is upping the stakes by including beloved characters from Star Wars, Arrival, Blade Runner, Guardians of the Galaxy, The LEGO Movie, Mars Attacks, Marvin the Martian, Men in Black, and Star Trek.
In addition to the 60-second spot, Walmart is doubling down on its marketing efforts on social media and beyond, with Whiteside teasing new content to come following the Big Game. Each effort is rooted in introducing tens of millions of sports fans and grocery shoppers to the possibility of Walmart Pickup reinventing the shopping experience.
As big-name retailers continue to up the ante of grocery, AndNowUKnow will keep reporting on all the freshest news.
HAMBURG, GERMANY - Apeel, a warrior in the fight against food waste, has expanded its partnership with German-based company, the EDEKA Group, to utilize its signature Apeel technology to protect oranges and clementines. EDEKA and German grocer Netto Marken-Discount previously partnered with Apeel for its avocado program, and now the technology will be applied to the citrus varieties and launched in Netto stores.
EDEKA and Netto have partnered with Apeel before, previously launching Apeel’s avocados at selected stores at the end of 2019. Oranges and clementines are the next fruits to follow the avocado pilot project. In the future, Apeel’s plant-based protective coating will ensure longer-lasting freshness of EDEKA World Wildlife Fund oranges (1.5-kg bag), EDEKA SELECTION “Navel Gold” oranges (1-kg bag), as well as EDEKA SELECTION “ClemenGold” clementines (750-g Bag).
Apeel’s technology forms a protective layer consisting of plant-based materials around its fruit. The protective coating slows down water loss and penetration by oxygen—two major factors contributing to fruit and vegetable decay, according to a press release. This technology not only lowers the amount of food wasted, it also makes plastic foil unnecessary in many cases.
As with the avocados, consumers can expect to find the oranges and clementines in selected EDEKA stores throughout northern Germany and North-Rhine Westphalia, as well as at Netto stores in parts of Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and Lower Saxony. In 2020, these longer shelf-life products are scheduled to launch nation-wide across Germany.
For more news on technological partnerships in the industry, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
WATSONVILLE, CA - One year ago, California Giant Berry Farms partnered with Measure to Improve in order to advance its commitment to becoming a True Zero Waste Certified company. In addition, the company has set forth a variety of sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing materials used within its packaging. According to a news release, these efforts have turned up significant results as of late.
“We have been actively working with the Alliance for Plastic Thermoform Recycling for the last 18 months to get ahead of impending legislation to maintain our position of using large amounts of post-consumer recycled PET,” says Vice President of Operations, Lucky Westwood. “A resolution set forth by the California Strawberry Commission, California Giant, and several other various grower-shippers is to adopt ready-to-recycle clamshells and higher recycled thermoform content clamshells in the future, and I am happy to say we are making strides toward that change.”
In 2009, the company eliminated wax in all corrugated trays so they would become 100 percent recyclable. Four years later, it reduced the amount of paper used in its strawberry trays by 12 percent, and reduced paper by 22 percent in pallet stability tie sheets. Just two years later, California Giant eliminated tray options that required more paper and plastic for larger pack sizes, again decreasing materials used. Today, its berry clamshells are made from post-consumer recycled materials and require 11 percent less plastic weight than three years ago.
“We know we have more work to do to support sustainable packaging and reduce our carbon footprint, and we are excited about working with the industry to continue to make improvements for future generations,” comments Westwood.
With sustainable packaging top of mind for the industry, senior staff at California Giant have been collaborating with other industry members through the California Strawberry Commission to consider an industry-wide commitment to new packaging goals by adopting new label standards, encouraging consumer recycling, and new purchasing specifications for raw materials needed to make sustainable clamshells in the future.
“There is a lot of work left to do, and we accept the challenge,” adds Westwood. “As an industry, we should be very proud of the work we have done with APTR and the California Strawberry Commission, as our group has now helped persuade dozens of shippers and hundreds of producers into following the path toward sustainable packaging that we have laid out.”
Along with the resolution to maintain leadership in finding sustainable packaging solutions, California Giant has tackled its True Zero Waste Certification initiatives by introducing recycle, food waste, and landfill bins in its facilities to minimize cross-contamination; reducing the use of plastic cups, cutlery, and paper; and even donating food and office supplies to local organizations for reuse as it makes its way to becoming 100 percent Zero Waste Certified by June 2020.
As sustainability efforts across the fresh produce industry continue to unfold, keep a tab open for us at ANUK.
MISSION, TX - The advantages and benefits of working in the fresh produce industry are many, from the passion it inspires to the healthy food our sector produces. One of those many gifts given to us by this industry also resides in the leaders who forever impacted the history of the game and who will inevitably change the course of fruits and vegetables on the world's stage.
On Monday evening, January 27th, nearly 260 produce industry professionals and family members convened at the 2020 Texas International Produce Association’s (TIPA) Hall of Fame Ceremony and Banquet, where seven industry veterans were honored for their longstanding contributions to the Texas produce industry.
Among those honored at the event were Harold Macomb (posthumously), Ross LaGrange (posthumously), Aquiles J. Garza of Bebo Distributing, Kathy Reavis of Reavis Farms, Charlie LaGrange of J&D Produce, Lawrence Kroman of I-Kunik, and Jimmy Pawlik of Pawlik Farms.
“The Hall of Fame is always an incredibly touching and moving event,” Dante Galeazzi, President and CEO of TIPA, commented. “Hearing the stories of leaders who laid the foundation for our region’s success, who fought and built what we now take as ‘truisms’ of our industry, it is a wonderful chance to show our gratitude for their achievements.”
Established in 1988, the event recognizes the region’s industry leaders who have made exceptional contributions crucial to the long-term success of the trade. From trailblazers to innovators and industry advocates, these members have also served on behalf of the industry in many different capacities, pushing for the betterment of all the region’s fresh produce stakeholders, according to a press release.
Along with these top distinctions, Jimmy Santos of Santos International US Customs Brokers, was also an honoree of the night, accepting the Scott Toothaker Award for years of commitment and service to the industry. Established in 1989, the Scott Toothaker Award acknowledges those who are not directly involved in production agriculture, but who have also made important contributions to the Texas produce industry and beyond.
“It’s a privilege to be part of this industry and serving as Chairman of the Hall of Fame Committee is truly an honor,” shared Bob Peterson, formerly of C&V Supply, Mission, Texas, who has served as Chairman of the committee since 2010. “Our biggest challenge as a committee is finalizing a list of honorees when there are so many deserving people.”
The Texas Produce Hall of Fame Committee accepts and reviews nominations throughout the year. The event was held at the McAllen Country Club in McAllen, Texas, where every seat and every table was completely filled to pay tribute to these Texas leaders. The event also provides a platform for the William E. Weeks Agricultural Scholarship fundraiser, established to encourage future generations to carry on the hard work of our past leaders and pursue an education in the field of specialty crop agriculture.
Congratulations to these exceptional leaders and thank you for the amazing contributions that impact us today and will elevate the standards of tomorrow.
VIETNAM - Christina Ward and I find ourselves across the Pacific Ocean enjoying egg coffees together. While I might wish this were true for myself, the scene is an accurate one for Sunkist’s Director of Global Brand Marketing, who just finished helping the company’s Navel oranges break down barriers between the market in Vietnam and our own.
“Sunkist has been working with Vietnam on the re-entry of U.S. citrus into Vietnam’s market. We were so fortunate to be able to host a consumer-facing event and press conference once we gained approval for Sunkist oranges,” Sunkist’s Director shares with me.
Known as a place of wonders for cuisine—Anthony Bourdain was one of several notable palates to call this country a favorite—Vietnamese value quality, flavor, and health—all trademarks of a Sunkist product.
“They have really good food in Vietnam and I think our citrus pairs very well with that reputation,” Christina smiles. “I know in Vietnam there are a lot of healthy eaters, and we received both excitement and energy for the return of U.S. citrus. Consumers in Vietnam love U.S. products and produce—I believe because the consumers believe in the quality and high standards of U.S. providers. They got excited learning about how everything is hand-picked with care and meticulously inspected. They associate these elements with quality and safety.”
And as we all know, timing is everything. Even, if not most especially, when crossing into international markets.
“The timing was perfect because the Tet New Year is this weekend, a big celebration in Vietnam. At Sunkist, we take pride in citrus symbolizing family, bringing people together with the natural association of being able to share our fruit. So being able to distribute to Vietnam’s families in time for the holiday is an opportunity to help them come together. During this time of year, everyone is eating and enjoying each other’s company, so part of our event was the many ways to enjoy Sunkist oranges,” Christina explains, telling me that not only was there a celebrity chef to showcase the citrus item’s versatility in food, but a mixology station as well.
She explained, too, that the Sunkist team also ensured it is working with distributors who have created a reputable name for themselves in fresh produce, setting the table for partnerships globally. With so many plans carefully placed, I have to wonder what might be next for the cooperative.
“Obviously we would love to see all U.S. citrus in Vietnam and beyond,” Christina shared. “Hopefully this is the beginning of something even bigger.”
Rome was not built in a day, and neither was the entirety of the U.S.’s fresh produce offerings to outside markets. But one thing is for sure, the groundbreaking has taken place and there is much to look forward to.
SAN ANTONIO, TX - While it seems like it would be impossible to top last year’s $5-million Big Game ad, H-E-B isn’t afraid of a challenge. This year, alongside actress Eva Longoria—who will be starring in this year’s 60-second H-E-B commercial—the grocer is doing the impossible and launching a one-of-a-kind sweepstakes sure to lure football fans away from game-day spreads with the chance to win a lifetime of free groceries.
“At H-E-B, we’re always looking for ways to go big and show our appreciation for our amazing customers,” said Cory Basso, Group Vice President of Marketing and Advertising. “On TV’s biggest stage, we’re not only introducing Texans to our innovative new My H-E-B mobile app, we’re extending the opportunity to win a prize of a lifetime.”
Specifically, the campaign highlights the My H-E-B mobile app, which brings dozens of new and improved features that make it more convenient and simpler to shop both in-store and online while providing more ways to save, according to a press release. The app allows shoppers to create shopping lists, redeem coupons, find where items are located in store, and place orders for H-E-B curbside pickup or Home Delivery.
The My H-E-B app will also be key in helping a select shopper win the grand prize of H-E-B’s sweepstakes. To enter, participants must download the app and play the game. The game will ask users to choose ten H-E-B products that were featured in the commercial; once ten items are correctly picked, the user will click submit to automatically be entered for a chance to win. Shoppers will have until February 16 to win.
The sweepstakes doesn’t officially kick off until the commercial airs in between the game’s third and fourth quarters in more than a dozen key Texas markets—a debut that is fitting as the grocer’s 60-second commercial features Texas native Eva Longoria playfully crashing a Big Game party to tell partygoers about the new My H-E-B mobile app and the exciting sweepstakes.
As more retailers and produce providers gear up for this weekend’s Big Game, AndNowUKnow will continue to report on the latest innovative endeavors to encourage more consumers to shop fresh.
FLORIDA - Just yesterday we reported on Aldi’s acquisition of multiple Lucky’s Market locations, following news that the chain had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and announced its exit from the Florida market. Now another retail behemoth is throwing its hat in the ring as Publix announced that it plans to purchase five stores from Lucky’s, according to Tampa Bay Business Journal.
Publix’s Director of Media and Community Relations, Maria Brous, confirmed yesterday evening that the company is now under contract to purchase the Clermont, Naples, Neptune Beach, Orlando, and Ormond Beach, Florida, Lucky’s locations. These stores are between roughly 25,000 and 30,000 square feet, according to the news source, which is ideal for conversion to Publix’s banner GreenWise Market.
Who will be next to claim some of the shuttered Lucky’s locations? With Aldi and Publix each purchasing five stores, there are at least ten more left on the auction block. Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow as we report on the latest news.
McALLEN, TX - Food safety and sustainability are two topics that are always at the forefront of our industry’s thoughts. Fox Packaging and Fox Solutions counts itself among those companies leading the charge in flexible packaging solutions, ensuring that its products protect food, promote traceability, and cut down on waste. I spoke with Aaron Fox, President of sister company Fox Solutions; and Craig Fox, Executive Vice President of Fox Packaging, to find out more about the company’s flexible packaging capabilities.
“The demand for more sustainable products continues to rise, specifically in recyclable and reusable applications,” Aaron explained to me. “Our stand-up format in combo and HD styles have received great interest for its convenience features and its contribution to the reduction of greenhouse gases due to the lightweight nature of our materials. We’ve also seen a transition out of single-use header bags into fresh mesh bags, as our product offers recyclability, reusability, and is reworkable through the Kwik-Lok closure.”
Fox Packaging’s signature Fresh Mesh offers substantial respiration. In studies conducted by Michigan State University’s School of Packaging, it has been credited to extend the shelf life in some commodities of up to 5 weeks.
“Sustainable packaging innovation aims to address food waste and reduce loss by preserving food quality, as well as reinforcing food safety concerns. Taking steps to automate operations, while being mindful of the unique requirements in fresh food packaging, supports sustainable efforts,” continues Aaron. “Through Fox Solutions, automated packaging equipment offers a competitive edge with the ability to control production output, reduce overall waste, and accommodate various packaging formats without significant tooling.”
In order to continue to be a well-rounded packaging partner, Fox Packaging has invested in research and development initiatives with a focus on sustainable innovation specific for fresh produce. To enable employees with sustainable food safety-equipped thinking, Fox has also expanded its internal training program to ensure the core values of the company are demonstrated in the culture and processes on the floor.
“Fox Packaging’s innovative culture can be attributed to our many years of service to the fresh produce industry. To be a continued resource to retailers, we’ve joined our customers in understanding various pain points within their operations and have worked diligently to adapt our products to offer greater value-added options. We understand the need for more sustainable packaging and have taken great measures through research and development to provide a packaging solution that services produce while being mindful of our environment,” added Craig Fox.
Curious about Fox's latest innovations and packaging solutions? Questions can be directed here.
Fox Packaging continues to lead in flexible packaging that is sustainable, eye-catching, and puts food safety at the forefront. AndNowUKnow will be here to report on its latest innovations.
WASHINGTON, DC - Recently, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it has reversed its previous decision and has determined that Jeff Pfaff was not responsibly connected to Farm Fresh Packers LLC, based in Pompano Beach, Florida.
Direct from the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service:
Farm Fresh Packers, LLC violated the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA) by failing to pay two reparation awards totaling $304,102 in August 2019. As a result, the USDA imposed sanctions on the business, including requiring that all principals may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee without USDA approval.
The USDA made an initial determination that Jeff Pfaff was responsibly connected to Fresh Packers LLC and subject to sanction. Jeff Pfaff disputed the initial determination and the USDA has now determined that he was not responsibly connected to Fresh Packers LLC at the time of the violation.
As a result, Jeff Pfaff may be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee.
The PACA Division, which is a part of AMS’ Fair Trade Practices Program, regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses that are operating subject to the PACA, including buyers, sellers, commission merchants, dealers, and brokers within the fruit and vegetable industry.
In the past three years, the USDA resolved approximately 3,500 PACA claims involving more than $58 million. PACA staff also assisted more than 7,800 callers with issues valued at approximately $148 million. These are just two examples of how USDA continues to support the fruit and vegetable industry.
For further information, contacts, and to read the press release in its entirety, please click the link here.
IRVINGTON, NY - BrightFarms has recently announced changes to its customer team in an effort to better support its retail partners. The company has promoted Abby Prior to the role of Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, and has hired Matt DiNitto to fill the role of Director of Sales, East.
“This expansion of our customer team brings the energy and vision that will allow us to continue to build our best-in-class local salad program,” said Steve Platt, CEO, in a press release. “We’re rapidly establishing a footprint across the Eastern U.S., we’re excited to open the Carolinas as our next market.”
In her new role, Prior will lead BrightFarms’ Customer Growth Team, where she will oversee category and brand growth at partner retailers. Prior has been with BrightFarms since 2015 and has become an essential component of the company’s success with national retailers, developing longstanding partnerships with Kroger, Ahold-Delhaize, and Walmart. As a prominent industry leader, Prior has been named a Woman of Influence in the Food Industry by The Griffin Report, among other accolades.
DiNitto brings a diverse background to his new role as Director of Sales, East, and has extensive experience in CPG, ranging from dairy to baked goods. Most recently, he worked at Dean Foods as its Senior Director of National Customers, a role in which he oversaw the company’s relationship with Ahold-Delhaize and other major retailers. DiNitto has also worked with national retail customers at Bimbo Bakeries USA.
In addition to its most recent hires and promotions, BrightFarms will be opening its newest and largest greenhouse in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, later this month. The new facility will expand BrightFarms’ distribution throughout the Northeast, with a focus on the tri-state region. BrightFarms has also appointed Affinity Sales as its Northeast broker to support the company’s growth throughout the area, and Bob McGowan will serve as the company’s lead Account Executive.
Congratulations to Abby and Matt on their exciting new positions.