NASHVILLE, TN - The organic feast of the East that is SEPC’s Southern Innovations Organics & Foodservice Expo kicks off this week, and there are several stops on the intimate show floor you don’t want to miss. Among them for certain is the Tom Lange Family of Companies.
“SEPC Southern Innovations has proved to be a well-attended, small venue show that highlights fresh ideas and new products that draw in people for all segments of our industry,” Wally Lampertz, VP Sales for Tom Lange Co.’s Nashville arm, stated.
In addition to Nashville, the company’s Atlanta and St. Louis locations will be at the show to represent and promote its nationwide organic and foodservice programs and availability.
“We get great value in exhibiting at Southern Innovations for a number of reasons,” Marketing Specialist Bre Macomber tells me. “The intimate show size allows for more in-depth conversations with our industry partners, the opportunity to meet new grower/shippers and customers, and having a focus on organic and foodservice business allows for more targeted prospecting and relationship-building in those segments.”
Bre added that SEPC puts together an outstanding convention year after year, with impactful speakers who are on trend with the hot topics in our industry.
With plenty to bring to the table, the Tom Lange team is going to be highlighting its California-grown Seven Seas organic strawberries.
“We’ll have these on display in our booth, directly from our farms in California. We practice sustainable organic land use by crop rotation, which is very important to our company, our employees, and our customers and consumers. Our consistent quality and year-round supply translates to confidence in Seven Seas’ product, which our customers have come to expect from us,” Bre explains.
Time flies in fresh produce! As foodservice operators, retail buyers, organic growers, and more return to the Music City to enjoy fun and meaningful business opportunities with the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center serving as a unique backdrop, don’t forget to swing by booth #409 this week, September 12 to 14.
REIDSVILLE, GA - It’s that time of year again, folks, when the produce industry is packing up its innovative products—and its cowboy boots—and heading down to Nashville, Tennessee, for the Southeast Produce Council’s (SEPC) Southern Innovations. Shuman Farms, the year-round producer and shipper of Vidalia and Peruvian sweet onions, is one such company making sure that the event lives up to its name. The company recently announced big changes to the look, feel, and sustainability of its organic packaging, which attendees will be able to see this weekend.
“The revamp of our organic packaging is just the beginning of an overall initiative to increase sustainability across all of our RealSweet® brand products,” said John Shuman, President. “Innovative marketing is a part of our core values, and we believe that innovation should lead to more sustainable offerings at retail following trends of consumer and retailer demand.”
According to a press release, the plastic in the new consumer bags will be reduced by 38 percent through the use of a different netting and thinner film, all while maintaining the structural integrity of packaging. The goal of this new initiative, the company noted, is to reduce plastic usage, educate consumers on the recyclability of onion packaging, and address shopper concerns about food waste in America.
In addition to shopper feedback, the focus of educating consumers on reducing food waste also stems from Shuman Farms’ partnership with Feeding America®. According to Feeding America, 40 percent of food in America goes to waste, and yet 1 in 8 struggle with hunger.
Like the rest of the RealSweet brand line of consumer bags, the redesigned organic packaging reduces shrink by design, allowing good airflow around the onions to keep them fresh.
“We are looking forward to unveiling the new packaging at the upcoming Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Innovations Organics & Food Service show in Nashville,” continued Shuman. “This show is the perfect platform to showcase the new look and feel and share information on the future of Shuman Farms’ overall sustainability efforts.”
Be sure to see the new packaging for yourself at Shuman Farms’ booth #301!
ZAANDAM, THE NETHERLANDS - The major retailer bid adieu to a key member today. Ahold Delhaize, the Dutch international retailer, recently reported that Jeff Carr, Ahold’s Chief Financial Officer, has informed the company that he will not stand for another term as member of the Management Board after his current term expires per the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders in April 2020.
“I respect Jeff’s decision and wish him and his family all the best for the future,” Frans Muller, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented in the press release. “I would like to recognize Jeff for his significant contributions to the company as he remains a great partner in helping shape Ahold Delhaize, in driving our Save for our Customers program, and in delivering on our commitments. I look forward to our continued collaboration through next April as we further implement our Leading Together Strategy.”
Carr joined Ahold in November 2011, then was appointed as a member of the Management Board in April 2012, and then finally his current role as CFO in July 2016.
“It has been a pleasure to serve this great company and its associates during the last eight years,” Carr shared. “I look forward to continue working with Frans to ensure a smooth transition and to help identify my successor.”
No successor has been immediately announced, but ANUK will continue to report.
GOODLETTSVILLE, TN - 2019 has been a busy year for the budget retailer. In between announcing a new store format to executive changes, Dollar General has been planning its expansion strategy. The retailer recently announced that it is currently constructing new stores in Washington and Wyoming, which will up its national presence to 46 states.
“We look forward to expanding our footprint into Washington and Wyoming and the opportunity to serve new customers with value and convenience through our mission of Serving Others,” said Dan Nieser, Senior Vice President of Real estate and Store Development. “At Dollar General, our customers are at the center of all we do. We believe the addition of each new Dollar General store presents positive economic growth for the communities we serve through the creation of local career opportunities and the ability for customers to purchase affordable, quality items in our easy-to-shop, small box format.”
According to a press release, stores are currently under construction in Centralia, Washington; Cathlamet, Washington; and Pine Bluffs, Wyoming. They are scheduled to open in early fiscal year 2020.
Nieser went on to add, “We look forward to being a long-standing business partner in each of the communities we serve and to welcoming new customers into our stores when these projects are completed next year.”
As retailers continue to expand nationwide, AndNowUKnow will be on the lookout for the latest news.
VANCOUVER, CANADA - Celebrating a promotion is exciting for us over here at ANUK, but four? It’s a downright extravaganza! Oppy recently announced the promotions of four key players to not only its existing roster, but in newly created positions, thereby expanding and building on the business growth and innovation the company has in store.
“As we continue to grow in the highly demanding and dynamic global fresh produce industry, we’re adapting to new challenges with discipline but also a great deal of excitement about the opportunities ahead of us,” said David Smith, President, in the press release. “This experienced and talented foursome is prepared to lead us forward into areas that build on our strengths and open the door for strategic innovation.”
Leading the pack, James Milne will take up the reigns as Senior Vice President, Categories and Marketing. He is now charged with formulating the high-level strategic direction of each of Oppy’s major product groups, which include apples and pears, avocados, berries, citrus, field and greenhouse vegetables, grapes, tropicals, and stonefruit. Milne provides oversight and helps identify opportunities by exploring potential new growing regions, products, and partnerships to assure Oppy’s portfolio remains relevant and leading edge. Milne has held leadership roles in virtually all Oppy categories throughout his 26-year tenure.
Karin Gardner has been promoted to Executive Director of Marketing, taking over for Milne and now leading the execution of Oppy’s overall marketing strategy, involving communications, branding, insights, integrated marketing campaigns, and more. First joining Oppy in 1992, Gardner has served as Director, Corporate Communications, and Marketing Communications Manager in recent years.
Working closely with Milne and Gardner to assure alignment between sales, marketing, and categories, Brett Libke has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Sales, North America. Libke leads the sales strategy and market development initiatives for the full range of Oppy products across the U.S. and Canada, overseeing a team of over 50 sales professionals based in more than a dozen strategically located offices. Libke has been with the company since 2011.
Breaking new ground at Oppy as a resource dedicated to innovation, Garland Perkins has been promoted to Senior Manager of Insights and Innovation. Perkins is drawing from her experience in marketing, insights, and business development to create and execute an overarching company innovation strategy through a defined structure and process that brings great ideas at Oppy into fruition.
I’m sure one big celebration is in order! Congratulations to everyone on their new journey from us at ANUK!
ENSENADA, MEXICO - This fall is packed full of produce shows, and each one showcases different aspects of the industry—truly, no two shows are alike! This year, the 12th Annual Congress of AMHPAC (Asociación Mexicana De Horticultura Protegida) was held in Ensenada, Baja California, and attracted more than 500 participants. While there were several parts to the event, and more than a few surprises, all who attended gained valuable insight into the industry.
Oscar Woltman de Vries, after serving three years in charge of leading the select group of producers that make up the National Directing Council of AMHPAC, gave his last report as President of AMHPAC.
"To my fellow Counselors, my thanks for their selfless dedication and dedication throughout this period, I also want to extend my thanks to Alfredo Díaz for his unconditional support to me and his team, his constant effort, and his friendship," he commented.
During the report, he detailed the most important achievements throughout his tenure, and conveyed how gratifying it has been to lead the National Directing Council of AMHPAC. He also mentioned how the position at the forefront of the organization required him to pay closer attention to its organization and administration.
At the event, almost 200 agricultural representatives of farmers from 22 states of the Mexican Republic were in attendance, along with representatives from Mexico, the U.S., Canada, Holland, France, and Spain. Among the highlights were the new National Directing Council of AMHPAC, sworn in with incoming President Guillermo Jiménez Cárdenas, and 50-plus sponsors of AMHPAC having a stand in the commercial area of this year’s event.
This year kicked off with a 5K race sponsored by Rijck Swaan, Fresh Mex, and Green House Produce Company, where nearly 100 attendees participated in a great chance to exercise while connecting with colleagues and potential clients. The speedsters who blasted past the competition included Kurt Tsuo, Produce Pay; Luis García, Horticonnect; and Julián de Ambrosi, Control Union.
If the 5K was the warm-up act, the show officially began at the Inaugural Act that featured several important officials from the Protected Vegetable Industry in Mexico at the presidium. Members included:
- Alfredo Díaz Belmontes (Director General of the AMHPAC)
- José Antonio García Vigil (Regional Director of Northwest FIRA)
- Salvador García (President of the CABC)
- Oscar Woltman (President of the National Directing Council of the AMHPAC)
- Mario Escobedo (Representative of the Elected Governor of Baja California)
- Héctor Manlio Peña Jiménez (Deputy General Director of FIRA Business Promotion)
- Hugo Arredondo Bernal (Deputy Director of Biological Control of the National Phytosanitary Reference Center SENASICA)
The opening ceremony concluded with a special recognition given to the company of Querétaro, Agros SA de CV, as Exemplary Partner of 2019. The honor acknowledges the commitment and delivery of the company within the industry and the highest level in Agrifood Shielding program (Level 5), which involves certifications with the highest standards of safety, traceability, and social responsibility. Monserrat Duarte, legal representative of the company, was on hand to receive the award.
Assembly Members who were present also voted on the new board of directors that will represent more than 250 producers and 70 sponsors of AMHPAC for the next two years, according to a press release.
An important focus of the event was, of course, the status of the Mexican Tomato Suspension Agreement. After the General Assembly wrapped up, the negotiating team of the New Mexican Tomato Suspension Agreement was given the floor.
The team included:
- Bob Larussa (Shearman & Sterling)
- Martín Ley (Fresh Evolution)
- Dolores Aguirre (Aguirre, Aguirre and Associates)
- Salvador García (Pdte. CABC)
- Oscar Woltman (Pdte. AMHPAC)
- Rosario A. Beltrán (Pdte. IACHR)
- Alfredo Díaz Belmontes (DG AMHPAC)
The team explained the political environment in which the negotiations took place, the challenges involved in the negotiations, the main aspects of the agreement, the percentage participation and border inspections, and more.
“I believe the signing of the TSA, with its present limitations, will allow the Mexican Tomato Industry to sell in the USA a high quality tomato produced according to the latest quality and social responsibility requirements to fully satisfy a basic need of our neighbour consumer,” Oscar Woltman de Vries said.
The event also contained multiple conferences, which included:
- Conference 1: Current situation and perspectives of fresh produce retail, featuring speaker José Ferrer, International Purchasing Director at Walmart México
- Keynote Conference 2: Political and Economic Perspectives, featuring speaker Denise Dresser, researcher, writer, columnist, commentator, and political analyst
For more news on industry events like this one, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
OXNARD, CA - The time for the Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Innovations Organics and Foodservice Expo is just about here. Attendees and exhibitors from across the industry are counting down the days till the event as they build their target list of the top companies bringing the latest and greatest from across fruit and veg categories. Mission Produce is ramping up its program and messaging just in time and sharing a little pre-show love as it taps into the growing avocado craze.
“This year at Southern Innovations, we will be having blind taste-testing and talking about our latest innovation in this space, Size Interchangeability,” Denise Junqueiro, Director of Marketing shares with me. “It is a lot of fun to test people’s understanding of what really makes up the flavor of avocados. There is an understanding among most folks that flavor has to do with origin. The fact is the reality of the situation is the flavor is really influenced by the seasonality and oil content, not origin. We hope people stop by and participate in the tasting and test their avocado understanding.”
While attendees take in the avocado taste bud teasers, Mission will also be talking about Size Interchangeability—an innovation that will bring a huge benefit to foodservice operators and chefs. Size interchangeability is a measurement resource to help on flexibility when it comes to size usage, Denise notes. The resource will show you how to manage the amount of pulp you need on any size avocado, from jumbo to mini.
“Size Interchangeability helps maximize the plate because an operator won’t be limited on avocados due to the size curve,” Denise tells me. “Many times the size curve—which is the curve of what the tree is producing when it comes to size—can vary. This can be challenging in the foodservice space due to internal specs for a dish or item. Size Interchangeability gives you the tools to adjust and keep those avocados on plates everywhere. This also helps those diners never lose out on their fan favorite.”
Mission Produce is always inspired to find solutions, and an issue that kept rising to the scene for the industry was the challenges foodservice experienced when supplies on sizes were affected due to the trees production.
“No matter what the tree is producing and what your spec is, you are still able to have avocados in any dish. We show just how easy it is to adjust sizes and still get the same amount of pulp whether you are slicing, dicing, mashing, or pureeing,” Denise adds. “There is always good demand and we see it increasing in the foodservice space as more and more restaurants are adding avocados to center plate dishes and not using them for just Hispanic-themed dishes. Supplies are strong currently and ready to be on every chef's latest creation.”
Stop by Mission Produce booth #506 to check out more of the program, and always avoca-DO when it comes to this green machine of a category—and to the attendees, have a great show!
ORLANDO, FL - The Produce Business’s annual Marketing Excellence Award went to 12 brands and commodity boards this year, one of which was the inaugural Produce for Kids® Mission for Nutrition promotion. This promotion focuses on the importance of a healthy family diet and the value of meal planning and prepping, all while aiming to increase the consumption of fresh produce. It’s both an online and an in-store initiative which aligns with health-conscious brands, commodity boards, and retail dietitians alike.
“We are thrilled to be presented with such a prestigious industry award and in the company of top-notch brands and commodity boards,” said Trish James, Vice President. “Retail dietitians present a huge opportunity to impact shoppers’ decisions. Pairing our retail dietitian outreach with a robust digital program directly targeting consumers was a recipe for success.”
Partners of Mission for Nutrition include Avocados From Mexico, Crispy Green®, Earthbound Farm®, Eat Smart®, NatureFresh™ Farms, Pero Family Farms, RealSweet®, and the National Watermelon Promotion Board. They were featured on the program’s website, e-newsletters, media channels, and influencer outreach initiatives.
The program delivered Mission for Nutrition kits to more than 400 retail dietitians and 52 retailers across the U.S. and Canada throughout the company’s National Nutrition Month®. Kits included samples, coupons, brochures, or promotional items from partner brands. Consumers could even download free meal planning eBooks that feature a five-day, registered dietitian-approved family meal plan, shopping list, and meal planning tips. Dietitians were encouraged to create a display or host an event with these items and submit photos to be considered for a $1,000 continued education scholarship.
“The award comes as we are in conversations to secure health-conscious brand partners for our second annual Mission for Nutrition,” said James. “When we developed this program, we hoped it would resonate with retail dietitians and shoppers, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. We are looking forward to another great program in 2020.”
Overall, the program received more than 126 million impressions across its website, public relations efforts, influencer outreach, Healthy Family Project podcast “Healthy Bites” segments, meal planning eBook downloads, e-newsletters, social media profiles, and Twitter party. In March, 12,000 consumers entered to win a weekly giveaway focused on meal prep kitchen gadgets, and more than 22,000 meal planning mini magazines were distributed to shoppers across the U.S. and Canada.
Since 2002 Produce for Kids has raised more than $7 million for charities that benefit families and children. Congratulations to the organization for a successful program that earned it such a prestigious award.
SAN CARLOS, CA - Avocados have taken over consumer consciousness, so much so that avocado lovers want to see their favorite fruit in as many forms as possible. To answer the call, the Chilean Avocado Importers Association (CAIA) introduced a fun and fresh digital campaign. Starting September 2019, fans can get monthly avocado-inspired desktop and mobile phone backgrounds with a free download. On the first of each month, a new seasonally-inspired illustration will be released so consumers can download and keep their calendars up to date with the latest and greatest in all things avocado.
“Over the years, we have not only seen the growth of avocado-inspired dishes, but also avocado-inspired memes, gifs, quotes, t-shirts, and slogans,” said Karen Brux, CAIA’s Managing Director. “With the launch of our monthly calendar, fans can now take their love for Avocados from Chile digital.”
According to a press release, the digital calendar is just one piece of a larger marketing campaign for Avocados from Chile. Fans can download the September digital calendar today by visiting here. At the beginning of each month, a new digital download will be unveiled and made available for the following 12 months.
Avocados from Chile are in-market throughout the fall and winter, so get in on that campaign now!
AndNowUKnow will be here to report all things avocado-related.
BENTONVILLE, AR - The mega-retailer is tackling the rising interest of fresh food head-on by revamping its merchandising techniques under the guise of “Produce 2.0.” The progress in fresh food lately has been a major element in the retailer’s recent U.S. sales momentum, but Steve Bratspies, Walmart’s U.S. Chief Merchandising Officer, believes that Walmart can achieve more.
“We think there’s a lot of opportunity in front of us,” Bratspies said, “and we don’t think we’re as good as we need to be.”
Although specific details remain scarce, the retailer plans to inform its store managers about the initiative at a meeting in Indianapolis later this month. During the Barclays Global Consumer Conference interview in New York, Bratspies states Walmart is focusing on thinking “holistically and thought about how do we start resourcing all the way through the register in our store and, quite frankly, into the customer's home, so they have a greater, longer freshness for their produce.”
“You never actually get there and there’s always things you can do to improve, and we’re continuing to work on all those things,” he said. “But we’re starting to see some momentum in the business. We like where we are and working that with Produce 2.0, which we’re going to talk to our managers about. We’re going to go even further.”
Along with improving the fresh selection of produce that Walmart offers, Bratspies also mentions plans on improving Walmart’s selection of private label items as well.
“All the things that a traditional branded manufacturer does, we built that capability in-house, and it’s made a huge difference in our ability to go to market, and the customers are responding to it,” Bratspies said. "They’re choosing it more and more.”
With these initiatives, Walmart not only takes consumers into consideration, but retailers and suppliers as well, as Bratspies further elaborated with Retail Link.
Bratspies concludes by stating, “we see customers of all demographics continuing to grow with us as we launch things like online grocery, as we build private brands, as we improve our fresh business.”
For more developments with big name retailers in the industry, keep reading ANUK.