LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE, CA - There’s nothing better than stopping by a company’s booth at any of our industry’s trade shows and getting the opportunity to hear first-hand about the growth that company is experiencing. At United Fresh, this was the case for many of our industry’s leading providers, including the Allen Lund Company. We chatted with Kenny Lund, VP at the ALC Logistics Division of Allen Lund Company, to find out more. Here’s what he had to say…
“In the ALC division, we are excited because we’re expanding. We’ve had explosive growth. More than 50 percent of our sales comes from our current customers asking for more modules, whether it’s in accounting or load tracking or dock scheduling, and now we’ve built from seven modules up to 15 different modules in the transportation suite,” Kenny shared with me.
Kenny attributed this growth to the positive feedback the Allen Lund Company has been receiving from its customers. He noted that many have said that Allen Lund’s software is improving company’s transportation systems and even relationships thanks to better pricing and better service.
“It’s really nice to hear from them that this is an effective strategy for them to improve their supply chain, and the really nice thing is our software aids in communication with their transportation providers, and also throughout the whole company so now buyers have more information about what their costs are,” Kenny explained. “We’re able to provide that information so they can make better decisions.”
To learn more from Kenny himself, check out our exclusive video above.
MCALLEN, TX - SiCar Farms has taken steps to boost its game plan to improve environmental conservation efforts. The company uses state-of-the-art technology that will encourage sustainable agricultural practices that support crop preservation and renewable energy usage.
“We have a firm commitment to conservation, productivity, and improvements to make this planet a healthier place now and for generations to come,” stated Luis Gudino, CEO.
According to a press release, SiCar Farms creates bio-repellents that aid to biologically control pests presently.
“By the use of organic inputs such as natural extracts, these inputs help to suppress the appetite of insects and provide mineral oils for good agricultural practices,” said Gudino. “They actually help biological control of pests through other living organisms. These processes introduce natural defenses into the agriculture and the pest are driven out by biological pest control. We also utilize compost as natural fertilizers that are formed by composted manure and vegetable waste. Vermicompost is created by earthworms and the use of leachate process where liquid nutrients are extracted and irrigated into the fields to improve the quality of the soil and nourish the growth of the plants.”
SiCar Farms uses these techniques for both conventional and organic products. Combined with compost and chemical fertilizers, the nutrients for conventional products are slowly released into the agriculture. The nutrients are introduced through compost without any type of chemical fertilizers for the organic products.
SiCar Farms has also presented 500 beehives that help in the pollination process. SiCar Farms yields steady, sustainable, and quality supply of products to meet customers’ requirements due to these proven effective techniques and good agricultural practices.
The first warehouse to be fully operated by solar energy is one of SiCar Farms packaging facilities in Veracruz, Mexico. The amount of solar energy generated varies depending on weather conditions, however, on average 38 MWh to 45 MWh per month will be generated. This system is designed to reduce up to 70 percent actual energy consumption and generate the amount of energy necessary to completely operate the packing facility.
“Our packing facility in Veracruz, already has 972 solar panels and is the first of this type of renewable energy in the area,” added Gudino. “We have other packing houses throughout Mexico, specifically one in Colima, one in Jalisco, one in Michoacán as well as the ones we have here in McAllen. Our goal is to have 100 percent sustainable operations in all five facilities with solar energy by 2021. Our use of biodegradable packing will have a positive impact on reducing the usage of plastic materials.”
SiCar Farms use of biodegradable materials and recyclable materials is a critical goal to being eco-friendly and reducing its carbon footprint. Further, SiCar Farms is in the process of changing its packaging materials to new sustainable materials made from corn that will have a durability of 60 to 90 days as well.
SiCar Farm’s focus is to minimize the impact to our environment and go “Grupo Gudino Ochoa” Grown Green every day through these steps.
For more news on SiCar Farm’s technologies, keep checking back with AndNowUKnow.
GLENDALE, AZ - It’s a news-heavy week for Sprouts Farmers Market, which just divested an Arizona-based cold-storage and distribution center for $17.4 million.
The space spans 128,929-square-feet, offering refrigeration and freezer space, heavy trailer parking, functional loading, and prime truck maneuverability.
The buyer of the property is a fund sponsored by CBRE Global Investors, which has been targeting cold storage as a subtype according to news source connect media. And, while it may be sold, it seems it will still be utilized to serve Sprouts' customers.
“The property is well-located and leased to a leading grocer, Sprouts Farmers Market,” Cooper Fratt, Industrial Leasing & Sales First Vice President at CBRE, said in the report. “CBRE Global Investors saw an opportunity to purchase an asset class underserved in the Phoenix market. With a recent state-of-the-art expansion completed by ONE Properties, the facility should serve Sprouts’ cold-storage distribution needs for years to come.”
CBRE Global Investors’ Kim Hourihan added that the entity is excited to expand its holdings in the sector with the asset addition.
This news is just the latest in a string of strategic moves from Sprouts Farmers Market, which just announced a new CEO last week. This month alone, the retailer kicked off a national hiring event from coast to coast while also continuing its expansion plans in the increasingly competitive Florida market. What will the next move in the buy-side be?
AndNowUKnow will be sure to let you know.
IRVINE, CA - Good morning, AndNowUKnow readers!
Today, I am bringing you some of the category and weather news from around the industry. Check back twice weekly to see where the rain is falling, the sun is shining, and everything in between.
Freezing Temperatures and Rain in Chile
Last night, many growing regions of Chile experienced freezing temperatures with minimums dropping as low as 27° in certain areas. Other regions only saw minimum temperatures in the low 30°s. There were also isolated showers last night with some regions receiving up to .25” of rain.
Last night will be the coldest night of the week. Today, Wednesday, and Thursday will warm a bit with minimum temperatures remaining in the upper 30°s and low 40°s.
Friday, another storm will come into Chile bringing more freezing temperatures and heavy rains. Some regions can expect up to 1.75” of rain with minimum temperatures in the low 30°s.
Possible harvest and quality issues with mandarin? Could be an issue with avocados?
Get Ready for the Garden State to Break Loose
Warmer temperatures coming to New Jersey. Average temperatures for the month of June in New Jersey is a high of 81° and low of 60°. Yesterday, New Jersey saw a maximum temperature of 86° and a low of 71°. Over the next five days, temperatures will rise even more with highs reaching into the mid 90°s while lows will remain in the low 70°s.
As any farmer will tell you, warm nights are more important than warm days in the pace of production of any commodity. With these warm minimum tempseratures, look for production in the Garden State to start sooner than later.
Cooldown Coming to the Northwest
The states of Oregon and Washington will experience cooler than normal temperatures and a chance of rain from Wednesday to Friday of this week. Average temperatures in Oregon for June is a high of 75° and low of 54°. Over the next three days, this region will see maximum temperatures of only 63° and minimums of 47°.
The growing regions of Washington will remain warmer than Oregon, but will also be well below normal for this time of year. In the Yakima Valley, average temperatures for June are a high of 89° and a low of 61°. The next three days will see highs in the mid 70°s and lows in the upper 40°s.
On Saturday, things will begin to warm and temperatures will be back to normal by Monday. Come Wednesday of next week, there is a potential for a heat wave. We will keep you updated.
Mini Heatwave Coming to Michigan
Starting today, Michigan will experience a heat wave over the next eight to ten days. Today’s high will be 81° with a low of 65°. Temperatures will hit a high-water mark on Thursday with a high of 87° and a low of 69°. These temps are about 15° above normal and will last at least through next Tuesday.
Probably look for production numbers to rise out of these regions.
Thanks again, and we'll be back this Friday with another weather report!
GEORGIA - Broccoli is a staple all year long. No matter the season, its crunch, nutrition value, and taste make it one of the most valued veggies in the produce aisle. For Fresh from the Start™, a fourth-generation, family-owned company, it knows the importance of consistently providing the green goods and is beginning the shipment of its Maine broccoli crop.
“We prepare for this crop all year,” said Eric Scannelli, Senior Vice President of Sales. “We begin preparing the fields immediately following harvest and work with our grower throughout the year to ensure a successful crop. When customers buy from us, they are dealing directly with the grower.”
According to a press release, all of Fresh from the Start’s broccoli is hand-cut and packed in the field to minimize bruising and post-harvest handling. Shipment is set to begin in early to mid-July and will continue through October. Having shipped broccoli for over 25 years, Fresh from the Start has the know-how to provide next-day delivery to most major markets, resulting in fresher product.
To stay up-to-date on the latest in fresh fruit and veg, keep reading us here at AndNowUKnow.
PITTSBURGH, PA; CHICAGO, IL - The healthy and better-for-you food sector is blowing up right now, and that means big business. With companies across the country vying for their spot in the category, Kraft Heinz has taken a step in the fresh direction, introducing a new line of products to provide consumers with the unique flavor combinations, textures, health benefits, and exceptional taste that they crave.
“We know that snacking is both functional and emotional and Americans want more from the foods they snack on—more flavor, nutrition, and a better overall taste experience,” said Nicole Kulwicki, Head of Brand Building at Fruitlove. “Fruitlove was born from the idea that we could create a better and more exciting way to snack on smoothies.”
Fruitlove comes in five flavors, including:
- Strawberry Banana Twirl - strawberry, banana, rhubarb, raspberry, and carrot
- Harvest Berry Blend - strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, banana, carrot, and beet
- Mango Medley - banana, pineapple, carrot, and mango
- Pineapple Coconut Bliss - banana, pineapple, squash, and coconut
- Blueberry Dream - banana, apple, squash, and blueberry
The new Fruitlove spoonable smoothies combine real fruits and vegetables with the health benefits of creamy yogurt. According to a press release, each cup is packed with three or more real fruits and vegetables, while providing an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamins A, B1, and B3. The cups come with an adorable mini spoon so consumers have all they need to enjoy a delicious smoothie on-the-go.
Fruitlove was promoted free through ibotta on National Smoothie Day, June 21—users could search for Fruitlove on the ibotta website to receive a free sample cup. The launch is also being supported with a targeted social, digital, and online video campaign. This product finds its home in the yogurt aisle of the grocery store, with an SRP of $1.99.
Stay on the cutting-edge of fruit- and veg-based products, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
BURLINGTON, ONTARIO - It’s only a matter of weeks before our boots hit the Organic Produce Summit show floor, so you know the organic produce industry is itching to get to Monterey ASAP. Here to help ramp up the excitement is Stephanie Cutaia, Marketing Director of EarthFresh Farms, to learn more about the company’s plans to dazzle showgoers.
“This year, we will be showcasing our entire EarthFresh Family of Organic Potatoes. When it comes to Organic potatoes, EarthFresh has you covered!” Stephanie tells me.
Has you covered isn’t even the half of it, for EarthFresh works hard to offer all of its conventional offerings in organic as well, including: Russets, reds, yellows, and whites. The company also has a full lineup of organic baby potatoes that include reds, yellows, mixed—which includes purples—along with a new red and yellow duo bag. Outside of this already stunning lineup, EarthFresh has a new organic Baby Baker Foil-Wrapped 4-pack for the upcoming BBQ season, as well as organic yellow and red onions.
“EarthFresh has exclusive potato varieties that grow very well in organic conditions,” she shares. “Our organic farmers work with natural systems to create and maintain a healthy environment in which to grow potato crops.”
Working hard to maintain what its consumers are looking for, EarthFresh has the data to back up what it brings to market.
“We know that in Canada, 66 percent or shoppers are purchasing organic items weekly and that 68 percent of American consumers purchase organic food items at least once a week. We want to make sure they include Organic potatoes on their shopping list!” she says.
Not only is EarthFresh on the lookout for what its consumers want, the company is constantly working to innovate its products and up its distribution footprint with new facilities.
“We are working to more sustainable packaging that will meet both customer and consumer demands,” Stephanie explains. “EarthFresh is a part of the new CPMA Plastics Working Group that will Identify the challenges and opportunities facing the produce industry, as well as its relative importance in reducing total plastic waste in Canada and globally. EarthFresh has also recently announced the opening of a new facility in College Park, GA, that will support new and existing customers in the United States. Our new facility is scheduled to open in September 2019 and will be complete with advanced technological packing line for organic potatoes, allowing us to provide fresh produce faster.”
For those interested in seeing this dynamic and forward-thinking company for themselves, drop by booth 509 to say hello!
FOLSOM, CA - The California Walnut Board has many reasons to celebrate after seeing an exciting 17 percent increase in unit sales for walnuts following an expanded, unified retail marketing campaign after American Heart Month back in February.
“We are thrilled with the results of our 2019 American Heart Month campaign, which builds upon the success of the 2018 program results. We credit our exceptional retail partners who played such an integral role in this year’s program,” said Michelle Connelly, Executive Director. “Looking ahead to 2020, we plan to build on the program’s momentum by expanding nationally, in what will be the largest retail program to date for California Walnuts during American Heart Month.”
Several retailers also chose to implement the program beyond the target markets and supported California walnuts chain-wide. These included Food Lion, Safeway NorCal, Save Mart, Sprouts, and Raley’s.
As a direct result of the program, walnut brands who participated saw unit sales increases between 110 to 1,080 percent.
According to a press release, retail programs that have been focused on promoting the heart health benefits of walnuts targeted three key markets, such as Sacramento, CA; Denver, CO; and Richmond, VA. The California Walnut Board noted the following highlights within those key markets:
- Sacramento: Compared to February 2018, walnut unit sales were up 95 percent at Raley’s, 12 percent at Safeway, and 11 percent at Save Mart. The success of the program resulted in a participating walnut brand securing year-round distribution in Safeway’s produce department, as opposed to only seasonal sales.
- Denver: Walnut unit sales were up nearly 17 percent at Safeway, with a participating walnut brand seeing a 110 percent lift in unit sales, compared to February 2018.
- Richmond: A three-week walnut promotion at Food Lion drove significant dollar and unit sales increases for the entire store across the full five-week period measured. Walnut unit sales at Food Lion were up 32 percent and a leading walnut brand saw an impressive 1,039 percent lift in unit sales compared to last February. Given these program results surpassed sales achieved in the busy December timeframe, this brand secured year-round distribution in Food Lion’s produce department.
In addition to the above partners, Mollie Stone’s, Price Chopper, Redner’s Markets, Tom Thumb, Jewel Osco, Albertsons, and Pavilions also participated in Heart Month programs.
The success of these retail programs was driven by several points, such as a variety of in-store tactics (point-of-purchase displays, display contests, audio ads, shelf signage, and more), advertising in-market, and integrated activities with retail dietitians. This included educational in-store demos and Facebook Live videos under the Albertsons banner, as well as e-newsletters, blog posts, social content, and a shopper mailer with Price Chopper.
In 2018, starting with two test markets in Charlotte and Minneapolis, California Walnuts initiated a fully mixed marketing campaign around American Heart Month. The program expanded to Sacramento, Denver, and Richmond, this year, with plans to expand the program nationally in 2020. Certified through the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check program, walnuts are a heart-healthy food that is unique as one of the only nuts significantly high in essential omega-3 ALA (2.5 grams/ounce).
For more news on California Walnut Board, and other products in the produce aisle, keep checking back with AndNowUKnow.
TORONTO, CANADA - In this rapidly changing retail landscape, staying ahead of the curve is crucial to staying relevant, and Longo Brothers Fruit Market (Longo’s) is going the distance, pioneering a new meal-based shopping program inside its Maple Leaf Square location in Toronto. The new format offers a unique and personalized shopping experience to the increasingly discerning consumer.
“As the grocery store model continues to evolve, we must focus on developing programs that are both customer-centric and designed for the future of retail,” said Rosanne Longo, Consumer Spokesperson and Brand Ambassador. “Through this program, we hope to create greater value for our customers that will keep them returning to their favourite Longo’s location time and time again.”
As part of the test pilot, each store will feature a kiosk area that will merchandise fresh ingredients according to a specific meal. The kiosks will give shoppers a central location inside the store where they can select their meats, starches, garnishes, and, of course, produce, to craft a specific meal or recipe. According to a press release, shoppers will be able to adjust the size of their meals to accommodate a single person, or up to 10 people—perfect for dinner parties. As added help for its consumers, the pilot stores will provide recipes and step-by-step cooking guides in-store and online.
“Everything we do at Longo’s is about enhancing the overall experience that customers have with our brand both in-store and online,” said Rosanne Longo. “Above all else, we strive to be a place that offers something for everyone—for those who love grocery shopping and browsing the aisles, to the individual who wants to gather their ingredients quickly and conveniently. Whatever the preference, we are committed to continual improvement and perfecting the customer experience at every turn.”
Director of Produce and Floral at Longo’s, Mimmo Franzone, commented on the potential this program has to put a spotlight on fresh produce.
“Along with the value proposition we’re offering our guests, it allows us to showcase the best that the season has to offer when it comes to produce,” he said. “Our in-house innovative team of chefs create meal solutions that are quick and easy to make and made up of the freshest ingredients around. The first three creations included locally-grown asparagus, sweet mini bell peppers, and, for the sweet at heart, golden pineapples.”
The company asserts that the new format has the potential to attract and engage new customers, as well as help returning customers develop better ways of shopping that increase both convenience and ease.
“Similar to the many Longo’s initiatives that are currently underway, this program seeks to prepare us for the future of retail,” commented Rosanne Longo. “As we carefully examine consumer trends, we know that customers are certainly seeking convenience, but we firmly believe that they also want a human-centred experience where they can browse, see, feel, and compare ingredients before purchasing.”
It’s clear that innovation is on the horizon for the retailer.
“Stay tuned for some new and exciting things coming down the pike for Longo’s; or should I say...Be Pronto,” Mimmo teases.
The pilot project, which lauched only yesterday, and the retailer has plans in the works to expand the model to each of its 33 stores by spring 2020.
How will this pilot program stack up against other retailer’s strategies to forge the new future of fresh? Keep reading AndNowUKnow to learn more.
CLEVELAND, OH - In today’s age, convenience reigns supreme. If consumers can find the fresh produce they’re craving in a convenient format, you bet your bottom dollar they’ll be heading there for their quick-fix grocery needs. Dollar General is dialing into this movement with an urban-focused format centered around both city dwellers and millennials.
The new format, titled DGX, is roughly half the size of a typical 9,0000-square-foot Dollar General store. The retailer unveiled the concept late last year and has since been rolling out stores in Nashville, Tennessee; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Raleigh, North Carolina. Its latest store officially opened in downtown Cleveland last Thursday, June 20.
According to Crain's Cleveland Business, Dollar General has plans to open 10 of these small format stores over the course of 2019. A typical DGX will offer a selection of fresh fruit and veg, ensuring that any customer who wants fast and convenient produce can get it. An obvious win-win.
For the latest on how retailers are courting consumers in new ways, keep reading AndNowUKnow.