FORT LAUDERDALE, FL - The company behind the ubiquitous banana brand, Chiquita Brands International, announced a new, dedicated and integrated container service.
The new service is intended to set an even higher standard to safeguard the premium quality of Chiquita bananas across the world, the company noted in a press release, and in doing so, Chiquita is also reducing its carbon footprint.
“Looking back over these past years' work with the container fleet upgrade, we can proudly say we have achieved something remarkable” said Carlos Lopez Flores, Global President of Chiquita. “We’ve saved an unprecedented amount of energy—the equivalent of the CO2 emitted by 3,000 cars per year.”
According to the company’s press release, the new logistic service will now operate five full-container vessels to transport bananas from Central America to Europe’s Vlissingen port in The Netherlands—a modern hub that will allow Chiquita to serve all Northern European destinations with the best transit time in the industry.
Chiquita’s new investment in this new service will both result in fresher bananas and a longer shelf life; new ultra-efficient containers will positively impact fruit quality by using software that automatically regulates the containers’ compressor thereby controlling the atmosphere. And the implementation of this software will also result in a positive environmental impact, as consumption of CO2 has been reduced by 17,000 tons annually. In total, each new container is 50 percent more energy efficient than older models.
The company’s new vessels have also helped to reduce the handling of fruit at ports and increased stowage capacity by 12.5 percent, with more efficient storage from origin to destination guaranteeing the cold chain. These improvements will mean more bananas can be moved per trip, using less energy whilst still ensuring the fruit quality is prioritized.
For more fresh fruit and veggie news, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
WENATCHEE, WA - Hans Christian Andersen once said, “To travel is to live.” To that I say, “To travel via apple is to live even more.” Feel free to quote me. In an all-new marketing campaign, titled Apple Flavors of the World, CMI Orchards is celebrating not only a few of the top apple brands, like Ambrosia Gold®, KIKU®, Kanzi®, Smitten™, Jazz™, Envy®, and Pacific Rose™, but their homelands, too.
“We’ve assembled a compelling program that gives retailers a destination to display the best performing, hottest branded apples available and drive customer trial,” said George Harter, Vice President of Marketing. “The idea is that retailers can evaluate sales and then build plans for long-term variety improvement. From sweet to tart, crisp, and juicy to delicate and intense, there’s a winning flavor for every customer out there.”
According to a press release, the aforementioned popular apples were originally discovered in orchard locations in Italy, Belgium, Canada, and New Zealand, and are now grown in select orchards in the U.S. To highlight these destinations, CMI’s Apple Flavors of the World promotion includes special signage, in-store displays, high-graphic packaging, and country flags. The campaign also offers special pricing to bolster retail success, drive excitement, and transform the produce aisle into an apple-tourist hot spot.
“This promotion features seven of the top twelve performing branded apples in the USA,” said Harter. “Nielsen scan data for the last 52 weeks of apple sales, ending December 29, 2018, shows the top three ranked branded apples, Ambrosia, Jazz, and Envy, totaled $186 million in sales versus a combined $77 million for all other branded apples in the top twelve combined.”
CMI is also helping retailers by offering them the ability to tailor or customize the Apple Flavors of the World promotion to fit any format, including store sales contests, display contests, and customer events.
“We have all the tools in place to tee up a powerful sales plan for our retail accounts, maximizing the tools included in the promotion,” said Robb Myers, Director of Sales. “We’re offering a turnkey solution that will ultimately expose more consumers to premium branded apples to help retailers pump up sales during the slower spring months.”
Harter added, “Our Apple Flavors of the World promotion is the winning ticket for retailers to capture incremental sales and drive excitement in stores.”
To trip on more produce whimsy and wonder, keep journeying through the latest fresh fruit and veg news with AndNowUKnow.
BERLIN, GERMANY - A year ago, the Migavia Group and United Exports announced their joint venture, at the heart of which was a strategy to speed up the delivery of next-generation OZblu blueberries to end consumers. Recently, the joint venture announced a significant entry into the Northern Hemisphere with Red Sun Farms of Mexico.
“Being able to pivot from precision agriculture in vegetables into a super fruit, is an exciting and absolute privilege for us to conclude this joint venture agreement with OZblu. For us, being part of this family not only fits well with our company DNA, but is a win-win, and we are delighted to be joining this exciting journey together with OZblu," said Thierry Legros, Managing Director, Red Sun Farms.
More than 80 percent of global fresh blueberry consumption is in the Northern Hemisphere, a press release noted. With OZblu growing the new genetics in the Northern Hemisphere, they will now be able to supply the discerning blueberry consumer a consistent and superior product experience all year round.
“This is good news for the entire blueberry category. We strongly believe that if the whole blueberry industry can elevate the consumer eating experience with new varieties of this superfood, it will lead to a transformative uplift and broader consumption for the entire blueberry industry and drive future growth,” explained Roger Horak, Global CEO and Founder of United Exports and Co-Founder of OZblu.
According to a press release, OZblu has helped to redefine the blueberry eating experience, with bigger, crunchier, and more flavorful fruit developed with new leading genetics by Dave and Lease Mazzardis.
“Too often consumers will buy blueberries and be disappointed with them. We have worked hard to create and develop blueberries that are firm, sweet and crunchy, which is how they should taste,” said Dave Mazzardis, Co-Breeder of the OZblu varieties.
The press release noted that Migiva, a diversified agri-group based out of Peru, is no stranger to precision agriculture.
“Being world-class growers ourselves, it is not every day that one is able to connect and partner with a professional and scale grower like Red Sun Farms. Not only do they complete our footprint in Latin America, but they too bring tremendous value in precision agriculture,” said Jonathan Geller, CEO of Migiva Group.
For the latest in fresh produce news, stick with us at AndNowUKnow.
BELLE GLADE, FL - Although I love the stuff, it was the bane of my existence way back when I had braces. I’m talking, of course, about corn—sweet corn, to be exact. What used to be a summertime staple has become a year-round treat. I spoke with Duda Farm Fresh Foods' Sweet Corn Commodity Manager, Bert Barnes, who enlightened me to the growing popularity of sweet corn and the impact of some precarious weather.
“The corn market is currently red hot with moderate supply and high demand,” said Bert. “Market conditions tend to climb this time of year, although this was not the case last year! Supply was extremely heavy with demand being really low.”
As with many crops, Duda’s sweet corn faced some tumultuous weather in its Florida growing regions, with over 6 inches of rain in January, most of which fell over just two days. While the rain and cold impacted harvesting, the more recent cooler temperatures and sunshine have given way to ideal growing conditions. However, the weather did have some impact on price and demand.
“A spike in price occurred after the cool, wet weather slowed growing and all but stopping harvest,” commented Bert, though he added that the overall quality during the growing season has been great.
It’s a good thing that corn crops are going strong, as I don’t know what I would do without my stalk-y snacks, especially now that I’m sans braces. I could wax poetic about my favorite cobbs, but I think it would get a little corny.
AndNowUKnow will keep you posted on all the crop updates you can handle.
WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has imposed sanctions on four produce businesses for failure to pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).
According to a press release from the USDA, the following businesses and individuals are currently restricted from operating in the produce industry:
- JW Produce Inc., operating out of Watsonville, California, for failing to pay a $27,223 award in favor of a California seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Veronica Martinez Vazquez was listed as the officer, director and major stockholder of the business.
- Listo Produce Inc., operating out of Los Angeles, California, for failing to pay a $1,484 award in favor of a California seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Pedro L. Astorga was listed as the officer, director and major stockholder of the business.
- So Fresh Wholesale Corp., operating out of Weston, Florida, for failing to pay a $4,472 award in favor of a Florida seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Mitchel G. Brandfon and Robert Vesco were listed as the officers, directors and/or major stockholders of the business.
- Weng Farms Inc., operating out of Garden City, Georgia, for failing to pay an $84,897 award in favor of an Oregon seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Liya Weng was listed as the officer, director and stockholder of the business.
PACA provides an administrative forum to handle disputes involving produce transactions; this may result in a reparation order being issued that requires damages to be paid by those not meeting their contractual obligations in buying and selling fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables. USDA is required to suspend the license or impose sanctions on an unlicensed business that fails to pay PACA reparations awarded against it as well as impose restrictions against those principals determined to be responsibly connected to the business when the order is issued. Those individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors, or major stockholders, may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee without USDA approval.
The PACA Division, which is in the Fair Trade Practices Program in the Agricultural Marketing Service, regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses that are operating subject to PACA, including buyers, sellers, commission merchants, dealers, and brokers within the fruit and vegetable industry.
In the past three years, USDA resolved approximately 3,350 PACA claims involving more than $63 million. PACA staff also assisted more than 8,000 callers with issues valued at approximately $156 million. These are just two examples of how USDA continues to support the fruit and vegetable industry.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Effective February 18, 2019, SpartanNash will have a new Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer (CMMO). The company announced that it has hired former Albertsons Division President Lori Raya to assume the role of CMMO.
Raya brings thirty-one years of experience in the grocery business to the new role. According to SpartanNash’s press release, Raya’s accomplished career extends over 30 years with Safeway, moving through the ranks from a store associate to store manager, district manager, Vice President of Retail Operations, Group Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, and multiple food category senior management positions. Raya served as the first female divisional president in VON’s 107-year history from 2012-2015 and, most recently, occupied the role of Division President of Albertsons from 2015-2018.
“Lori’s success as a strategic thinker, collaborative influencer, change manager, community contributor, and visionary leader has enabled her to lead marketing and merchandising teams to deliver innovative, customer-focused changes while driving sales and supporting associate development,” noted President and Chief Executive Officer David M. Staples, to whom Raya will report in her new role. “Her career path is also inspiring to all those who love this industry and want to help take the company to the next level. We look forward to having her onboard.”
In her new role as SpartanNash’s CMMO, Raya will be responsible for the development and execution of the enterprise-wide merchandising and marketing strategy, ensuring alignment with the enterprise's overall business strategy, and providing strategic direction to develop, analyze, and implement product assortment, brand positioning, sales planning, pricing, promotion, sourcing, and distribution for independent customers and corporate owned stores.
Raya will direct in-depth research and analysis of consumer trends and sales performance and attempt to drive innovation to enhance the customer experience in-store and online. Raya will also be responsible for increasing sales and market share, improving productivity and profitability, and cultivating an engaged, customer-centric work force.
In the CMMO role, Raya will succeed Larry Pierce who will retire this September. Pierce joined the company in 2008 and has served as Executive Vice President, Merchandising and Marketing, since 2014.
“Larry’s leadership, knowledge of the wholesale and grocery industry, and commitment to innovation have been key to our success,” said Staples, “and we appreciate his assistance throughout this transitional period.”
According to the company Pierce will transition his CMMO duties over to Raya, focusing on special projects until his retirement this summer.
For more retail and foodservice news as it pertains to fresh food, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
FOWLER, CA - California’s domestic citrus season is heating up as cold temperatures continue in the Golden State. And Bee Sweet Citrus is here to meet seasonal demand for specialty varieties like Cara Cara Navels and Blood Oranges—just in time for Valentine’s Day promotions.
“A perfect blend of taste and appeal, Cara Cara Navels and Blood Oranges are perfect for the upcoming Valentine's Day holiday,” said Director of Communications Monique Bienvenue, in a press release. “Both varieties are popular for their bright, colorful flesh and unique flavor profiles.”
Blood Oranges are available now until March, and Cara Cara Navels are available until April.
An increasing popular variety available just in time for Valentine’s Day is the Blood Orange. With it’s blushing rind and bright red flesh, the variety promises to have holiday revelers clamoring for their own Bloody Valentine.
“Blood oranges are as tasty as they are photogenic,” said Bienvenue. “The fruit's unique color comes from the pigment, anthocyanins. Like lycopene, anthocyanins also act as powerful antioxidants, and its berry-like flavor make them perfect for dessert and cocktail recipes.”
The photogenic fruit has unknown origins—though many speculate it traces its roots to the Sicilian countryside. Blood Oranges are generally medium-sized and are pleasantly sweet and a great source of vitamin C and fiber.
Another healthy and striking-looking variety available for Valentine’s Day promotions is the Cara Cara. First discovered in Venezuela in 1976, Cara Cara Navels are the product of a natural phenomenon. While the fruit's exterior looks like that of a Navel orange, its interior boasts a less-acidic, sweet, and raspberry-like flavor.
In its press release, Bee Sweet noted that Cara Cara Navels are perfect both as an everyday snack or as an ingredient for upscale culinary dishes.
“Cara Caras aren't just a delicious citrus variety, they are a nutritional powerhouse,” continued Bienvenue.“The fruit's attractive pink color comes from lycopene, a naturally occurring pigment and powerful antioxidant. Antioxidant rich foods, like Cara Caras, have been known to help reverse skin damage and can help contribute to a healthy immune system.”
In addition to antioxidant properties, the company noted, Cara Cara navels have approximately 20 percent more vitamin C than regular Navel oranges.
For more promotional opportunities in fresh fruit and vegetables, continue reading AndNowUKnow.
CARLISLE, PA - In a move to cement itself as a top-tier retailer, GIANT Food Stores just announced its plans for further expansion into the Philadelphia market, with the opening of three new GIANT Heirloom Market stores, in addition to its most recent store opening in the Graduate Hospital neighborhood. As part of its strategic growth plan, the stores will be opening in the Philadelphia neighborhoods of University City, Northern Liberties, and Queen Village, and will feature a format and assortment of products specially curated for each unique neighborhood.
"GIANT Heirloom Market is the next chapter in our innovative growth story. The response to our first location in Graduate Hospital has exceeded our expectations and we couldn't be more excited about the future of our GIANT Heirloom Market brand," said Nicholas Bertram, President. "Equally as important, today's news also supports GIANT's commitment to the city of Philadelphia and the people who call it home. We can't wait to introduce our GIANT Heirloom Market concept to more of the city's unique and treasured neighborhoods."
All three stores are set to open in 2019 and will create approximately 150 new full- and part-time positions, according to the press release. The three new GIANT Heirloom Market locations are part of an effort to invest in the city’s urban core, as up till now, GIANT’s presence has largely been in the suburbs of the city. The expansion plan was revealed at the company’s 95th anniversary in October of 2018, and the three new stores will bring the total to five locations within the city limits.
"We are always grateful when companies decide to open or expand in Philadelphia, and that is especially true when the business helps provide access to fresh foods for our residents," said Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney. "GIANT has become an integral part of the Philadelphia region, and we're looking forward to the opening of these three new stores across numerous neighborhoods over the next year."
All three locations will feature a range of products and services that are sure to delight shoppers. The stores will offer a wide selection of high-quality, fresh, local, and seasonal foods, everyday essentials, GIANT’s organic brand Nature's Promise®, and a range of convenient grab-and-go meals. The stores will also feature an onsite Produce Chef, who is available to cut fresh fruit and vegetables on demand at a sampling station, to encourage customers to explore new flavors and varieties. As if that wasn’t enough, the stores will have a wide array of plant-based foods, fresh made sushi, local artisanal breads, a do-it-yourself olive oil and vinegar blending station, kombucha on tap, and a curated selection of craft, imported, and domestic beers. Locals will also be treated to offerings from Philadelphia-area food purveyors.
"We're excited to be able to collaborate with our new urban communities to create a store tailored to their specific needs, preferences, and neighborhood flavor," said Bertram. "Finding ways to better serve our neighbors drives everything we do at GIANT."
Will this strategic growth plan pay off for GIANT? Keep reading AndNowUKnow for updates.
GREEN VALLEY, AZ - It is with heavy hearts that Ciruli Brothers announces the passing of Ceva Ann Ciruli, matriarch of both the company and the Ciruli family. Since 1967, Ceva served as a pillar of the southern Arizona community, where she cultivated life-long friendships and devoted her time to family and friends.
According to a press release, Ceva always put others’ needs above her own, and those who had the privilege of knowing her will remember her beautiful and radiant smile and ability to give warmth and joy in abundance. In the late seventies, she volunteered as an EMT with the Tubac Fire Department and most recently devoted spare time to the Santa Cruz County Cowbelles and the Old Mothers Club. Ceva also had a natural affinity for connecting with others, and she enjoyed supporting industry and community events.
Ceva is survived by her children Chuck and Chris and their wives Kimber and Julie, respectively; her loving grandchildren Siena, Sammy, Frankie, Parker, and Ivy; her brother Richard Tucker; her nephew Scott Tucker and niece Tracey Tucker Aslin; her aunt Shirley; the Layton family; and former husband Chuck Ciruli. She is preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Ceva Tucker, and her uncle Bud Layton. She will be greatly missed by her family, many friends, and all the Ciruli Brothers staff.
Services will be held at 3 p.m. on Friday, February 08, 2019, at Valley Presbyterian Church in Green Valley, AZ. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Cruz County, one of Ceva’s favorite charities.
CINCINNATI, OH, and CHICAGO, IL - Even though people still wonder if folks actually want meal kits, Kroger and Home Chef are betting on the fact that consumers definitely do. Introducing retail meal kits to new cities, the retailer is upping the number of stores carrying Home Chef’s kits to an additional 500 stores. On top of that, homechef.com has launched a customizable meal kit feature for online orders, allowing customers to have more flexibility in deciding what they want for dinner. How? By providing consumers the choice to change and upgrade recipe ingredients. Game changer!
“Kroger continues to redefine the customer experience and provide new ways to shop for, prep, and cook meals through exciting brick-and-mortar and digital experiences,” said Robert Clark, Kroger’s Senior Vice President of Merchandising. “Last October, Kroger introduced Home Chef retail meal kits, and now we’re expanding to add the easy-to-prepare recipes to hundreds of new locations, providing convenient access to the meal solution at more than 700 stores. We look forward to the continued growth of Home Chef in 2019 through expansion and new products.”
According to a press release, Home Chef’s fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and simple recipes are sure to knock the socks off any foodie. Each week’s rotating retail menu showcases a variety of meals, including Home Chef Express meal kits that can be prepared in 15 minutes or less! Talk about convenience. Each meal is designed to serve and starts at $8.50 per serving.
“Home Chef is proud to continue our evolution toward becoming more than a meal kit delivery brand,” said Pat Vihtelic, Home Chef's Founder and CEO. “With continued innovation and personalization, we are providing customers with more ways to enjoy fresh, delicious meals that align with their individual tastes.”
Home Chef retail meal kits are currently available in Kroger Family of Stores across multiple markets. The latest expansion is underway; the press release noted that by the end of February, customers can purchase Home Chef retail meal kits in these additional markets:
- Arizona (Fry's and Smith's)
- California (Ralphs)
- Colorado (King Soopers)
- Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming (Smith's)
- Indiana (Kroger)
- Ohio (Kroger, Columbus)
- Oregon and Washington (Fred Meyer and QFC)
- Tennessee (Kroger, Nashville)
- Texas (Kroger)
For the latest in retail news, keep reading AndNowUKnow.