BRONX, NY - A new Chief Executive Officer, exciting expansion, and strategic rebrand—what clearer signs of growth could there be? Katzman is eyeing rapid growth as part of its ongoing expansion, welcoming fourth-generation leader Stefanie Katzman to the helm as CEO.

“Our future at Katzman can be summed up in one word, and that’s 'growth,'” said Stefanie. “Through our continued growth, in partnership with our suppliers and customers, Katzman seeks to increase access to fresh, delicious, nutritious produce that drives repeat consumption so we can improve lives through fresh produce.”

As Stefanie Katzman takes on this vital leadership role, the company is rebranding to a family of produce companies, debuting a brand-new logo, look, and feel.

“The rebrand is a result of Katzman’s ongoing expansion,” said Katzman. “Our industry partners will continue to have access to Katzman’s expertise, relationships, and offerings, and with this next chapter, we can provide increased and enhanced services.”

After several years of planning and preparation, the new operation—Katzman Distribution—was launched outside of the Hunts Point Produce Market this past April, according to a press release. Since opening, the company has been servicing retailers in the Northeast out of its first facility in Burlington, New Jersey.

“We saw an opportunity to help independent retailers transform their business through the produce department,” added Katzman.

With a company legacy spanning over 100 years, Katzman’s collective operations include growing, shipping, importing, brokerage, wholesale, distribution, and logistics. It has footprints in multiple facilities throughout New York and New Jersey and extensive reach throughout the Northeast. Katzman Logistics, which includes a fleet of delivery trucks, was also created to ensure quality, control, and timely service throughout the last mile of the supply chain, the release added.

Formerly known as S. Katzman Produce, Katzman Produce will continue to operate out of the Hunts Point Produce Market in Bronx, New York.

With several tactical expansion plays in the works and a new CEO leading the charge, more growth is certainly in store for this burgeoning company! Keep reading ANUK for the latest updates.

BANCROFT, WI - RPE is bringing an advantageous new program to the produce sector. With the debut of its new sweet potato program, the fresh produce supplier is helping its retail partners maximize efficiency while catering to growing market demands.

"Sweet potatoes have shown consistent market growth and profitability, and by introducing Sweet Potatoes Your Way™ along with our comprehensive suite of traditional offerings, we are meeting consumer demand for both convenience and flexibility," said Rachel Atkinson-Leach, Vice President, Brand and Category Excellence. "This program is meticulously designed to optimize shelf space and provide our retail partners with products that meet their customers' needs year-round."

The program is designed to offer year-round availability and includes a variety of packaging options to cater to diverse consumer needs, a press release explained.

Several offerings make up this comprehensive lineup, including:

• Flexible Giro Bag Options: These bags are designed for convenience and flexibility, available in 3, 4, and 5 lb sizes
• Micro Single Packs: Perfect for single servings, these 8 oz packs offer a quick and easy option for consumers on the go
• Steamer Bag: A 1.5 lb bag ideal for health-conscious consumers looking for a fast, healthy side dish
• Bulk Cartons: This 40 lb option caters to bulk purchasers and institutional buyers
• Sweet Potatoes Your Way™: A one-of-a-kind 12 oz micro tray with a Brown Sugar Cinnamon seasoning packet, offering a unique value-added product

The innovative Sweet Potatoes Your Way offering seeks to redefine convenience, delighting consumers with its versatile seasoning options and microwave-ready tray. As the release stated, the petite sweet potatoes come with a thin, tender skin that does not require peeling, making them a perfect fit for a variety of cooking methods—whether microwaved, air-fried, or roasted.

The accompanying Brown Sugar Cinnamon seasoning packet taps into a classic, sweet, and savory flavor that is highly coveted during the fall and winter seasons.

As we enter the prime period for holiday merchandising and other seasonal strategies, this lineup is sure to be a win in the produce department.

More category opportunities are coming to the pages of ANUK, so keep reading!

MONTEREY, CA - Don’t forget to pack a notepad and pencil before heading to this year’s Organic Grower Summit (OGS), set for December 4–5. The organization has announced a comprehensive lineup of expert-led seminars, industry-leading speakers and a special keynote panel, opened by California Secretary of Agriculture Karen Ross. The summit aims to give attendees valuable insights into the evolving organic market, including education on the latest ag tech, soil health innovations, and government regulations.

“This year’s revamped schedule gives Organic Grower Summit attendees a unique chance to connect with industry experts in the field and on the retail side, explore new innovations, and learn how to make their operations more efficient and profitable,” shared Matt Jungmann, National Events Director, Farm Progress.

The OGS seminar program will offer seven sessions exploring topics such as:

• Will ag tech make organic farms more profitable? Features moderator Walt Duflock, Western Growers Association; panelists Bartley Walker, Pacific Ag Rentals; Daniel Bernstein, HawkTower; and Larry Jacobs, Jacobs Farm Del Cabo
• Regenerating soil health with organic practices Features moderator Brise Tencer, Organic Farming Research Foundation; panelists Eric Brennan, USDA Agricultural Research Service; Karen Lowell, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; and Scott Park, Park Farming Organics
• A whole systems approach to managing pests and weeds? A rundown on best practices Features moderator: Vonnie Estes, International Fresh Produce Association; panelist: Eric Morgan, Braga Fresh; Doug Currier, Organic Materials Review Institute; Kim Horton, Taylor Farming; and Gina Colfer, Wilbur Ellis Ag
• Organic, regenerative or both: What does the market want? Grower and retailer point of view Features moderator Eric Morgan, Braga Fresh; panelists Ann Marie Hourigan, Whole Foods Market; La Rhea Pepper, Textile Exchange; Tim Nuss, Nuss Farms; and Thaddeus Barsotti, Capay Organic
• How's SOE going so far? A closer look at USDA's Strengthening Organic Enforcement rule Features panelists Jenny Tucker, National Organic Program; John McKeon, Taylor Farms; Connie Karr, Accredited Certifiers Association; and Merideth Kiser, Heath & Lejeune

The event’s keynote panel will provide insights on the future of organic farming, and features Western Growers Association President and Chief Executive Officer Dave Puglia. The luncheon will also feature the prestigious Grower of the Year Award, presented by Fendt.

To view the full schedule of seminars and to register, click here.

And click back to ANUK daily, so you always know what’s going down in the industry.