LOS ALAMITOS, CA - 40,000 baseball fans watched as Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County recognized Frieda’s Specialty Produce as the Wells Fargo Community Hero.
“As a family-owned and managed company, we value the relationships we have with our community,” Karen Caplan, President and CEO of Frieda’s Specialty Produce, said in a press release. “We have been donating edible but not saleable produce to Second Harvest since the company moved to Orange County more than 20 years ago.”
Frieda’s was presented the title at the Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California, on August 21st. Wells Fargo also made a $1,000 donation to Second Harvest to further support its mission to end hunger.
“It is such an amazing opportunity to be able to highlight our most supportive partnership with Frieda’s, thanks to Wells Fargo and the Angels,” Menna Eshete, Community Relations Coordinator of Second Harvest, commented in the release. “Working with organizations that share our passion in ending hunger creates a stronger team to make what seems like the impossible, possible.”
According to Second Harvest, every dollar donated provides enough food for three meals for the hungry.
“There are so many people who face hunger, right here in our own backyard, and we feel the best way to help is to donate fresh produce that would otherwise go to waste,” Caplan said.
Second Harvest, a member of Feeding America, distributes donated, purchased and prepared foods in 470 locations throughout Orange County through a network of more than 320 community partners. To learn more about its work in the community, or how to join in, go to FeedOC.org.
Congratulations to Frieda’s Produce on this honorable recognition!
SOUTHEASTERN, UNITED STATES - After tearing through the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico over the past week, the effects of Tropical Storm Erika finally made an appearance in the United States last weekend, bringing plenty of rain to states like Florida and South Carolina.
Starting Saturday morning and expected to continue through Tuesday, rain ranging from 2 to over 7 inches has been hitting the U.S.’s southeastern coast. Another 1-2 inches of rain are likely to fall in coastal areas of the Southeast states, with rainfall likely to focus along the West Coast of Florida and the Carolina coast.
"The remnants of Erika will produce spotty flooding over the coastal sections of the southeastern United States as it drifts northward and merges with a non-tropical low-pressure area," AccuWeather Hurricane Expert Dan Kottlowski said.
According to the Weather Channel, both strong winds and local thunderstorms may be a concern, with some communities be warned that flash flooding may still be somewhat of a concern. While the National Weather Service had originally issued a flash flood warning for the state, the organization has since called off the alert.
Rainfall Since Saturday Morning, August 29, 2015, according to AccuWeather:
- Charleston, South Carolina
- 7.39 inches
- Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
- 4.22 inches
- Miami, Florida
- 3.55 inches
- Vero Beach, Florida
- 3.30 inches
- Homestead AFB, Florida
- 2.56 inches
- Savannah, Georgia
- 3.75 inches
Slow-moving thunderstorms along the South Carolina coast on Monday morning resulted in flash flooding near the Charleston area, with reports of water rescues and road closures. The Charleston airport had seen 6.43 inches of rain so far today, the Weather Channel reported at 10 a.m. EST, making it the second wettest August day on record there.
The brunt of the storm, it seems, brought over 24 inches of rainfall in the Dominican Republic, and bands of locally heavy rain to Haiti, Cuba, Jamaica and the Bahamas, and Puerto Rico. The United States being relatively dry in comparison.
Stay tuned as we continue to update you on all relevant weather news.
BELLINGHAM, WA - Haggen responded yesterday morning addressing circulating rumors of the retailer experiencing financial troubles.
“[Haggen] is in regular communication with its suppliers and we fully expect that they will be paid in full,” the company stated in a written response to Morning News Beat (MNB).
This statement came in response to MNB’s inquiries in regards to rumors of sales issues that could lead to cash shortfall that would directly impact the retailer’s ability to pay its suppliers.
“We are working diligently to resolve any outstanding issues related to our supply chain as a result of recent store closings,” the statement continued, adding that Haggen stores are receiving shipments from suppliers, and the flow of goods have been adjusted.
MNB also reported that some members from the supplier community have expressed concerns about Haggen possibly filing bankruptcy, though the retailer did not address the issue in its reply.
The chain experienced a rapid growth spurt earlier this year when it acquired 146 stores formerly under Albertson’s and Safeway banners. As we previously reported, this boosted Haggen from:
- 18 stores to 164 stores.
- 16 pharmacies to 106 pharmacies.
- 2,000 employees to more than 10,000 employees.
- a Pacific Northwest company with locations in Oregon and Washington to a major regional grocery chain with locations in Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada and Arizona.
To meet the regulator’s requirement, Haggen unleashed a plan to open 100 stores in 100 days, leading to a controversial adjustment period that appears to continue.
AndNowUKnow will continue to follow this story as it develops.
CHICAGO, IL - The long-time cat and mouse chase between Monsanto and Syngenta came to an abrupt end early last week, when Monsanto withdrew a $47 billion bid it had offered its European-based competitor. The decision appeared sudden, leaving the question: what’s next for both companies?
Reuters reports that the seed company has previously mentioned other ventures both in addition to or in substitute of Syngenta, including wanting to expand its portfolio of crop-protection chemicals and seed-treatment products.
"If we don't acquire Syngenta, we'll still be on Plan A. But there will be a substitute company," Michael Frank, Vice President of Monsanto's Global Commercial Business, told Reuters. "It won't be Syngenta. It will be somebody else, or somebodies else."
In the official announcement, however, the company declined to say anything more than that it would turn its focus to resuming its two-year, $10 billion share repurchase program and improving its core business, as we previously reported. Though last month, Brett Begemann, President of Monsanto, had told Reuters that there were other acquisition options and that Syngenta was not the only idea in the works.
While Canaccord Genuity analysts speculated to Reuters that Monsanto could turn its focus to furthering agreements in both licensing further molecules and collaborating with partners on joint development of molecular applications, Syngenta remains up for sale.
"Crop chemical assets are undervalued by the market and therefore, any crop chemical asset is attractive," Pauline McPherson, Co-Fund Manager of Kames Capital's Global Equity Fund (holder of Syngenta stock) said, according to the report.
As it stands, there are no clear contenders to replace Monsanto in the bid for the Swiss company, though German-based chemicals group BASF put together a loan package for a prospective bid earlier in the summer from large multinational banks.
While a spokeswoman for BASF spokeswoman told Reuters the company could not comment on the market or other companies last Wednesday, additional sources stated this could have been to prevent the amount of growth Monsanto would see from acquiring Syngenta.
Keep checking in with AndNowUKnow as we continue to follow the latest market and produce industry news.
PUERTO VALLARTA, JALISCO - Last week, AMHPAC hosted its 8th Annual Convention, successfully bringing together nearly 400 members of the industry and over 100 AMHPAC Grower Members.
Members from the Sinaloa, Edo de Mexico, Jalisco, and Guanajuato major regions all came out to join in the fun, informative event that looks to address the changing landscape of the produce industry.
The key terms heard around the show and addressed by panelists were the growth of the organic category in the country, social responsibility in the industry, and better financial tools for growers in Mexico.
All in all, this year’s attendance broke last year’s by more than 160 people.
The event kicked off on Wednesday, August 26th, with produce industry members reuniting and catching up as everyone anticipated the coming events of the two-day experience in beautiful Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
Early Thursday morning, runners met for AMHPAC’s second annual marathons, one a 5K and one a 10K. Later in the morning attendees were treated to an opening ceremony in the Expo Buganvilia Hall in the luxurious Sheraton Buganvilias, after which everyone broke to browse the floor of over 50 exhibitors.
On the educational side, the show brought forth panels to address some of the key successes and focuses of the ever-changing produce industry, and Mexico’s part in that industry.
Seed and Food Systems Expert and Strategist Erica Renaud of Vitalis Organic Seeds moderated the panel on organic culture and contributed a high-level view of the marketplace and market opportunities. During this seminar, key current topics were addressed, including:
- The Mexican government's organic certification process and its efforts to harmonize with the U.S., Canadian, European and Japanese programs.
- Insights into growing organically and things to watch out for.
- Market approaches and what to be aware of when exporting or selling organic products.
Matt Mandel, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at SunFed, was one of the panelists for this segment.
“The AMHPAC convention is a tremendous conference not only for greenhouse producers but for anyone that wants to be in the know of what is happening in Mexican agriculture," Matt tells me. "Some of the best growers in the country coupled with rich, educational panels cover a multitude of important topics to stay at the forefront of the industry. Great people and great networking opportunities abound.”
Among these influential and informative discussions were dinners perfect for networking new connections and touching base with past ones. Among them were almost 20 companies from distributors, marketers, wholesalers, retailers and supermarkets including:
- Del Fresco Produce
- Double Diamond
- Greenhouse Produce Company (GPC)
- Jetro Restaurant Depot
- Lakeside Produce
- Limex Sicar Ltd
- Loblaw
- McAllen Produce
- SunFed
- SUNSET® Mastronardi
- Westmoreland/TopLine
- Wholesum Family Farms
Check out some of the highlights from this year's convention in the video below.
Overall it was an exciting and educational experience packed into a couple of days that flew by. Thank you to AMHPAC for the invitation to attend, and we look forward to the 9th Annual Convention next year!
WEST SACRAMENTO, CA - Raley’s has announced plans for a new, smaller-format store that will be constructed with a focus on fresh foods, health, and wellness.
“Raley’s takes great pride operating our business in one of the richest agricultural hubs in the world. We are excited about what this region represents for the future of food production,” said Raley’s Owner and CEO Michael Teel in a statement. “Raley’s is helping lead the way to a better food system and our new site offers an opportunity to continue that innovation.”
Slated to start construction in mid-2016, the new store is expected to be only 36,000 square feet while the typical Raley’s locations hover around the 50,000 to 75,000 square foot range. The proposed Sacramento, CA store will be the first new location for the company since its Tracy, CA store opened in 2009.
No existing stores are expected to close as a result of the new location, Raley's Director of Relations and Public Affairs, Chelsea Minor, told the Sacramento Business Journal, telling the news source in an email that, "Customers can anticipate the same great quality and variety of products and some new surprises.”
Minor continued by saying the company’s customers had requested a store in the Arden neighborhood of the new site for several years. "We believe this is a great neighborhood,” she said. “It is located within an established community with dense population, we are close to Sacramento State and in a high-traffic area in town.”
According to a press release, the building will be a product of a partnership between Stafford King Wiese Architects and Armstrong Development Properties. Plans are currently being focused on developing a state-of-the-art store with “the most sustainable features.” If all goes according to plan, consumers can expect an opening date in the second quarter of 2017.
Starting and staying with Giumarra Companies while still at college back in 2007 hasn’t kept this marketing force in one place—it’s propelled her forward. With a passion for produce and eclectic interests ranging from music festivals to exotic places, we wanted to know: What are some of her favorite things?
Check out the full article in The Snack magazine by clicking here, or continue reading the full piece below.
Megan Schulz, Marketing & Communications Manager, Giumarra: My Favorite Things
1.) Rio de Janeiro
"Amazing food, gorgeous beach landscape, and fun people."
2.) Krave Jerky
"A great snack for outdoor treks."
3.) Podcast Addict App
"Check out the HBR IdeaCast, Freakonomics, and You Are Not So Smart."
4.) Reformer Pilates
"For a killer burn and incredible core strength."
5.) Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Las Vegas
"Top notch service and luxurious comfort."
6.) El Pollo Loco
"I love how many items have avocados on the menu!"
7.) Bones Restaurant in Atlanta, GA
"The best filet mignon I've ever had in Atlanta!"
8.) Coachella Music and Arts Festival
"The most fun I have all year."
9.) Nature's Partner DulceVida Stonefruit
"Can't wait for everyone to try DulceVida stonefruit this summer!"
MORGAN HILL, CA - Sakata is sponsoring Tour de Fresh rider Brock Nemecek to support his efforts in raising funds for salad bars in schools.
Nemecek will be promoting Sakata’s new Infinite Gold cantaloupe as part of the 300 mile ride. This unique item recently debuted at the PMA Foodservice Conference in July, where attendees sampled recipes that incorporated the intense flavor of the long shelf life cantaloupe in drinks and snacks, according to a press release.
Excited to be riding in his second Tour de Fresh, Nemecek said he will be raising funds for both Martinez School District in northern California and the Irving Independent School District near his home in Dallas, Texas.
“The gratification of finishing a pretty grueling 4-day ride like the Tour de Fresh is topped only by the fact that, as a result of our efforts, thousands of students will benefit from increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables every day at school,” said Nemecek.
Sakata and Nemecek have pledged a goal of $6,000, enough to donate two salad bars to schools. To show your support for Brock, click the link below.
This year’s Tour de Fresh riders will make their way from Hickory, North Carolina all the way to Atlanta, Georgia in time for the PMA Fresh Summit expo in October.
Tour de Fresh is presented by the California Giant Foundation. The goal of the Tour de Fresh is to raise funds for over 100 new salad bars for school districts across the country in conjunction with the Let’s Move Salad Bars to Schools campaign.
UNITED STATES - Who’s up for some friendly Friday competition?
If you think you’re a tomato expert, now’s the chance to prove it. Click the link below to test your knowledge!
Recently published by the Washington Post, this short, educational quiz compiles questions from throughout tomato history including its native location and even the origins of the word “tomato.”
While we’re all down for some peaceful intra-office rivalry, just take care not to end up looking like you just came from the La Tomatina festival in case the competition gets too fierce.
If you've got a few minutes to spare, try taking the quiz and learn a bit more about this versatile, flavorful produce item.
What was your score? Let us know by emailing [email protected]!
VENTURA, CA - LINKFRESH continues to enhance the shipping process of the produce industry with its latest releases. Ron Myers, Executive Vice President, took the time to share with me the advantages of the company’s newest products.
“We have enhanced functionality for traceability and food safety,” Ron tells me, explaining that LINKFRESH just released both its Enterprise product as well as its new Dynamic NAV.
Ron also explained to me that LINKFRESH is certified for Microsoft Dynamics, meaning that it is a produce-focused solution that has met Microsoft’s highest accreditation available for partner solutions.
According to ArecherPoint, this means that:
- The product is Dynamics specific (either ERP, CRM).
- The solution has been tested for integration with the product it is intended to work with.
- The product has been used and is recommended by end users, the Independent Software Vendor’s (ISV) customers.
- It is professionally implemented and systematically supported by the ISV or certified resellers of the ISV.
To see my entire video interview with Ron, check out the 35 second video above.