WEST SACRAMENTO, CA - In celebration of Earth Day on April 22, 2024, The Raley’s Companies (TRC) released its Impact Report, detailing insights into how the business continues to grow while focusing on team members, customers, and the community. As part of the report, the retailer announced that it had donated over $3 million to local and regional non-profits between 2022–23.

“Our success relies on healthy, prosperous communities,” said Keith Knopf, President and Chief Executive Officer for The Raley’s Companies. “We remain focused on leading by example. This allegiance fuels our commitment to help our team members, customers, and communities achieve the fullest potential. As a purpose-driven company, we are dedicated to changing the way the world eats one plate at a time.”

The report celebrates and shares The Raley’s Companies’ intentional investment in food access, advocating for good, child welfare, education, and sustainability, a release stated. Important initiatives include Raley’s Food for Families, Community ROOT Gardens, and cultural parades and celebrations, among others, that generate meaningful outcomes by delivering nourishing food and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Some key highlights from the report include:

• $475,000 invested in leadership programs throughout 2022 and 2023
• 42 percent of team members in director-level and higher positions are females, along with 59 percent of Executive Committee members
• Recycled 78.4 million pounds of material during the two years
• Redirected 17.5 million pounds of food from landfills through its food rescue program
• Raised more than $11.5 million to fight hunger through Raley’s Food For Families

“Consistently throughout the years, our organization has remained focused on supporting the communities we serve, especially the food insecure,” said Chelsea Carbahal, Vice President of Community Impact and Public Affairs for The Raley’s Companies. “Financial and in-kind donations represent a significant share of our giving, but we’re also proud of the impact we’re able to make through unique partnerships, strategic donations, and our own nonprofit, Raley’s Food For Families.”

To read more about the report and TRC’s achievements, click here.

For more grocery insights, stay tuned to ANUK.

KEASBEY, NJ - Wakefern Food Corp. has officially teamed up with DoorDash, bringing seven new banners to the grocery delivery site. Through this alliance, customers of ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Fairway Market, Gourmet Garage, and Dearborn Market can order groceries and daily essentials.

“In addition to our own in-house full-service grocery fulfillment offering, DoorDash joins our digital portfolio providing consumers yet another way to shop Wakefern banners. By joining forces with DoorDash, which offers on-demand, fast delivery of grocery staples and household essentials, we can make grocery shopping even more convenient for our shoppers,” said Wakefern President Mike Stigers.

Shoppers can go to DoorDash and find ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Fairway Market, Gourmet Garage, and Dearborn Market as their supermarket retailers for on-demand, fast delivery of groceries, a release stated. Wakefern’s family of banners will each bring unique value to DoorDash with nearly 120,000 new grocery items available for delivery.

DoorDash launched on-demand grocery delivery in 2020. Since then, it has continued to empower grocers with the tools and technology they need to reach new and loyal customers wherever and however they choose to shop. Today, DoorDash has more than 150,000 non-restaurant stores across its Marketplaces and Platform Services globally.

“DoorDash strives to be a modern-day, one-stop shop that offers an efficient way to get everything needed for tomorrow’s breakfast, this weekend’s dinner party, or today’s missing lunch,” said Tom Pickett, Chief Revenue Officer, DoorDash. “Wakefern is one of our most exciting grocery partnerships to date as it not only brings increased selection to DoorDash Marketplace but gives time back to a variety of shoppers—from those looking for budget-friendly value options to specialty shoppers looking for hard-to-find, high-quality foods.”

With this new service available to Wakefern’s banners, this provides greater—and easier—access to fresh produce, which could lead to greater consumption.

To see who DoorDash teams up with next, keep reading AndNowUKnow.

HOUSTON, TX - We can all work together to make this planet a healthier place to live. Sysco is aiming to do just that by taking action to improve the sustainability of product packaging. Earlier this year, the company introduced packaging guidelines to encourage all supplier partners to transition to materials and design principles that will collectively reduce our environmental footprint.

“We only have One Planet, and right now that planet is overwhelmed with plastic and packaging waste. This year’s Earth Day theme of ‘Planet vs. Plastics’ was a perfect opportunity to highlight how we are working with our suppliers and customers to reduce plastics and packaging waste,” said Neil Russell, Chief Administrative Officer.

Sysco’s Earth Plus Brand Agave Straw, for example, is plastic-free, upcycled, and certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI). These straws are commercially compostable in just 90 days, a press release stated. Customers can find this product as part of Sysco’s One Planet. One Table. assortment.

In addition, Fresh Direct, Sysco’s produce business in Great Britain, recently collaborated with one of its suppliers and customers to transition berries to FSC-certified paper packaging, which will eliminate over 50 tons of plastic waste annually. Fresh Direct also introduced new buffet boxes for fresh produce, made from 62 percent recycled cardboard.

“We’re leveraging our position and global scale to make significant, positive shifts in sustainability across the end-to-end food supply chain,” Neil continued. “From working with our suppliers on transitioning to more eco-friendly and innovative packaging to driving demand for sustainable products in our One Planet. One Table. assortment and helping our customers switch to more planet-friendly alternatives.”

In the United States, Sysco has also started to transition its owned brand exterior packaging from traditional white to kraft corrugate cases. During Earth Week, Sysco will host a sustainability summit exclusively for suppliers to discuss how they can drive growth and support customers together by taking action on sustainability.

For more from the press release, click here.

And stick with us at ANUK to stay up to date on all things fresh.

ORLANDO, FL - Who’s ready for Cinco de Mayo? I know the National Mango Board (NMB) is busy prepping the category for nationwide promotions in the lead-up to the holiday. Perhaps most notably, the organization is celebrating peak season with its Cinco de Mango campaign, encouraging consumers to add fresh mango to their dishes to combine rich culture with beloved flavors.

“As we reach the height of the season, we’re hoping to inspire our consumers to find unique ways to incorporate mango into their Cinco de Mayo celebrations and beyond,” said Director of Marketing Dan Spellman. “Our Cinco de Mango campaign is a fun and flavorful opportunity to create buzz around one of summertime’s favorite superfruit, while also educating fans on its health benefits.”

According to a press release, mango is bursting with more than 20 vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, offering a host of health benefits. Known for its versatility, mango pairs perfectly with bold and spicy flavors, making it an ideal addition to any Cinco de Mayo cuisine. Whether enjoyed fresh with Tajín, muddled into a refreshing cocktail like a mango-prickly pear margarita, chopped into zesty salsas, or grilled to perfection for mango tacos, this fruit provides a nutritious enhancement to culinary creations.

To motivate consumers to make mango a centerpiece of their Cinco de Mayo celebrations, the National Mango Board has curated a collection of mouthwatering recipes and festive serving ideas on mango.org. Whether they’re hosting a fiesta with friends or enjoying a quiet meal at home, the National Mango Board encourages consumers to add mango for a touch of tropical flair and irresistible flavor.

Now let’s party!

LOS ANGELES, CA - An executive appointment was recently announced by Progressive Produce. The supplier announced that Dr. Oscar Guzman has been named as the new Vice President of Marketing and Sales. Dr. Guzman has continuously demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation in elevating Progressive's marketing and sales strategies.

In his new role, Dr. Guzman will continue to drive forward Progressive Produce's mission of delivering exceptional quality and value to customers while spearheading innovative marketing and sales initiatives. According to a press release, this will further cement the company's position as a leader in the industry.

Since joining the Progressive Produce family in 2017 as Sales Manager, Dr. Guzman has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have propelled the company's marketing and sales efforts. His visionary approach has led to the redesign of existing brands, the establishment of a robust online presence across various social media platforms, and the development of value-added programs with key customers.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Guzman was appointed Director of Marketing in 2019, where he continued to drive forward-thinking marketing strategies and initiatives. Under his guidance, Progressive Produce has witnessed exponential growth and garnered widespread acclaim within the industry, the release noted.

"There is no doubt that Oscar is just getting started, and I'm excited to see what he does next,” Scott Leimkuhler, Senior VP of Sales and Marketing, remarked. “His unwavering dedication, strategic insight, and commitment to excellence make him the ideal candidate to lead our marketing and sales endeavors as Vice President."

One of Dr. Guzman's most notable achievements has been forming a dynamic and talented marketing team, which has played a pivotal role in executing innovative campaigns and initiatives. Additionally, he has assumed significant sales and management responsibilities, further solidifying his integral role within the organization.

Congratulations to Dr. Oscar Guzman!

KINGSVILLE, ON, CANADA - Today is the day! The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) 2024 Convention and Trade Show is underway, and DelFrescoPure® is getting ready to debut its new DelFrescoPure The Original Cherry Tomatoes on the Vine™ in Canada, celebrating flavor and sustainability.

“CPMA serves as a pivotal platform for DelFrescoPure as we can directly engage with our Canadian customers—both existing and potential customers—and showcase our premium greenhouse-grown produce,” said Ray Mastronardi, Vice President of Sales. “It's also an educational opportunity to walk attendees through the meticulous growing process and showcase our commitment to sustainable and innovative agricultural practices.”

The new offering is grown on the vine and harvested at peak ripeness, ensuring that every bite has the ideal balance of sweetness and acidity that cherry tomatoes are known for, a release stated. Additionally, the tiny globes are a powerhouse of vitamins, particularly vitamins C and K, along with essential minerals like potassium, making them a healthy addition to any meal.

Based on their flavor and freshness, DelFrescoPure The Original Cherry Tomatoes on the Vine are versatile and can be used in many dishes. Their convenient, bite-sized form makes them ideal for on-the-go snacking and incorporating into gourmet creations.

DelFrescoPure will offer The Original Tomatoes on the Vine in a 12 oz clamshell.

Alongside the DelFrescoPure The Original Cherry Tomatoes on the Vine, they will also be bringing their lineup of premium greenhouse-grown produce. Included in this lineup is their Organic Canadian-grown Mini Cucumbers, which are now on their 12-month availability list. The long and lean Euro Bean: The Gourmet Slicing Bean® will also make an appearance.

Check out booth #621 to get a peek at these offerings and more!

WENATCHEE, WA - Here in California, where the AndNowUKnow team is located, April means beautiful spring sunshine and the start of the cherry season! With a glint in their eye, consumers are getting ready to get their hands on their beloved cherries, and Stemilt has the volume and merchandising ideas to keep sales flowing.

“It’s important to have California be a strong kickoff to the cherry season and let consumers know that this seasonal item is available again,” explains Brianna Shales, Marketing Director at Stemilt. “Of course, freshness and quality matter a lot. Cherries are a high dollar driver for the produce department each summer, so driving repeat purchases is key to ensuring sales throughout the year. Take advantage of every promotion opportunity to deliver the best results to your category and produce department sales.”

According to Brianna, promotions are key during peak supply times. Consumers purchase cherries on impulse 75 percent of the time, so having a large display in a high-traffic location in the produce department is essential in capturing sales.

Retailers partnered with Stemilt are in luck because the grower anticipates quality and volume as the season progresses.

“California experienced good bloom conditions and a great cherry set that should lead to strong volumes this season. Most importantly, the crop has great harvest timing for typical retail promotions. Cherry harvest is slated to start by the last week of April. Volume will build in May, and we anticipate a peak starting mid-May. Memorial Day ads are possible, and two subsequent ads in the first two weeks of June will maximize a retailer’s results for California cherries," adds Shales. “We expect high quality throughout the season and will be focused on harvesting at maturity that produces flavors to delight consumers.”

To support its cherry crops, Stemilt has modernized orchards and varieties in California and focuses on delivering the World Famous cherry experience through an optimized harvest, tight cold chain, and quick-to-ship standards. Freshness is key when it comes to cherries, and the supplier has built its program around delivering them so that the retailer and consumer get the benefits of high-quality and fresh cherries.

This season, Stemilt will start in the Westley area of California with Royal varieties before expanding volume as May begins. The grower’s California crop comes from the San Joaquin and Sacramento counties in Westley, Patterson, Tracy, Brentwood, Stockton, Lodi, and the River district.

In addition to Royal varieties, Stemilt also produces Coral, Bing, Brooks, Tulare, Garnet, Lapins, and Rainiers—the yellow cherry.

“Lapins are a special offering at Stemilt and come in our branded 5 River Islands® program, which helps wrap up our California cherry season in late May and early/mid-June. 5 River Islands® was inspired by their locale, the River/Delta region, where a moderate climate helps produce high-quality Lapins,” Brianna notes.

If delicious California cherries need to be added to your produce department, contact a Stemilt representative.

SALISBURY, NC - As Ahold Delhaize USA continues to grow its footprint in the United States retail sector, it has tapped a 22-year grocery industry veteran to join its C-suite. Recently, Kim Lyda was appointed to the role of Chief Legal Officer, where she will work closely with the brands of Ahold Delhaize USA to provide legal counsel and other services.

Lyda most recently served as Senior Vice President of the Business Integrity Group for Retail Business Services, a former Ahold Delhaize USA services company, according to a release. There, she led a diverse team of compliance, government relations, legal affairs, quality assurance, and risk and safety professionals across five locations.

With over two decades of service at Ahold Delhaize USA companies, Lyda has an extensive background in the grocery retail industry. Before joining Ahold Delhaize USA companies, she worked in private practice for seven years and began her career as a Judicial Clerk to Justice Louis B. Meyers of the North Carolina Supreme Court.

In her newest role, she will provide legal counsel, public affairs, risk management, food safety, and compliance to Ahold Delhaize USA brands.

“I have worked with Kim for many years, and she provides excellent legal counsel and is a trusted and dedicated business leader who works tirelessly to help the companies of Ahold Delhaize USA achieve their business goals,” said JJ Fleeman, Chief Executive Officer, Ahold Delhaize USA. “Her impact is evident throughout the company, and we all will benefit from her expertise and guidance in the role of Chief Legal Officer for our U.S. businesses.”

Cheers to Kim Lyda on her appointment!