GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Long-term growth goals are well within reach thanks to SpartanNash’s newest executive. The grocer has named John Taylor as its Vice President and Associate General Counsel, who will join the legal team as SpartanNash seeks new market opportunities.

Taylor joins SpartanNash after nearly a decade of experience at Wolverine Worldwide, where he developed expertise in cybersecurity, indirect procurement, compliance, transactional work, and asset protection. According to a press release, his experience managing complex legal matters and strategic initiatives will be important as the company explores organic and inorganic growth opportunities as part of its strategic master action plan.

The new VP will also advise on governance issues related to securities law and the use of artificial intelligence, supporting SpartanNash's commitment to leading innovation in food solutions.

Taylor earned both his Juris Doctor and an MBA from Michigan State University and an undergraduate degree from Aquinas College.

"John has earned the trust of his peers and clients for his strategic counsel and practical and innovative approach to conflict resolution in a dynamic operating environment. We look forward to the value he will bring to our team of skilled legal professionals as we support the company's growth plans," said Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary Ileana McAlary.

Congratulations to the new executive!

MILLEN, GA - In preparation for what was an incredibly exciting Southern Exposure 2024, the dynamic team of women comprising the Southern Roots committee made a huge impact on the Florida-based organization CASA Pinellas, a certified domestic violence center offering safety, empowerment, and prevention programs to end domestic violence.

“We are privileged to back such an essential cause and pledge to create a positive impact not just for women in our field but also within our surrounding communities,” shared Kim Andreason, Southern Roots Committee Chair, Jason’s Deli. “Our heartfelt appreciation goes out to all who contributed. The solidarity within our industry and the eagerness to assist those in need truly exemplify its greatness!”

Prior to the eventful Southern Exposure show, Southern Roots committee members coordinated with CASA Pinellas to provide a list of the most crucial items needed by their community which was then compiled into a custom wish list through Amazon. In addition, SEPC made a generous offer to match 100 percent of donations through the Amazon wish list in a monetary contribution directly to CASA Pinellas, a press release explained.

CASA Pinellas received 57 gifted items/bundles of items, in addition to SEPC’s matching donation of $1,139.01.

“We want to express our sincere appreciation for your gift. Through your support of CASA, you are supporting an organization committed to speaking out against domestic violence and helping survivors rebuild their lives. We are so grateful for your generosity,” Lariana Forsythe, Chief Executive Officer of CASA Pinellas, wrote to the Southern Roots committee.

Southern Roots is held at both Southern Exposure and Southern Innovations each year, with a vision of establishing a dynamic culture where every woman feels inspired and empowered and makes a lasting impact to strengthen our industry.

Women in produce are encouraged to add the Southern Roots Women’s Luncheon when registering for Southern Innovations, which will take place September 12-14, 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee.

To read more about Southern Roots’ impactful contribution, click here.

Cheers to this inspiring initiative!

SALINAS, CA - In an industry such as fresh produce, the importance of food safety can never be stressed enough. In pursuit of the highest food safety standards, Markon Cooperative has announced the promotion of John Galvez to Senior Director of Quality Assurance and Food Safety and the hiring of Baha Sadduk as Food Safety Director.

Galvez started with Markon in 2000 when he joined the team as a Quality Assurance Inspector. His dedication and expertise over many years led to his promotion to Quality Assurance Director in 2010, a release explained. Over his 25-year tenure, John has been instrumental in developing Markon's robust inspection practices, fostering strong relationships with our growers, expanding the role of its Markon Quality Assurance Inspectors, and providing educational farm tours to its customers.

In his new role, John will lead the company’s food safety program, represent Markon on all food safety-related matters, and drive its strategic food safety and quality initiatives.

"With his exceptional leadership skills and dedication to driving food safety results, John has consistently demonstrated his ability to exceed expectations and further Markon's position as an industry leader in food safety and quality," said Andy Hamilton, Markon's Chief Executive Officer.

Sadduk joined Markon in October 2023 as the company's Food Safety Director. With over 30 years of experience in the produce industry, his deep understanding of the supply chain from farm to table will further enhance Markon's food safety and quality programs.

He oversees compliance with Markon's 5-Star Food Safety Program standards and ensures all Markon First Crop, Ready-Set-Serve, and Markon Essentials products meet or exceed its stringent food safety standards. Sadduk also interfaces with Markon members, providing them with food safety information and conducting ongoing field research. He reports to John Galvez, Senior Director of Quality Assurance and Food Safety.

"Baha's complete supply chain experience and food safety knowledge are valuable contributions to the Markon team," said Galvez. "I look forward to working together to take the Markon Food Safety Program to the next level."

Hamilton commented on both appointments.

“Both John and Baha have demonstrated outstanding commitment and expertise in the realms of quality assurance and food safety. John set the standard for excellence for over 20 years as the preeminent industry voice through our ‘Boots in the Fields’ program,” he added. “We’ve created a great combination by coupling the strengths of John’s team and his resources with Baha and our industry-leading food safety personnel."

Congratulations to both leaders on their new roles!

YAKIMA, WA - Retailers can expect ample supplies of Pacific Northwest cherries from Superfresh Growers® this season. This is anticipated to be the longest and largest season in the Pacific Northwest region for Superfresh, with cherries expected to be available as early as late May and extending into August.

“Superfresh Growers is proud to uphold our position as the Northwest’s longest and largest cherry crop for the past two seasons. Anticipate nothing less as we gear up for another successful harvest,” said Destiny Nash, Cherry Sales Lead. “The addition of the third packing line last year optimized our turn-around times from orchard to retail partners. With a notable 30 percent increase in production capabilities, we are poised for continued growth and success.”

Superfresh Growers has vast geographical diversity, spanning from the Canadian border down to Hood River, Oregon. This diversity creates an ideal environment for cherry cultivation and helps protect from the curveballs sometimes thrown by Mother Nature. The company leverages this natural advantage to grow cherries of exceptional quality, flavor, and freshness. A press release stated that its orchards, strategically located across a diverse region, benefit from varying microclimates and soil conditions, contributing to the unique characteristics of each cherry variety.

The company’s addition of its third state-of-the-art cherry facility further enhances Superfresh Growers’ ability to deliver the freshest cherries to retailers and consumers alike. All three advanced packing facilities are equipped with cutting-edge technology, ensuring cherries are handled with care throughout the packing process and onto trucks. From rigorous quality checks to efficient packaging processes, every step is optimized to uphold Superfresh’s high standards.

The company’s jumbo lineup, branded as Super Cherry®, boasts the largest cherries on the tree. These offerings are available in both random-weight bags and clamshells. Promoting jumbo-sized fruit alongside your day-to-day program is a proven strategy to increase incremental rings at the register, the release noted.

Retailers and consumers can anticipate a bountiful harvest of cherries characterized by their vibrant color, firmness, and unmatched taste. From classic dark sweet cherries to Rainier, and organic and Super Cherry versions of both, Superfresh Growers' cherry lineup promises a delightful assortment for every preference.

Stay tuned for more cherry updates coming your way.