LA JOLLA, CA - The Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC), through its flagship brand Avocados from Peru, proudly announced that Stephen J. Barnard and Bob Lucy were honored with the prestigious Global Leadership Award in recognition of their extraordinary contributions to the avocado industry.

The awards were presented on April 8, 2026, during a special dinner held at The Lodge at Torrey Pines in honor of the recipients, the evening prior to the PAC 2026 Annual Membership Meeting.

Stephen Barnard, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Mission Produce, was recognized as a true pioneer who helped transform avocados into a global staple through innovation in ripening, global sourcing, and category development. Over more than four decades, he built Mission Produce into a vertically integrated, billion-dollar business spanning more than 25 countries. His early and visionary investment in Peru helped establish the country as a leading global supplier, including founding the largest avocado packing operation in the world in Peru and becoming one of the largest avocado growers in the country. A bold and forward-thinking leader guided by his philosophy to “play offense” and “not be afraid to lose,” Barnard’s impact extended across the entire value chain and through his industry leadership, including service on the board of the International Fresh Produce Association.

Bob Lucy, co-founder of Del Rey Avocado Company, was honored for his nearly five decades of leadership and service to the avocado industry. A respected pioneer, Lucy played a key role in shaping the U.S. avocado market and expanding the global presence of the category. He served for many years as Chairman of the Peruvian Avocado Commission’s Marketing Committee and as a member of its Board of Directors, helping guide strategic growth initiatives and strengthen the positioning of Peruvian avocados in the U.S. market. His broader industry contributions included leadership roles with the California Avocado Commission and other international organizations.

“These awards recognized not only remarkable individual achievement, but also the spirit of vision, innovation, and partnership that drives our industry forward,” said Xavier Equihua, President & CEO of PAC, in the recent release.

“Through our Global Leadership Award, the Peruvian Avocado Commission is proud to be the only organization in the avocado category that honors leaders whose vision and contributions have advanced both the global avocado industry and the growth of Peru as a leading origin,” said PAC Chairman Jose Antonio Castro. “Stephen and Bob exemplify the leadership, commitment, and long-term vision that continue to elevate our industry worldwide.”

The Global Leadership Award represents the highest level of recognition by Avocados from Peru, honoring individuals whose vision, commitment, and impact have helped shape the future of the global avocado industry.

LOS ANGELES, CA - In addition to its impressive table grape and avocado portfolio, Giumarra Companies continues to stand out on produce shelves with its branded programs: DulceVida™ nectarines and SugarWild™ blackberries. These exclusive programs will be a key feature of the company’s Viva Fresh showcase as the supplier highlights a variety of multi-category opportunities.

With DulceVida set to begin shipping in June, Viva Fresh comes at a perfect time to highlight this premium lineup.

“Available in both white and yellow flesh varieties, DulceVida delivers a premium eating experience supported by colorful, high-impact packaging and merchandising,” Kristina Lorusso, Vice President, Retail Partner Services, shares. “Offered in high-graphic, grab-and-go bags or bulk with designated unique PLUs, this program elevates retailers’ summer sets and drives value in the stonefruit category.”

Complementing this high-quality offering, Giumarra Companies’ proprietary branded blackberry program, SugarWild™, has already gained traction across several major U.S. retailers.

“While our inaugural season out of Mexico wraps up in May, Viva Fresh provides the ideal timeframe to build early momentum for fall, when the program resumes shipping in October,” Kristina adds. “Particularly, Jumbo SugarWild™—the first jumbo blackberry offering of its kind—has caught the attention of customers and consumers alike. We look forward to expanding the SugarWild line next season.”

But wait, that’s not all Giumarra Companies has in store for its partners! The company’s Mexican grape season will begin shipping in May, with increased volumes on all three colors. This increased Mexico supply will lead the supplier into the California season.

The company also continues to offer a robust, 52-week avocado portfolio, offering both certified organic and conventional avocados from all countries of origin.

“Our sales team is eager to support customers with value-added options, such as ripening and bagging, in the avocado category,” Kristina tells me. “The Giumarra Companies combines scale with agility, enabling us to deliver comprehensive, 52-week programs across key categories while remaining highly responsive to our customers’ unique and evolving needs. Our global sourcing capabilities allow us to provide consistent supply, quality, and service. At the same time, our investment in exclusive branded programs—such as DulceVida nectarines and SugarWild blackberries—brings meaningful differentiation to the produce department, helping retailers drive both excitement and value.”

This year, Giumarra Companies is focused on significantly expanding its volume in several of its core categories, creating more opportunities for its partners.

“We find Viva Fresh to be an excellent show taking place at the perfect timeframe just ahead of summer selling season,” Kristina concludes. “We’re looking forward to connecting with retailers in a welcoming atmosphere during a pivotal planning window as they finalize their assortments, promotions, and merchandising strategies. The relaxed setting creates space for in-depth discussions and new collaborations.”

The Giumarra Companies team and its expansive fresh fruit portfolio can be found at booth #212 during this year’s Viva Fresh. For more show insights, stick around to ANUK!