DELTA, BC - In honor of Farmworker Awareness Week, WINDSET FARMS® celebrates its farmworkers and its over 10-year partnership with the Equitable Food Initiative (EFI).

For over a decade, Windset Farms has worked alongside EFI to build a more transparent, responsible, and people-first approach to greenhouse agriculture. This milestone reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to continuous improvement in worker well-being, food safety, and communication across all levels of the organization.

“Windset is a leader whose commitment to social responsibility shines through in their everyday work,” said LeAnne Ruzzamenti, Director, Marketing & Communications at EFI, in the recent release. “While we come together to celebrate Farmworker Awareness Week, I know that they celebrate the talent behind their products every single day, and I hope their leadership inspires a new industry standard where the hands behind our food are always recognized and respected.”

Since becoming EFI certified in 2015, Windset Farms has achieved several meaningful milestones that highlight the strength of this partnership:

• A 98% annual return rate for guest workers, reflecting strong trust, satisfaction, and workplace culture
• 70 team members trained through EFI’s Worker-Manager Collaboration (WMC) program, strengthening communication, problem-solving, and leadership
• Consistent, high-level compliance with EFI’s rigorous certification standards across all audited operations

At the heart of Windset’s achievements is its commitment to a culture that values and empowers farmworkers, as seen through initiatives such as Worker-Manager Collaboration Teams that drive improvements in workplace conditions and operations.

“Everything we do at Windset Farms starts with our people,” said Jeff Madu, Senior Vice President of Operations at Windset Farms. “Our partnership with EFI has helped us build an environment where workers feel valued, supported, and safe. As we recognize Farmworker Awareness Week, we want to thank our teams for their dedication, passion, and the pride they bring to growing high-quality produce every day.”

Over the past decade, Windset Farms has also strengthened its approach to safety and communication by investing in native-language training, encouraging transparent incident reporting, and ensuring leadership engagement at every level. These efforts have helped create a workplace culture rooted in trust, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Looking forward, Windset Farms stays focused on leading responsible agriculture and on furthering its partnership with EFI, with a firm commitment to setting higher standards for farmworker recognition across the fresh produce industry.

SALISBURY, NC - Food Lion will open a new store in Simpsonville, S.C., on March 25, bringing fresh, affordable, and convenient shopping options to neighbors at 2321 W. Georgia Road. This will mark the fifth store in the Simpsonville area, demonstrating the organization’s continued investment in the community. The new store reflects Food Lion’s commitment to an omnichannel shopping experience, making grocery shopping easy, fresh, and affordable for local families through convenient in-store, pickup, and/or delivery options.

Opening the Simpsonville store is part of Food Lion’s continued growth and investment across its footprint. This marks the brand’s fourth new store opening in the first quarter, further strengthening local economies, creating jobs and reducing food insecurity.

Later this year, Food Lion plans additional new store openings and remodels, building on strong performance and its commitment to fresh food at affordable prices.

Customers will experience an easy-to-shop layout, expanded assortment, pickup and home delivery through the Food Lion To Go website or app, as well as a modern décor, all of which is inspired by their feedback. From fresh produce and quality meats to ready-to-eat meals and everyday essentials, this new Food Lion is built to help families nourish their households with confidence and value.

“Simpsonville is a great community, and as someone who has been a store manager for 28 years and has called Simpsonville home for the past 20 years, I’m especially excited to open another store here,” said Mike Strange, Store Manager of the new Simpsonville Food Lion, in the recent release. “Our team is excited to welcome neighbors into a store that’s designed to make shopping easy, fresh and affordable. We look forward to serving our neighbors with a shopping experience they can trust.”

Grand Opening Celebration on March 25

On March 25, the new store will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 7:45 a.m. Afterward, the first 100 customers in line will receive a mystery gift card valued up to $200 and a free reusable shopping bag. The store will be open daily from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. Learn more about specific services the store offers and view the weekly ad flyer.

Good things are in-store for neighbors

The new Simpsonville, S.C., Food Lion offers:

• A wide assortment of products, including ready-to-eat, ready-to-cook and ready-to-heat meal solutions; fresh produce; quality meats; and a variety of organic, gluten-free and plant-based items.
• A walk-in garden cooler, ensuring the freshest produce available, in-store prepared cut fruit, freshly made sushi and a self-service wing and hot favorites bar.
• And more

See the full release here.

TUBAC, AZ - The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) is excited to announce one of the featured sessions for its upcoming Annual Spring Policy Summit on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the Tubac Resort.  Attendees will hear from leading trade experts during the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA) Roundup, a timely discussion focused on the future of North American trade and its implications for fresh produce.

The session is expected to feature Ron LeMaire, President of the Canadian Produce Marketing Association; former Congressman Kevin Brady, and former Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee. The discussion will be moderated by FPAA.

As stakeholders across the produce supply chain prepare for continued policy uncertainty and the eventual review of the USMCA, the session will examine the broader trade environment and what future developments could mean for agricultural trade, market access, and regional competitiveness.

The USMCA Roundup session is one of several discussions planned for this year’s Summit. Additional program highlights include a Keynote Luncheon with CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott (invited); a border infrastructure panel featuring Jesus Valdez, Santa Cruz County Manager, Josh Rubin, Chairman of the Greater Nogales Santa Cruz County Port Authority, and FPAA President Lance Jungmeyer; and a USDA/AMS Listening Session with Steve Eguino, Assistant Branch Chief at USDA Agricultural Marketing Service and Sammy Gonzalez of USDA Market News.  

Additional sessions will address innovations in SPS inspections and the growing conversation around Tariff Rate Quotas (TRQs) and their potential impact on produce trade.

“Trade policy continues to shape the operating environment for our members in very real ways,” said FPAA President Lance Jungmeyer in the recent release. “Bringing together experienced leaders to discuss USMCA and related issues helps ensure our industry is informed, engaged, and prepared for what lies ahead.”

FPAA’s Spring Policy Summit is designed to provide members and stakeholders with direct access to policymakers, regulators, and industry experts while fostering meaningful dialogue around the issues most affecting cross-border produce trade.

A limited number of sponsorship opportunities remain available, including Presenting Sponsor, Policy Session Sponsors, Networking Sponsors, and Advocacy Sponsors.

For sponsorship information, contact Saul Macias at [email protected]. 

FULLERTON, CA - This season, California avocado growers will take center stage in the California Avocado Commission’s Voice of the Grower consumer marketing ads, an evolution of the award-winning What’s Inside a California Avocado campaign. By integrating the voices and the personal experiences of growers into the storytelling narratives established in the 2025 campaign, the Commission will deepen consumers’ desire for premium California avocados and reinforce what makes California avocados special – the local growers who nurture the harvest with great care.

Video and photography for the creative at the heart of the campaign was captured in two local California avocado groves. The featured growers share their families’ stories of multi-generational farming and talk about the sustainable farming practices they use to bring California avocados to market. The authentic voices of these individuals showcase the dedication and pride of California avocado growers and deliver on the transparency and authenticity that California avocado consumers demand.

“These shared personal stories bring key California avocado differentiators to life — locally grown, sustainably farmed, ethically sourced and fresh from the grove — in a trusted, approachable and engaging manner,” said Ken Melban, CAC president, in the recent release.

Geo-targeted ads will be focused on Arizona, California, Colorado, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. These commercials are aimed at Ultra and Mega avocado shoppers who account for 53% of avocado purchases. The campaign launches on April 1 and runs through the end of August across a diverse set of channels in Western markets. Media placements include digital platforms, social media, retailer tagged videos (Connected TV, YouTube, broadcast), out-of-home and retail promotions. By using a combination of engaging storytelling ads, custom recipes and other consumer marketing tactics, the Commission will build awareness of the California avocado season. Additionally, some tactics specifically drive traffic to CaliforniaAvocado.com and its online store locator to help consumers find which retailers are carrying the premium fruit.

Customized support for retailers who merchandise California avocados in season is available as well. CAC offers retailers support that is tailored to fit with their own strategies and programs.

“Providing customized marketing support for retail customers has been a cornerstone of CAC’s promotional program, and this year the Commission is doubling down on these efforts,” said Melban. “We are committed to supporting our partners throughout the California avocado season.”

Customized retailer promotional tactics may include use of California avocado display bins adapted to meet retailer needs, custom signage, digital and social support and other traditional and groundbreaking merchandising programs. To make it easy for consumers to find when and where the fruit is available, consumer ads are combined with a call-to-action to purchase California avocados in season and call outs that identify retailers carrying the fruit. Together these efforts ensure consumers know where to find California avocados and encourage shopping trips that support participating retailers.

KANSAS CITY, KS - Associated Wholesale Grocers, Inc. (AWG) celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2026, marking a century of empowering independent grocers to compete, thrive, and serve their communities. Founded in 1926 when independent retailers united to stand against growing chain stores, AWG has grown into the nation's largest cooperative food wholesaler, serving 1,100 member companies and 3,500 locations throughout 33 states.

The cooperative officially launched its centennial year at its 2026 Innovation Showcase this week, bringing together member retailers, teammates, and vendor partners to commemorate the milestone and look ahead to the next century of partnership.

"Reaching 100 years is rare for any organization, and we don't take it for granted," said Dan Funk, AWG President and CEO, in the recent release. "For a century, the independent retailers in our cooperative have proven that independence doesn't mean going it alone; it means having the strength of partnership behind you. The One Team approach is the principle that still drives everything we do."

Throughout its history, AWG has adapted to serve the changing needs of independent grocers while staying true to its cooperative mission. From its earliest days helping local grocers pool their buying power, to today's sophisticated supply chain operations and comprehensive member support services, the member-owned cooperative has continuously evolved to help independent retailers compete and succeed.

“As a member-owner myself, I see firsthand the profound impact this cooperative has on the families and communities we serve,” said Barry Queen, Chairman of the Board. “AWG was born from a simple, powerful idea: that independent grocers are stronger when they stand together. Reaching this centennial isn’t just a corporate milestone; it’s a celebration of thousands of local entrepreneurs who have persevered and prospered because of the collective power of this cooperative.”

"We've stayed focused on our members' success, invested in our people and partnerships, and proven that the cooperative model delivers real, sustainable competitive advantage for independent retail," Funk added. “Our 100th anniversary honors the people and partnerships who built this cooperative and highlights the strength, innovation, and shared purpose that will carry us into the next century.”

The anniversary celebration recognizes the contributions of AWG's members, the AWG employees who serve them, the vendor partners who supply products, services, solutions, and innovation, and the communities throughout AWG's service area. Throughout 2026, AWG will honor these important stakeholders through various initiatives, including enhanced member programs, teammate recognition efforts, and community service activities.

AWG's centennial year also reinforces the cooperative's commitment to the future of independent grocery. Recent investments in supply chain technology, distribution automation, and member support programs position AWG and its member retailers to meet evolving consumer expectations while maintaining the competitive edge that has defined the cooperative's first century.

"The grocery store of 2026 looks nothing like the grocery store of 1926, but our ability to evolve together as a cooperative has never wavered," said Funk. "We're built for what comes next."

EDMONTON, CANADA - The Little Potato Company, the number one little potato brand in North America, is helping families bring a little happiness to weeknight dinners this spring with a new seasonal campaign and consumer sweepstakes. Designed to inspire quick, easy meals as the days get longer and busier, the integrated campaign includes digital activations, in-store point-of-sale materials, and an online sweepstakes offering exciting prizes for families across the United States and Canada.

“We know spring is a busy time for families, with longer days and packed schedules,” said Heather Jeffares, vice president of marketing at The Little Potato Company, in the recent release. “Our goal is to make mealtime easier while creating little moments of happiness around the table. With quick-to-prepare Little Potatoes and the chance to win an unforgettable family getaway, this campaign is all about helping families enjoy the season together.”

Bring a Little Spring to the Table Sweepstakes

As part of the promotion, one family in the United States and one in Canada will each win a $10,000 travel voucher to use toward a family trip. In addition, ten winners in each country will receive a $1,000 grocery retailer gift card.

Consumers can enter the sweepstakes by visiting the campaign landing page on TheLittleSpringtimeSweeptakes.com or by scanning the QR code featured on campaign creative and in-store displays.

Little Potatoes for Easy Spring Meals

While life gets busier, The Little Potato Company makes spring family meals easier with its line of bagged Little Potatoes and convenient Microwave Ready and Oven or Grill Ready Kits.

• Bagged Little Potatoes, such as Little Yellows and Little Reds, deliver great flavor and can be prepared in minutes using the air fryer, microwave, stovetop, or oven, making them a versatile side dish for busy weeknights.
• For even more convenience, Microwave Ready Little Potato Kits include flavorful seasoning packs families love, including varieties like A Little Hot Honey. Simply place the tray in the microwave, add the seasoning packet, and enjoy a flavorful, family-friendly side dish in minutes.
• For an easy roasted option, A Little Garlic & Parmesan Oven or Grill Ready Little Potato Kits cook in minutes with an added seasoning packet – saving time and effort on weeknight dinners.

Little Potatoes come pre-washed, require no peeling, and are small enough that they don’t need to be cut, helping families spend less time preparing meals and more time enjoying them together.

Consumers can find Little Potatoes in the produce section of retailers nationwide. Visit LittlePotatoes.com to locate a store near you and enter the sweepstakes.

Follow @LittlePotatoCo on social media for recipe inspiration, meal ideas, and updates throughout the spring season.

WATSONVILLE, CA - Driscoll's, the world's leading fresh berry company, launched The Berry Patch Book Club, a free children's storytelling platform that extends the brand's focus on shared moments from the family table into story time. The inaugural collection of four original books for early readers ages 5–6 is available now as free digital downloads on Driscolls.com.

Building on the success of its first children's book, “A Sofia Special” (2023), available with a free read-along video, The Berry Patch Book Club expands into a growing library of original stories. Each story explores themes of imagination, friendship, generosity and discovery, reflecting the everyday moments families share.

The inaugural collection includes:

• "Me & Spot" celebrates the power of imagination, transforming a simple stain into a magical adventure that shows how creativity can turn everyday moments into extraordinary experiences
• "The Last Bee" highlights the importance of teamwork and cooperation, demonstrating how even the smallest helpers need others to bring real sweetness to life
• "Clara's Berries" explores themes of generosity and kindness, showing how life can be sweeter when shared with others
• "The Lost Berries" follows an unexpected adventure that reframes feelings of loss into opportunities to create beautiful new friendships

“The Berry Patch Book Club is another way Driscoll's brings families together," said Ashley Capurro, senior manager of digital marketing at Driscoll's, in the recent release. "These four stories celebrate the joy found in ordinary moments, whether that's reading together, using imagination, or sharing delicious berries. Each book reinforces our belief that life is sweeter when shared with someone special."

The Berry Patch Book Club builds on Driscoll's focus on the moments that bring families together, at the breakfast table, in the kitchen, and at bedtime. Through original stories rooted in imagination and togetherness, the company is creating a collection families can return to over time.

Future releases will continue to grow the collection with new stories centered on family, friendship, imagination and the small moments that make life sweeter.

NOGALES, AZ - A vertically integrated operation, a full lineup of premium greenhouse staples, and an unwavering commitment to social responsibility are the pillars of Divine Flavor’s upcoming Viva Fresh showcase. The producer is taking to this year’s event with a robust greenhouse veg portfolio, including colored bell peppers, mini peppers, Roma and Beefsteak tomatoes, Magnifico grape tomatoes, and long English and Persian cucumbers.

“Now is the perfect time to showcase these items because they represent the consistent, high-quality supply our retail partners rely on year-round,” shares Alán Aguirre Camou, Chief Marketing Officer. “Furthermore, with our expanded warehouse operations in McAllen launching this April, we are positioned better than ever to offer streamlined logistics and fresher arrivals for these specific commodities into the Texas and Midwest markets."

Divine Flavor’s vertical integration and commitment to social responsibility are key hallmarks of the company’s continued success. Being a grower-owned company allows Divine Flavor to maintain strict quality control from seed to shelf and stay on the leading edge by investing heavily in varietal innovation—such as its beloved Magnifico line. The supplier also continues to evolve its infrastructure, with the recent expansion of its McAllen facility serving as a prime example of how the company proactively adapts its logistics to meet the speed and scale required by today’s retail landscape.

As the company continues to accelerate this already strong momentum, Viva Fresh provides a unique platform for growth and connection.

"Viva Fresh bridges the gap between a massive industry expo and an intimate networking event,” Alán continues. “It provides a unique geographic advantage by sitting at the crossroads of the Mexican supply chain and U.S. retail. For Divine Flavor, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to have high-level strategic conversations with our partners in a setting that celebrates the culture and 'Texas vibes' that make this region a cornerstone of the produce world."

For the remainder of 2026, Divine Flavor is focusing on a seamless seasonal transition while maintaining the consistent quality and availability that have long defined its reputation.

The supplier is currently wrapping up its West Mexico season in Sonora and Sinaloa, which will carry it through May and June before shifting its focus to Baja and Central Mexico for summer through winter programs.

“A major highlight for us this April is the start of our Jalisco grape program. Now entering its seventh year, this program is a premier opportunity to bring fresh, high-quality fruit into the U.S. market early,” Alán explains. “We are especially excited to offer premium varieties like AUTUMNCRISP® and Cotton Candy™, which will stretch through May. This creates a perfect bridge into the traditional Sonora table grape season, marking the arrival of the first organic grapes of the year for North American retailers. Regardless of market conditions, our growth strategy remains rooted in delivering these specialty varieties with the reliability our partners expect."

To meet the Divine Flavor team, see its newest packaging, and explore how the company’s new Texas infrastructure can specifically benefit your supply chain, be sure to stop by booth #1100 during this year’s event!

SEATTLE, CA - Growth in this industry is only as strong as the people behind it. This is a concept that Charlie's Produce knows well. From unique varieties to premium retail programs, the operation brings its partners a versatile platform for consumers and a team to back it up. As the company continues to raise its bar, Charlie's Produce has welcomed Jillian Cassius as the operation's new Customer Service Representative (CSR) at its Seattle, Washington, division. Produce has been in her family for decades, so the transition to Charlie's was a natural step.

“Produce is an industry where every year is different; something as simple as a change in weather can have a big impact on how successful a crop is. That constant change keeps things interesting and pushes you to stay adaptable,” Jillian tells me. “As I move forward, I’m excited to keep expanding my knowledge and understanding of the industry. In the future, I also hope to focus more on the sustainability side of produce. With my background in environmental science, I’m interested in how we can continue to grow and supply high-quality produce while also supporting long-term, sustainable farming practices. I am so very grateful to work for a company that provides a great work culture as well as a career path in an industry that aligns well with my beliefs in providing healthy food and supporting local farms.”

In her current position, Jillian works specifically with foodservice customers, most of whom are restaurants, helping to coordinate produce orders for scheduled delivery days and assisting with any questions that may arise. Jillian will also provide information about seasonal availability and help guide them toward the best options we currently have in stock.

This skilled level of support is a strong reflection of Jillian's desire to grow, and making the leap to Charlie's is a big part of that.

“I moved to Seattle and started this position this past summer. My current goal is to gain a full year under my belt, seeing each season,” she shares. “Every season brings different products and locally available produce, so I’m focused on building a strong understanding of those changes. My goal is to develop that knowledge so I’m better prepared to anticipate what customers need as each season comes around again.”

Jillian has entered an industry where her father, Mark Cassius, has built an incredible reputation and legacy. When I ask her what it has been like navigating her own path while also having him as such a valuable resource, she has much to share.

“Growing up in the produce world, I was able to see firsthand the relationships, hard work, and dedication it takes to work in this industry,” Jillian expresses. “My dad built an incredible reputation over the years, and that’s always been something I deeply respect. At the same time, it’s been important for me to carve out my own path and gain my own experiences. I’m grateful for the foundation he’s given me, and I see it as both a responsibility and an opportunity to bring my own perspective to the produce world.”

Congratulations, Jillian, on your new role with Charlie's Produce. We can't wait to see how you carve your path ahead.