PITTSBURGH, PA - The Fresh Market, a leading specialty grocer, opened its newest store Wednesday at 5880 Centre Avenue in Pittsburgh. The new store features an expansive footprint featuring a restaurant and bar concept to complement the brand’s already exceptional guest experience.

Guests in attendance experienced a traditional The Fresh Market opening day complete with a ribbon-cutting, a $5,000 donation to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, plus giveaways and sampling throughout the store.

“We are excited to share this store with our new guests in Pittsburgh,” said Brian Johnson, CEO of The Fresh Marketm in the recent release. “The Fresh Market shopping experience is unlike any other, and we’re proud to over something for everyone—exceptional quality, everyday value, and real choice. From specialty items and the freshest produce to ready-to-enjoy meals and local favorites, our goal is to help guests make every day eating extraordinary, whether it’s their weekly or daily shop, a special occasion, or an easy, affordable dinner tonight.”

New Store Highlights

In addition to the restaurant and bar concept, the 32,289 square-foot store features an elevated assortment designed to inspire guests, including an extensive meat and seafood selections, nationally recognized bakery and produce departments, and a carefully curated selection of global products and seasonal features.

WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has filed an administrative complaint against A. Garcia Produce 2 LLC. The company, operating from Georgia, allegedly failed to make prompt payment to 14 produce sellers in the amount of $556,941 from December 2023 through April 2025, in violation of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).

A. Garcia Produce 2 LLC will have an opportunity to request a hearing. Should USDA find that the company committed repeated and flagrant violations, it would be barred from the produce industry as a licensee for three years, or two years with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond. Furthermore, its principals could not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee for two years, or one year with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond.

For more information, contact the Investigative Enforcement Branch, at (202) 720-6873 or [email protected].

PERRIS, CA - The Fresh Produce & Floral Council (FPFC) Educational Foundation is proud to announce its 2026 Apprentice Class, continuing its longstanding commitment to cultivating the next generation of leaders in the fresh produce and floral industries.

The FPFC Apprentice Program is designed to provide emerging professionals with meaningful access to education, mentorship, and networking opportunities across the supply chain. By bringing together individuals from diverse roles—ranging from sales and marketing to procurement and analytics—the program fosters a deeper understanding of the industry while strengthening relationships that are critical to long-term success.

The 2026 class represents a dynamic cross-section of the industry, including participants from leading companies such as Oppy, Frieda’s, Fowler Packing Company, Progressive Produce, Westlake Produce, Category Partners, and more. These apprentices hold roles spanning sales, marketing, buying, and data analysis, underscoring the program’s mission to connect all facets of the produce ecosystem.

“The FPFC Apprentice Program exists to bridge gaps—between companies, between roles, and between generations,” said Matthew Hayes, Director of Program and Events at FPFC, in the recent release. “Our goal is to create meaningful connections that not only support individual career growth but also strengthen the industry as a whole.”

The program’s purpose extends beyond professional development. It serves as a vital pipeline for industry engagement, ensuring that young professionals are equipped with both the technical knowledge and the relationship-building skills necessary to navigate an increasingly complex supply chain. Through curated events, educational sessions, and direct exposure to industry leaders, apprentices gain insight into the challenges and opportunities shaping fresh produce today.

“Our industry thrives on relationships,” Hayes added. “By connecting emerging leaders with established professionals, we’re building a stronger, more collaborative future for fresh produce and floral.”

The FPFC Educational Foundation continues to invest in initiatives like the Apprentice Program to support workforce development and industry continuity. The 2026 class exemplifies the organization’s commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and leadership cultivation.

• Alexandra Grillo with CMC Sales & Marketing
• Brenan Allen Ball with FirstFruits Marketing
• Diego Ureta with Hampton Farms
• Gavin Wright with Category Partners
• Lauren Mora with Frieda’s
• Matthew Ratto with Ratto Bros., Inc.
• Ashley Patrick with Westlake Produce Co.
• Cassidie Banish with Fowler Packing Company
• Elliot Talley with Talley Farms
• Janna Katherine Stava with Progressive Produce
• Madie Johnson with Oppy
• Pablo Merienne Perez with Anye Produce Inc.