NEW YORK - Dollar Tree is taking critical steps to improve its financial performance and geographical footprint, unveiling plans to close nearly 1,000 stores across its popular Family Dollar banner.

“Persistent inflation and reduced government benefits continue to pressure the lower-income consumers that comprise a sizable portion of Family Dollar’s customer base,” noted Chief Executive Officer Rick Dreiling on a recent call with analysts.

As reported by CNN, Family Dollar is set to close a total of 600 locations this year, and 370 over the next several years as the leases expire. Dollar Tree will also close 30 of its banners as leases expire.

Family Dollar currently has around 8,000 stores across the United States, with the closure of these nearly 1,000 locations improving the company’s overall profitability. In recent years, the chain has closed hundreds of Family Dollar stores.

Dollar Tree purchased Family Dollar for $8.5 billion in 2015, according to the source, aiming to grow its customer base and reduce costs while elevating its standing among other discount retail chains such as Dollar General.

We will keep an eye on this evolving retail footprint, so be on the lookout for our next update.

RIDGE SPRING, SC - Early access to fresh peaches is coming down the pipeline this season. Titan Farms recently announced a strategic collaboration with the Borquez family to provide some of the first peaches harvested in the Northern Hemisphere. The partnership will not only lengthen Titan Farms' peach season but also offer consumers a wider range of high-quality peaches.

"This collaboration with the Borquez family marks a significant milestone for Titan Farms as we strive to meet consumer demand for fresh, delicious peaches through an extended season," said Chalmers Carr, President and Chief Executive Officer of Titan Farms. "With early access to the market and our commitment to quality, we are excited to continue delivering the finest peaches to our customers."

The Borquez family has cultivated a legacy of multi-generational farming expertise, renowned for their commitment to growing and packing exceptional peaches with unparalleled flavor profiles and quality. This groundbreaking partnership not only underscores Titan Farms' commitment to quality produce, but also introduces exclusive peaches from the unique microclimate and soils of Caborca, Sonora, Mexico.

By offering peaches from Mexico, Titan Farms gains a competitive edge in the market by providing early access to fresh, flavorful peaches. The Borquez family predominantly grows United States varieties, ensuring consumers can enjoy peaches with consistently high flavor profiles at competitive pricing.

Peach lovers can look forward to enjoying the same exceptional quality and taste they've come to expect from Titan Farms. According to a press release, this partnership reinforces Titan Farms’ position as a leader in the industry, dedicated to providing premium produce to consumers nationwide. The peaches from Oasis Farms and the Borquez family will be available in various pack styles, including:

• 18 lb 2-Layer Tray
• 2 lb bag – Master Pack: 10/2
• 3 lb Clamshell – Master Pack: 6/3
• 20 lb Volume Fill

For more seasonal updates in the stonefruit category and beyond, keep a tab open for ANUK.

CORAL GABLES, FL - Fresh produce may very well steal the show at the upcoming Miami Open Tennis Tournament. As a gold-level sponsor for the event, taking place March 17–31, Fresh Del Monte Produce will be the only produce brand of the 30 total sponsors.

“The Miami Open is a perfect opportunity for Fresh Del Monte to connect with healthy eating fans right here in south Florida and provide fun brand touchpoints that encourage people to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Melissa Mackay, Vice President of Marketing, North America. “Attendees at each match will be able to enjoy our innovative lineup of sweet, delicious pineapples, along with fresh-cut fruit products that offer a convenient, refreshing snack. We are proud to be an official sponsor of the Miami Open and look forward to supporting this event.”

Fresh Del Monte aims to broaden and enrich the fan experience at the Miami Open by making its fresh-cut and whole fruit and vegetable products available for purchase and including interactive ways to engage with the brand during matches.

Between matches, Fresh Del Monte will take over the stadium’s video boards, spotlighting select fans who will have the opportunity to scan an on-screen QR code for a chance to win seat upgrades. According to a press release, fans will also be able to engage with Fresh Del Monte on the brand’s social media pages for additional entry opportunities.

The 2024 Miami Open Tennis Tournament will be held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, and feature nearly 200 of the sport’s top tennis players competing as part of the ATP Masters events. The Miami Open has been held annually since 1985 and draws an attendance of nearly 390,000 people over the course of 10 days. To learn more, click here.

Let the match begin!

SALINAS, CA - A tenured leader with experience in agricultural and beverage operations management is stepping up to drive further growth for Markon Cooperative. The foodservice distributor announced that seasoned senior executive Brian Jameson joined its team as Multi-Unit Accounts Manager.

Jameson will now lead Markon’s multi-unit sales team, which supports its member distributors in developing and deploying cohesive produce programs that include three brands: Ready-Set-Serve, Markon First Crop, and Markon Essentials.

As a press release noted, the industry vet wields over 27 years of experience in produce, most recently serving as Vice President of Fresh Procurement at Calavo Growers, where he managed global sourcing, reduced costs, and oversaw international logistics. Before working with the global avocado operation, Jameson also held various leadership positions with companies such as Starbucks, Church Brothers Farms, Danaco Solutions, Ready Pac, Fresh Express, and Dole Fresh Vegetables. He has also served on United Fresh's Board of Directors.

In his new role, Jameson will report directly to Markon Chief Executive Officer Andy Hamilton.

“Markon is confident that Brian’s comprehensive industry experience will be a huge asset to our Multi-Unit Accounts department and the company as a whole,” commented Hamilton. “We look forward to exceeding benchmarks, partnering with more multi-unit foodservice restaurants, and getting more fresh produce onto plates with the addition of him to our team.”

Congratulations to Brian Jameson on his distinguished new title!

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