BAKERSFIELD, CA - Grimmway Produce Group (GPG) announced the expansion of its operation into Minnesota following the close of an asset acquisition of the Fresha facility in Morris, MN.

Founded in 2019, Fresha’s partnership with GPG has developed successfully over the past few growing seasons through consistent collaboration and results. This next step helps secure a reliable year-round carrot supply, especially from a region known for high-quality crops. It also expands the growing regions used, improves resilience during unpredictable weather, and further diversifies GPG’s supply areas.

“This expansion shows our commitment to delivering steady value from the field all the way to our customers and the families they serve,” said GPG President and CEO Jeff Huckaby in a press release. “By securing supply, growing in more regions, and processing closer to store shelves, we’re improving reliability, speed, and freshness. It’s a practical step that keeps us strong and growing for the long haul.”

“Fresha built the business with a true growers-first philosophy and strengthened it year after year,” shared GPG Carrot Category President Eric Proffitt. “After working closely together for more than three seasons, this step is a natural progression of our partnership. Most importantly, the trusted growers supplying the facility with high-quality carrots today will continue to play a central role for many years to come.”

Grimmway Produce Group made offers of employment to the existing facility team and looks forward to a productive transition for customers and employees alike.

ELGIN, MN - Honeybear Brands, a leading grower, marketer, and developer of premium conventional and organic apples, pears, and cherries, is bringing fresh energy to spring sets with their exclusive Pazazz® Apple variety as retailers seek a great-tasting, quality apple that satisfies discriminating consumers. With the Honeycrisp market tightening, shoppers will enjoy the bold, juicy flavor of Pazazz at an affordable price.

"Pazazz is popular for a reason. It has that perfect balance of tangy and sweet – firm and crisp with an explosive crunch. Its bright red color pops off the produce shelf. Plus, it’s a smart move for retailers. Pazazz’s exceptional storage capabilities provide increasingly improved flavor for shoppers seeking a fresh, delicious-tasting apple this Spring," says Chuck Sinks, president of sales, Honeybear Brands.

Pazazz keeps great apple flavor on shelves long after many varieties fade. Thanks to Honeybear Brands’ growing and packing operations in Washington, the Midwest, New York, and Canada, retailers benefit from apples grown closer to home – packed to order and delivered with shorter travel times for consistent, year-round freshness.

According to a press release, retailers can take advantage of in-store and digital assets that promote Pazazz not only as a source of rich fiber, but tie in the mental health benefits of eating an apple a day.

“With April being National Stress Awareness month and May focused on Mental Health Awareness, coordinated efforts that promote Pazazz as good mood food can help fuel sales. Our network of influencers and geo-targeted social media campaign will carry the message as well,” says Kristi Harris, brand manager, Honeybear Brands.

YAKIMA, WA - From a high-quality portfolio of fruit available year-round to state-of-the-art logistics services and data insights, Superfresh Growers® remains committed to supporting its retail partners on all fronts. Showcasing its strengths in apples, cherries, and organics, the supplier recently offered a closer look at the advantages sparked by its robust programs.

“We’re super excited about this upcoming summer," Keegan Morford, Director of Apple Sales, shared with AndNowUKnow. “We're going to finish off apple season on a strong note with promotable volume on Granny Smith.”

One of Superfresh Growers’ key advantages as a supply-side partner is the promise of a one-stop shop.

“We have it from the ground up. We have our farming down in Yakima Valley and other spots of Washington State as well, all the way down to Oregon,” Keegan explains. “We have a logistics company that'll get it from start to finish. Anything you need, from delivered product or anything that you want to load off our dock, we're more than happy to do that.”

More insights into Superfresh Growers’ impressive portfolio can be found in our exclusive video above!

WASHINGTON, DC - Fresh departments have become the front line for independent grocers looking to grow, differentiate, and strengthen their connection to shoppers. Several years ago, the National Grocers Association (NGA) launched its Fresh Summit to highlight fresh as a core business strategy, bringing together retailers, suppliers, and industry experts to explore how the perimeter can drive performance across the entire store. This year, the NGA Fresh Summit heads to St. Louis, Missouri, June 15–17.

“At this one-of-a-kind event, independent operators share practical insights on merchandising, labor, sourcing, and execution,” David Cutler, Vice President of Media Relations and Public Affairs, stated. “Rather than treating fresh as a collection of isolated categories, conversations about fresh foods are framed as an integrated system. Produce, meat, seafood, deli, and bakery are discussed alongside staffing models, store design, and operational efficiency. The takeaways are simple: Fresh works best when it is intentional, well-managed, and closely aligned with customer expectations.”

At last year’s Fresh Summit in Milwaukee, the conversation expanded to include innovation and adaptability. Independent grocers are navigating rising costs, shifting consumer habits, and growing competition, while still being expected to deliver quality and value. Sessions focused on how data-driven decision making, smarter technology adoption, and creative merchandising can help level the playing field. Store tours and peer exchanges reinforced that while no two independents operate exactly alike, the most successful retailers share a willingness to learn, experiment, and refine.

These themes set the stage for the 2026 NGA Fresh Summit, which will build on the momentum of previous years. The upcoming Summit will offer a deeper dive into the strategies and tools independent grocers need to win in fresh, with programming designed to deliver real-world takeaways rather than theory.

“As shoppers continue to prioritize freshness, transparency, and locally sourced products, independent grocers remain uniquely positioned to meet those demands. Their agility, community ties, and firsthand understanding of customer preferences give them an edge that cannot be easily replicated,” David continued. “The 2026 NGA Fresh Summit will serve as a space to sharpen that advantage, bringing the industry together to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and chart a course for the future. For independent grocers, fresh is no longer just a department. It is a defining element of who they are and how they compete.”

Industry partners looking to become more involved in this unique event can contact Anita Nunez Cepollaro at [email protected].

For more event updates as the show approaches, keep coming back to AndNowUKnow.

ROSEMONT, IL - US Foods Holding Corp., one of America's largest foodservice distributors, announced the launch of Spring 2026 Scoop, featuring 19 US Foods Exclusive Brands products designed to help operators attract and retain diners and deliver profit-boosting benefits, such as back-of-house labor savings and menu versatility across dishes and dayparts. In Spring Scoop, US Foods is peeling back the curtain on how the company achieves the highest level of product quality, enabling the consistency operators require to confidently integrate new offerings onto their menus.

A recent US Foods survey of national independent foodservice operators found that product quality and product cost remain the top factors influencing new product purchases. In addition, more than 60% of operators reported Scoop products sell as well or better than other menu items, and a majority of respondents credited Scoop products with giving them a competitive edge.

“When we asked operators what quality means to them, the word consistency rose to the top,” said Stacey Kinkaid, vice president of product development and innovation at US Foods. “Operators seek tried and trusted new products they can depend on, and we’re able to deliver on this need through our persistent pursuit of excellence – years of researching trends and flavors on the rise, understanding what diners want now and in the future, sourcing the best ingredients, and working with the best partners. This persistence is the foundation of Scoop. Scoop products reflect our commitment to helping our customers boost profits and stay ahead of the curve, and our core belief that high quality is only achieved through perfecting items that are big on flavor, helps save time back-of-house and offer enhanced versatility.”

Restaurant operators face a slate of priorities: they need products that deliver exceptional quality and consistency while managing elevated food and labor costs, the two top challenges cited in the 2026 National Restaurant Association State of the Restaurant Industry Report. According to a press release, Spring Scoop addresses these challenges head-on, featuring products that combine the high quality and consistency operators demand with built-in operational efficiencies such as labor-saving cooking methods and menu versatility that help drive profitability without compromising on excellence.

Spring 2026 Scoop highlights include:

• Molly's Kitchen® Dill Pickle Cream Cheese Bombs: The bold, nostalgic appeal of dill pickle continues to captivate diners, and now operators have the perfect vehicle to capitalize on this trend. These tangy, creamy and crunchy bites combine real cream cheese with a vibrant mix of dill pickles and garlic—delivering comfort food with an unexpected twist that can be used as an appetizer or side dish. Ready-to-fry from the freezer with no prep work.
• Chef's Line® Crispy Carrot Fries: Picked at peak freshness in France, these vibrant, naturally sweet carrot fries offer a colorful alternative to traditional potato options. Lightly battered, they're equally delicious deep-fried for maximum crunch, or baked for a lighter preparation. Requiring no prep and offering simple ingredients not found on the US Foods Unpronounceables List® 1, these fries help meet the rising demand for plant-forward sides or appetizers without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Devonshire® Dubai-Style Chocolate Torte: Jumping on the Dubai chocolate trend has never been easier. Layered with a chocolate graham crust, velvety ganache, and a crunchy pistachio-and-kataifi center, each pre-portioned slice delivers the salty-sweet-crunchy trifecta diners crave. Each case represents 120 minutes of labor savings compared to creating the item from scratch. The striking green swirl creates a visual impact that photographs beautifully on social media, helping turn every dessert course into a marketing moment.
• Patuxent Farms® Smoked Black Forest Bacon Sausage: Each fully cooked link contains 30% bacon pieces of the fan-favorite US Foods Patuxent Farms® Smoked Black Forest Bacon. Capturing the sweet, smoky, umami-rich flavor from the bacon, this unique Black Forest flavor profile offers an unexpected upgrade to the typical sausage or brat. These ready-to-heat links can be served on a breakfast platter, tucked into a Chef’s Line ® Butter Brioche Hot Dog Bun and topped with caramelized sliced onions, or served as a main course over a soft polenta.
• Patuxent Farms® Gluten-Free Shatter Crisp Breaded Jumbo Chicken Wings: Seeking fresh ways to innovate fried chicken, the product development team conducted worldwide research to bring to market the ideal crispy, shattering crunch of Korean-style fried chicken with a unique rice-based breading and double-frying technique. Korean fried chicken is predicted to grow 58.2% on U.S. menus by 2029, 2 making this Scoop offering the perfect opportunity for operators to get ahead of the trend. Fully cooked, marinated, and coated with a rice-based breading, these certified gluten-free jumbo-cut chicken wings are ready to serve after a second fry and can even be tossed in a house sauce or a delicious seasoning blend for a customized approach.
• Chef's Line® All Natural3 Mojo Seasoned Pork Shoulder: Mojo as a trending flavor is up 8.8% over the last year and is predicted to grow another 10.9% over the next four years 2. This item is expertly trimmed and portioned, then braised in a bright, citrusy mojo marinade infused with garlic, orange, lime and fresh Caribbean herbs for a bold Latin-inspired flavor. Six hours of sous vide cooking locks in tenderness and depth, while the portioned format enables quick thawing and easy pulling, saving 45 minutes of labor per case compared to making the item from scratch. From loaded bowls to sandwich builds to rice-and-beans plates, this versatile protein simplifies execution, while elevating menu offerings.

VALENCIA, CA - Mandarins continue to drive growth for the citrus category. In a conversation with Cassie Howard, Senior Director of Category Management and Marketing for Sunkist Growers, we dive into the behaviors driving this growth and what the supplier is doing to capture interest.

“Nearly 42 percent of U.S. households have purchased mandarins so far this season, making it one of the most widely purchased citrus categories. Demand for mandarins continues to be steady, with volume this season ranking as the second-highest level sold at retail over the past five years,” Cassie notes. “However, we are seeing smaller gains than in prior years as consumers remain cautious about expanding their shopping baskets.”

When consumers are cautious about price, value, or quality, they might shift their spending elsewhere. But with the quality of fruit coming off the trees, Sunkist has seen consumers re-engage with the category heading into spring.

“Sunkist Cali™ Mandarins are performing particularly well, as we continue to build brand preference with consumers, with volume up double digits versus last year,” she adds.

Recent research conducted by Sunkist, in partnership with Numerator, also shows that mandarins are a staple in many households. For example, more than 40 percent of shoppers regularly purchase mandarins to keep them on hand, and nearly 60 percent buy them specifically as a snack for themselves or household members.

“While families with children remain an important driver of the category, we’re also seeing mandarins expand among Millennial and Gen Z shoppers who are increasingly looking for healthy, convenient snacks. Programs like our Sunkist Cali Mandarins Snack With a Smile campaign are helping reinforce mandarins as a portable, feel-good option for on-the-go lifestyles,” Cassie says.

With a host of mandarin programs at its back, Sunkist Growers is ready to ride the wave of demand throughout the rest of the season.

Keep reading ANUK as we cover categories across fresh produce.

ONTARIO, CA - Heritage Grocers Group is pleased to announce the appointment of David Hinojosa as its new Chief Executive Officer, following a comprehensive search led by the Board of Directors. Hinojosa will lead Heritage into its next phase of growth, with a continued focus on operational excellence, fresh food leadership, and strengthening the company’s deep connection to the communities it serves. Under Hinojosa’s leadership, Heritage plans to accelerate strategic growth across its banners while continuing to invest in fresh foods, operational excellence, and community-driven retail experiences.

“Over the past several months, the Board set out to identify a leader who brings exceptional industry experience and genuinely reflects the values that define Heritage Grocers Group,” said David Hirz, Chairman of the Board of Heritage Grocers Group. "David’s operational expertise, humble servant-leadership style, and deep experience in Hispanic and community-focused retail is deeply aligned with our commitment to authenticity, freshness and affordability.”

“It is an honor and a privilege to join Heritage Grocers Group,” Hinojosa said. “Heritage’s commitment to serving diverse communities, honoring culture, and delivering exceptional fresh food reflects the values that have guided my career. I look forward to building on the strong foundation already in place while working alongside our talented teams to drive growth, innovation, and meaningful value for the families and communities we proudly serve.”

Hinojosa is an accomplished retail executive with more than three decades of experience across the United States, Australia, and Asia, according to a press release. He began his retail career at age 17 as a part-time night stocker at Walmart while attending Whittier College.

During his senior year, he was recruited by Texas-based H-E-B, where he went on to manage 10 stores and serve in both corporate and regional leadership roles over his 17-year tenure. His career then expanded internationally, first as Executive Vice President of Metcash in Sydney, Australia, and later as Chief Operating Officer of Makro in Bangkok, Thailand. After returning to the United States, he held executive leadership roles at ShopRite in the Northeast before joining Vallarta Supermarkets as Chief Operating Officer in 2023.

Hinojosa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and Finance from Whittier College. He completed Harvard Business School’s General Management Program and the Executive Food Management Program at Cornell University. He also serves on the boards of directors for the Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC) and the Food Industry Association (FMI).

LEAMINGTON, ON - On the heels of a highly coveted recognition at the PAC Global Awards and a successful Southern Exposure showcase, Nature Fresh Farms (NFF) is primed for even more exciting things in 2026. Matt Quiring, Senior Vice President, Brand, Products and Marketing, recently took a moment to discuss the greenhouse grower’s SEPC experience and the tactical growth on the horizon.

For those who might have missed the show, can you tell us a little bit about Nature Fresh Farms’ Southern Exposure showcase?

“At SEPC, where we proudly served as a Harvest Level Sponsor, we showcased our Greenhouse Clean™ portfolio, which included two standout premium products: Devours™ Grape Tomatoes and Hiiros™ Cherry Tomatoes on the Vine.

Devours invited attendees to ‘grab sweet flavor by the handful’ with its irresistible flavor and bold packaging that commands attention.

Hiiros is an exclusive Nature Fresh Farms innovation originally bred for the Japanese market, where exceptional produce is regarded as a gift of honor. Vine-ripened for peak freshness, Hiiros delivers a depth of award-winning umami flavor unlike any other tomato; perfectly balanced with the natural sweetness of a cherry tomato. One taste tells the story.”

In addition to the premium products that make up its portfolio, what other strengths and capabilities make Nature Fresh Farms an ideal fresh produce partner?

“What makes NFF a formidable partner is simple: we understand the consumer. Not just who they are, but how shoppers use fresh, what they buy, and when and why they reach for it. That understanding shapes everything we do, from seed selection to shelf strategy.

We don't just grow Greenhouse Clean™ produce—we are invested in better understanding our consumer and retail partners so we can bring programs that connect with how shoppers live. That's what makes NFF a category growth engine.”

How do events like Southern Exposure contribute to strong produce partnerships and industry growth?

“Southern Exposure stands out for its format, which enables meaningful conversations around the consumer, category trends, strategic partnerships, and learning opportunities. The education sessions gave us space to listen, share ideas, and uncover insights that guide our consumer-focused approach.

The intimate setting encouraged open dialogue, relationship-building, and fresh thinking, helping us stay aligned with evolving market needs and make decisions that matter to the people we serve. The experience was valuable in helping us grow as an organization, so we can bring our best, show our best, and present our best in everything we do.

The energy was real, the conversations were substantive, and the interest in both Devours and Hiiros told us the market is ready. We're heading into the rest of 2026 with momentum—and a clear view of where the growth is.”

How is Nature Fresh Farms shaping its strategy for 2026? What areas of growth is the company building its blueprint around?

“In 2026, NFF is focused on putting consumers and retail partners first, ensuring every initiative reflects real shopper needs for flavor, convenience, and freshness. By combining deep category knowledge with a strong supply chain, we deliver high-quality, greenhouse-grown products that consistently meet consumer expectations.

At the same time, we remain committed to sustainable practices, reliable year-round supply, and continuous improvement across our greenhouse operations, growing responsibly while supporting retail success and category growth.”

Inspiration, innovation, and collaboration are revitalized by events like SEPC’s Southern Exposure, creating a valuable platform for another year of rapid industry growth. Eager to see what’s next from Nature Fresh Farms? Contact Meaghan O’Brien, Nature Fresh Farms Senior Communications Manager, today, and leave a tab open to AndNowUKnow.