ORLANDO, FL - The Southeast Produce Council’s long-term vision is rooted in people—intentionally cultivating the next generation of produce leaders while strengthening today’s guiding voices to fortify the region and industry from within. This deep connection among members, SEPC leadership, and those fortunate enough to find home in its gravity, drives the council’s continued influence amid industry challenges and a landscape constantly shifting beneath our feet.

Bringing structured leadership pathways, meaningful educational programming, and forward-looking, actionable content, SEPC equips retail and supply-side organizations with a unique competitive strength. The beauty of such a strength is that it is grounded in service and authentic relationship-building, ultimately shaping not only stronger businesses but also stronger careers and character.

As we approach SEPC Southern Exposure February 26–March 1, we bring you the finale of a four-part series featuring the voices of SEPC’s Board of Directors. There is still much left to say, champion, and build—and so we know that this is only the beginning for SEPC in 2026! Please join me to hear from Karin Humanik, Hilary Long, and Kimberly Flores.

Karin Humanik, Senior Director of Produce, Harris Teeter; Board of Directors, Southeast Produce Council

“My overarching goal in my role as Senior Director of Produce Merchandising at Harris Teeter is to cultivate future produce leaders through exceptional training, meaningful experiences, and measurable results. I see strong alignment between my personal and professional aspirations and SEPC’s programs, which support agriculture, retail, continuous learning, and a life of service. Several of my associates actively develop their leadership skills through service with SEPC. Some serve as Co-Chairs on the Retail Council or as committee members, ensuring retail representation helps shape SEPC events and initiatives. Others have completed SEPC’s Next Generation Leadership Academy.

Both avenues provide invaluable opportunities to broaden their perspectives while equipping them—and Harris Teeter—with a competitive advantage through strengthened leadership capabilities. Our team’s involvement with SEPC—through networking opportunities, council service, and event participation—enhances our ability to deliver a high-quality produce assortment and provide our customers with exceptional local products. The organization’s generous spirit of giving back is reflected in board leadership and in the many community outreach efforts that support the areas we live in and serve. I am passionate about investing in the next generation of agriculture and food retail leaders, and SEPC is a valued partner in advancing that mission.”

Hilary Long, CMO, Frey Farms; Board of Directors, Southeast Produce Council

“The Southeast Produce Council has distinguished itself with a unique culture built on impactful events, meaningful networking opportunities, and southern hospitality. This culture is the reason we continue to see substantial growth and engagement across all events. SEPC members recognize the events are designed to build genuine relationships and share innovation while maintaining an intimate, ‘boutique,’ atmosphere. This deliberate focus on quality over scale creates an environment where business relationships flourish–while having a lot of fun.

SEPC’s focus on educational content has become a cornerstone. I’m honored to contribute to this programming alongside respected thought leaders in our industry. The large number of fellow growers and retailers who request conference presentation recordings validates the impact of this content. As the produce industry navigates a complex landscape, collaboration and support from growers, retailers, and supply partners has never been more critical. The people who help guide SEPC embody the steadfast commitment we all need.”

Kimberly Flores, Vice President of Business Development and Marketing, Pro Citrus Network; Foremost Fresh Direct; Board of Directors, Southeast Produce Council

“As I reflect on my years of involvement with the SEPC, one key word comes to mind: Relationships—which coincidentally is also one of our core values at Pro Citrus Network. From the early years at the Southern Exposure shows, it was clear that SEPC had something special, a sense of belonging, purpose, and Southern hospitality. From making new connections to the bonds of decades-long friendships, the focus has always been and continues to be on PEOPLE and meaningful relationships. It’s almost like a family reunion, and the business is a byproduct.

Additionally, SEPC's culture embodies ‘Servant Leadership’ through the many community outreach programs and charitable organizations we support through SEPC CARES. On the receiving end of each organization are people whose lives are positively impacted by our work. To me, this is by far more valuable than any career achievement.

I’m so very grateful and proud to serve on SEPC’s Board of Directors and to continue to serve this amazing industry. Despite the incredible growth of the organization and its members, SEPC’s steadfast commitment to faith in God has not wavered. It is the foundation of who we are, it’s part of our heart and soul, and as the most meaningful relationship in what sets us apart.”

Thank you, Karin, Hilary, and Kimberly, for your thoughtful reflections and passionate words.

Please revisit Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 to hear from other industry leaders who help guide SEPC, including David Sherrod, Sloan Lott, Gary Baker, Jose M. Roggiero, Mike Tipton, Don Fox, Erin Waters, Matt Hubbard, Maclaren Oglesby, Derek Ennis, Shanan Cox, Ross Williams, Blair Greenhill, and Rob Bonghi.

Wheels up, Orlando. See you all very soon!

LEAMINGTON, ON - Nature Fresh Farms has earned eight PAC Global Awards over the past three years, including a 2026 Best-in-Class award for its Taste Good, Feel Good™ rebrand and an Award of Distinction for Snack Happy™.

The recognition reflects more than standout design. It signals a deliberate transformation underway at Nature Fresh Farms – one that places the consumer at the center of how fresh produce brands are built, activated, and scaled with retail partners.

“In fresh, we’ve traditionally led with supply,” said Amanda Armstrong, Vice President, Product & Brand Strategy, in the recent release. “Today, we’re leading with how people actually live, eat, and shop. That shift changes everything from packaging and portfolio architecture to retail execution.”

Taste Good, Feel Good™ modernized Nature Fresh Farms’ everyday essentials portfolio with clean, confident design and transparent packaging that simplifies shopper choice and reinforces consistent quality. Snack Happy™ introduced a fresh-forward snacking platform designed to extend produce into occasions traditionally dominated by center-store brands.

Together, these initiatives represent a broader commitment: building brands that elevate the role of fresh produce in real life.
Nature Fresh Farms’ greenhouse-grown precision provides the operational foundation for that ambition, delivering dependable quality year-round and enabling retailers to execute with confidence. By pairing supply strength with disciplined brand architecture and targeted activation, the company is creating clearer navigation for shoppers and new pathways for category growth.

“For our retail partners, this is about far more than packaging,” said Josianne Legare, SVP, North American Sales & Strategic Growth. “It’s about building brands that create engagement at shelf, support premium trade-up, and drive incremental growth across the category. Fresh can lead when it shows up with clarity, confidence, and commercial discipline.”

As the company continues to invest in brand, digital activation, and in-store execution, Nature Fresh Farms is reshaping expectations for fresh produce by unlocking what fresh can uniquely deliver.

WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Supreme Court has struck down President Donald Trump’s global tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), according to Reuters.

In a 6-3 ruling authored by Chief Justice John Roberts, the Court determined that IEEPA—a statute historically used for sanctions and emergency economic controls—did not grant the president authority to impose broad-based tariffs. The justices upheld lower court findings that the administration exceeded its authority in applying the law to implement sweeping import duties.

The National Retail Federation issued the following statement from Executive Vice President of Government Relations David French in response to the Supreme Court’s ruling regarding the Trump administration’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose tariffs.

“The Supreme Court’s announcement today regarding tariffs provides much-needed certainty for U.S. businesses and manufacturers, enabling global supply chains to operate without ambiguity. Clear and consistent trade policy is essential for economic growth, creating jobs and opportunities for American families. We urge the lower court to ensure a seamless process to refund the tariffs to U.S. importers. The refunds will serve as an economic boost and allow companies to reinvest in their operations, their employees and their customers.”

For the produce industry, tariffs have played a role in shaping costs, sourcing strategies, and pricing across categories with significant import exposure, including fruits and vegetables sourced from Mexico, Canada, and other trading partners. While the ruling invalidates tariffs imposed specifically under IEEPA, it does not eliminate other trade authorities that could be used to implement duties moving forward.

Reuters reported that the administration signaled it may pursue alternative statutory mechanisms to maintain tariff measures. Legal experts noted that other trade laws—including national security and unfair trade practice provisions—remain available, though their scope and speed of implementation may differ.

The Court’s decision does not immediately clarify whether previously collected tariff revenue will be refunded, leaving that issue open to further legal proceedings. Markets responded with volatility following the ruling as stakeholders assessed potential changes to trade policy direction.

The decision reinforces congressional authority over tariff policy while leaving open the possibility of continued trade action through other legal channels. Industry stakeholders will be monitoring how federal trade policy evolves in the months ahead and what it could mean for sourcing, pricing, and supply continuity across fresh categories.

For continued coverage on developments impacting fresh, check ANUK.

ELGIN, MN - Honeybear Brands, a leading grower, marketer, and developer of premium conventional and organic apples, pears, and cherries, is urging retailers to remind shoppers to eat more fiber-rich apples this March, in an effort to help them reduce their risk of certain cancers, including Colon Cancer.

And in addition to cancer protection, emerging research shows fiber can even protect our brains – slowing down symptoms of cognitive decline.

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S. and the risk is growing in younger adults – 1 in 5 diagnoses are now occurring in people under 55, and the American Cancer Society is urging regular screenings start at age 45 rather than 50.

But in the US, about 97% of men and 90% of women do not eat enough fiber. The American diet features processed food, and low-fiber, high-fat meals. A high-fiber diet can mitigate risk, providing a preventative measure against colon cancer. Apple peels are packed with fiber thanks to phytochemicals -- such as flavonoids and polyphenols -- which has been shown to fight certain cancers.

“We know shoppers are looking to make informed choices. They are aware of fiber’s contribution to good gut health, which supports overall health,” said Kristi Harris, Marketing Director, Honeybear Brands, in the recent release. “And with apples, it’s easy to sneak more fiber into our diets. Whether you take an apple with you as an on-the-go snack, slice it up instead of chips for lunch or add to a dish for dinner, apples deliver on taste and health in spades. Plus, they are very affordable.”

Honeybear Brands is supporting this Colorectal Cancer education effort at retail, offering point of sale promotional materials featuring the recognized blue ribbon this March. The company is also working with food blogger My Food Gal on a social media campaign to inspire consumers to follow her easy, high fiber recipe that features the delicious combination of apples and peanut butter.

MILLEN GA - This month’s Southern Roots Member Spotlight shines on Catherine Gilmore, Buyer at Royal Food Service. Take a moment to learn more about Catherine!

What is your favorite quote and why?

"I saw the angel in the marble and I carved until I set him free" – Michelangelo

This quote has always resonated with me because it mirrors how I think about personal growth and vision. Becoming the person that you want to be takes consistent effort, patience, and a willingness to work through uncomfortable moments. But as long as you have a clear vision of the "angel", however, every stroke of the chisel becomes worth it.

What are things that you do to ensure that you continue to grow and develop as a leader?

When given the chance to take on something new, I almost always just say "yes", even if it falls outside the official scope of my role. "That's not my job" is not a phrase you will ever hear from me. Saying "yes" has exposed me to many different parts of the business and helped me better understand the "big picture". It's pushed me outside of my comfort zone, strengthened my problem-solving skills, and made me a more thoughtful and adaptable member of the team.

What's the most important thing that you've learned in your career?

The value of leaning on others. No one has all the answers! Some of the best decisions I've made have come from working alongside other people, like picking a grower's brain for their deep product knowledge, or working closely with salespeople to truly understand the market. Building strong relationships and staying open to different perspectives has consistently led to better outcomes, and has made me a more confident decision-maker and a stronger leader.

What is one characteristic that you believe all leaders should possess?

Integrity. Doing the right thing, even when it's difficult or inconvenient, builds trust and credibility with both your team, your customers, and your external business partners. When people know your word means something, it creates stronger relationships, as well as a culture of accountability.

What is your least favorite mode of transportation?

Plane. I'm not afraid of flying, I just hate dealing with airports! I also admit, I pack heavy, and don't enjoy paying out the wazoo to bring extra bags. Give me a podcast and some snacks and I'll happily drive to wherever I need to be.

When you have 30 minutes of free time, what do you do?

Sneak in a workout! Free time is rare for me these days, but when I do have a moment, I try to fit in some kind of exercise - usually lifting weights. Even a short session helps me reset, clear my head, and feel more energized for the rest of the day.

What is your favorite part of your career?

Relationships. I'm a people person at heart, and working in purchasing allows me to collaborate with a wide range of partners both internally and externally — from suppliers and sales to accounting and marketing. Building strong relationships and working together toward mutually beneficial outcomes is one of the most rewarding parts of my role.

What is your guilty pleasure (TV show, food, etc.)?

Pizza! I generally try to stay conscious of my health, but pizza is my achilles heel. I can't say no to a slice!

What are you passionate about?

I am a huge animal lover. My mom worked at a veterinary clinic when I was a kid, and I would usually spend my afternoons after school hanging out there until her shift ended. That experience sparked a huge passion for animals for me. I am a huge advocate for shelters, fostering, and TNR programs, and I also have two cats of my own, Spud and Juniper, who completely run my household.

If you could spend the day with one celebrity, who would it be and why?

Steve Irwin. Growing up I watched more Animal Planet than I did Disney or Nickelodeon, and The Crocodile Hunter was one of my favorite shows. Beyond his energy and enthusiasm, Steve did incredible work for conservation and animal advocacy. I would have loved the opportunity to pick his brain about conservation, environmental challenges, and how he might approach protecting wildlife in today's world.