OXNARD, CA - Mission Produce, Inc., a world leader in sourcing, producing, and distributing fresh Hass avocados, announced the launch of its new 4-kilo Lidded Mango Carton, a consumer-ready packaging solution designed to help retailers streamline merchandising and drive incremental mango sales.

“With demand for mangos continuing to build,¹ retailers are looking for solutions that are both operationally efficient and visually compelling,” said Brooke Becker, Senior Vice President of Sales at Mission Produce, in the recent release. “Our new lidded mango carton was developed with the retailer in mind—it arrives display-ready, creates a strong in-store presence, and supports impulse purchases during key promotional windows. We anticipate this format will help our partners elevate the mango category while simplifying execution at store level.”

Designed as a single sell unit, the hand-packed carton features a bold, orange design and a distinctive lid that showcases the fruit while protecting quality. The stackable format allows for flexible placement on-shelf or in secondary displays, enabling retailers to quickly build high-impact merchandising destinations. Mission expects the new carton to help retailers capitalize on the mango momentum during holidays, promotional events, and other high-traffic selling periods.

Mission is currently packing the cartons with Peruvian Kents and plans to transition to Mexican supply beginning in March. The carton accommodates round mango varieties, including Kent, Keitt, Tommy Atkins, and Haden, across multiple sizes, offering customers consistent supply options throughout the season.

Mission Produce will be showcasing the Lidded Mango Carton at the SEPC Southern Exposure tradeshow in Orlando, Fla., from Feb. 26–March 1 at booth #302. For more information or to schedule a meeting, contact [email protected].

^{End Notes:}

^{USDA Market News. Mango Imports. 2005-2025.}

PERU - The International Blueberry Organization (IBO) has announced that Peru has been selected as the host country for the next IBO Summit, scheduled to take place in November 2027. The decision was confirmed following a formal selection process among IBO member countries and reflects Peru’s growing influence and relevance within the global blueberry sector. The IBO Summit is the organization’s flagship in-person event, bringing together growers, marketers, researchers, service providers, and industry leaders from across the world to exchange insights, address shared challenges, and shape the future direction of the blueberry category.

Mario Steta, Chairman of the IBO, said in the recent release that the decision was the result of both strong interest from member countries and a clear consensus around Peru’s importance to the industry. “The IBO has a long tradition of hosting its Summits in different producing regions around the world, and we saw strong interest from several countries,” Steta said. “What Peru represents today, and what it will represent in the years ahead, is highly significant for the global blueberry industry.”

Steta noted that recent Summits have demonstrated the value of long-term planning and broad international participation, something the organization aims to build on in 2027. “Our most recent Summit in South Africa showed what is possible when we plan well in advance and bring together decision-makers from across the sector. Hosting the Summit in Peru will allow participants to better understand, from the source, how one of the most dynamic blueberry industries in the world is evolving.”

Miguel Bentín, President of Peruvian blueberry industry body Proarándanos, welcomed the announcement and said the Summit represents an opportunity for the international industry to engage directly with Peru’s experience and outlook. “For us, this is a chance to host the industry at a very different moment for Peruvian blueberries,” Bentín said. “The sector has reached a stage of maturity, while still maintaining growth. Many of the key discussions happening globally today — around genetics, production systems, technology, and sustainability — are happening in Peru.”

Bentín also highlighted the broader impact of blueberry production within the country. “Blueberries have played a meaningful role in strengthening rural economies and generating quality employment. That wider economic and social impact is an important part of the story we look forward to sharing with the global industry.”

While the specific host city and technical program will be announced at a later stage, the Summit is expected to combine conference sessions with field visits and regional activities, consistent with the IBO’s emphasis on practical learning and open, intra-industry dialogue. The 2027 IBO Summit in Peru is anticipated to attract more than 600 delegates from producing and consuming markets worldwide, reinforcing the organization’s role as a platform for collaboration, transparency, and shared growth across the blueberry sector.

DALLAS, TX - Influential executives from across the foodservice industry will serve on the 2026 WFF Board of Directors, working together to help guide WFF's strategic priorities, advancing leadership development, strengthening talent pipelines, and equipping organizations with the skills and insights needed to drive performance in an increasingly complex business environment. As the premier nonprofit professional development organization serving the foodservice industry, WFF is proud to partner with these accomplished leaders to build limitless opportunities across operators, manufacturers, distributors and allied partners shaping the future of this dynamic industry.

"Impact starts at the top with leaders who understand our industry, are committed to its growth, and are ready to foster work environments that create greater opportunities for everyone while driving stronger organizational performance," said WFF President & CEO Kelli Valade in the recent release. "WFF is grateful for the guidance these seasoned leaders bring to our work and honored to partner with them in advancing our mission of Changing the Face of Leadership®."

Dawn Rasmussen, Chief Revenue Officer, Woodland Gourmet, will serve as Chair of the 2026 WFF Board of Directors. "The WFF Board is made up of women and men with deep industry expertise and a shared commitment to helping others grow their careers while strengthening the industry," Rasmussen said. "Through its in-person and virtual leadership development, role modeling, and strategic networking, WFF is building a strong and diverse pipeline of future leaders."

Congratulations to WFF 2026 Officers and Executive Committee appointments

• Brooke Buchanan, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Panera Bread
• Christie Cook, Vice President, Head of Human Resources, DINE Brands Global
• Sandy Furbee, Senior Director, Product Development & Commercialization, Nestlé
• Janicka Green, Divisional Vice President of Operations, LongHorn Steakhouse, Darden Restaurants
• Jeff Swinton, VP, GoTo Market, CJ Schwan's Company
• Andra Stan, Vice President, Go to Market, North America, McCain Foods
• Elizabeth Ubell, SVP, Chief Strategy Officer, Sysco Foods

WFF 2026 Executive Committee

• Chair - Dawn Rasmussen, Chief Revenue Officer, Woodland Gourmet
• Chair-Elect - Shannon Garcia, President, Global Franchise Markets and Global Operations, Yum! Brands
• Treasurer - Trona Balkissoon, SVP of Finance, Golden Corral
• Immediate Past Chair - Kate Jaspon, SVP, Chief Financial Officer, Inspire Brands
• Executive Committee Member - Tanika Cabral, GM and VP, Franchise Leadership, The Coca-Cola Company
• Executive Committee Member - Elizabeth Horvath, VP Marketing NA, Kerry
• Executive Committee Member - Meredith Nelson, Business Unit Director, Mexican Meals, General Mills
• Executive Committee Member - Coley O'Brien, Chief People Officer, The Wendy's Company

DINUBA, CA - Sumo Citrus® unveiled a first-of-its-kind culinary collaboration: a limited-edition olive oil created in partnership with the preeminent elevated olive oil brand, Brightland®. This rare infusion captures the legendary, complex sweetness of peak-season Sumo Citrus within Brightland's signature 100% California extra virgin olive oil. The result is a vibrant "liquid gold" — a finishing oil bursting with mandarin complexity that transforms every bite into a taste-of-joy moment.

Launching exclusively on Brightland's website, the Sumo Citrus Flavored Olive Oil was crafted with premium California ingredients to span the culinary spectrum — from drizzling and baking to roasting. Whether whisked into salad dressings, roasted with winter veggies, used in a marinade for chicken, or poured over ice cream, this craveable release is both unique and versatile, celebrating a shared love of flavor, craft, and California sunshine.

"This collaboration brings the taste of Sumo Citrus into kitchens in an entirely new way," says Sunnia Gull, vice president of marketing for Sumo Citrus, in the recent release. "As two beloved California brands with a shared commitment to quality—we're bottling our love of California-grown, distinct flavor and premium quality into one bold olive oil. Now, followers of the brand can celebrate the joy of Sumo Citrus flavor during our peak season and beyond in a new, creative way, whether in salads, sweets, or even cocktails and mocktails. It's bright, expressive, and an oil you'll reach for again and again."

"California is at the heart of everything we do at Brightland, so partnering with Sumo Citrus — the absolute gold standard of California citrus — felt like the ultimate expression of our commitment to flavor, craft, and quality," said Brightland CEO and Founder, Aishwarya Iyer. "We are dedicated to championing the best local agriculture, and this collaboration represents the perfect marriage of our high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and the legendary sweetness of the Sumo Citrus. It's a true celebration of flavor."

From the golden state of California, the flavor-first olive oil offers a bright and balanced profile and pairs well with cheese, salads, roasted vegetables, avocado toast, cocktails, baked goods, ice cream and so much more. The finish gives notes of mandarin peel, nectar and soft citrus oils, with zero bitterness.

The Sumo Citrus Flavored Olive Oil will be available while supplies last beginning Feb. 11 on Brightland's website for $48 (MSRP $60), packaged in a 375 mL / 12.7 fl. oz. fully recyclable UV-coated glass bottle. For more information, visit brightland.co/products/sumo-citrus and be sure to follow Sumo Citrus on TikTok and Instagram and Brightland on TikTok and Instagram for inspirational recipe ideas with the co-branded olive oil.

FIREBAUGH, CA & BUFFALO, NY - With the offshore melon season in full force, the Melon Alliance, consisting of Westside Produce and Classic Fruit, reports steady improvement as production stabilizes following early seasonal challenges. During this season, the Alliance has continued to deliver consistent, high-quality melons while also reinforcing its commitment to our farms, partners, and Fair Trade Certified practices.

The offshore season began with weather-related challenges that impacted the first production cycle, causing temporary market fluctuations. “Weather was an issue in the early part of the growing season where yields were negatively impacted during the first cycle,” states Tom Ferguson, Vice President of East Coast Sales for Classic Fruit, in the recent release. “Lower production resulted in higher markets on both cantaloupe and honeydew, which peaked in early January. As production stabilized by mid-January, markets have started to settle to more historical levels.”

Despite these early hurdles, the Alliance’s offshore program has remained resilient, supported by strong grower relationships and a unified supply strategy. A key advantage of the program has been Classic Fruit’s Fair Trade Certified offerings, which continue to resonate with customers. “Fair Trade certification has provided us the opportunity to service retailers who are fully supportive of local farming communities by giving back a portion of the proceeds,” Ferguson added. This certification has continued to align with their commitment to social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and integrity and allows them to further enhance their mission of providing high quality melons to consumers.

Looking ahead, the outlook for the remainder of the offshore season remains highly positive. As the industry starts to move out of winter and into spring production soon, interest from retailers continues to grow. “Once we get through February and into our spring production, we’ve seen strong interest from retailers as promotional opportunities have been limited up to this point,” adds Ferguson. “As the weather begins to warm and daylight hours extend, melon promotions give consumers an early taste that summer is close. These months typically provide the best eating and best looking melons of the offshore season.”

In addition, the offshore melon program has also played a critical role in strengthening the Alliance between Westside Produce and Classic Fruit, particularly in ensuring reliability and consistency for customers during transitional supply periods.

“Our strengthened alliance with Classic Fruit has allowed us to build even stronger working relationships with our already outstanding customer base,” comments Mark George, Vice President of Sales at Westside Produce. “This ensures our customers that we will work hard to cover their melon needs every week of the year, giving them that uninterrupted supply.”

The Westside Produce and Classic Fruit Alliance remains committed to delivering premium melons, dependable supply, and meaningful partnerships throughout the remainder of the offshore season and beyond.

ORLANDO, FL - I believe the best fresh produce communities are those that understand that it’s at the intersection of professional and personal where the truly unique passion and purpose of an organization or group can thrive. We are not talking about how to navigate blurred lines or unclear distinctions; we are speaking of that intersection where the beating heart of what drives us and fundamentally makes us tick, is most present. When that becomes a part of our personal and professional lives, a true, authentic sense of passion, commitment, and community can be born.

The Southeast Produce Council exemplifies this harmony, weaving together industry expertise with heartfelt connections that inspire. As we approach Southern Exposure February 26–March 1, these elements remind us why our community endures and evolves.

In Part 3 of this SEPC Voices of the industry series, we join Derek Ennis, Shanan Cox, Ross Williams, Blair Greenhill, and Rob Bonghi as they reflect on the heart of SEPC as we look toward the upcoming event.

Derek Ennis, Board of Directors, Southeast Produce Council; and Sales Director, Potatoes and Onions, L&M Companies

“The Southeast Produce Council has played a defining role in my professional journey. From the very first Southern Exposure I attended, I knew the SEPC was different than any other industry organization. Rooted in faith, family, and friendships, it immediately felt less like a conference and more like a community. Giving back really matters to me, and SEPC has given me that opportunity through programs like STARS, STEPP UP, and especially NGLA. These programs provide a platform to invest in the next generation, pass along the values of the council, and help prepare future leaders to take our industry even further. I look forward to seeing my SEPC family in a few weeks.”

Shanan Cox, Board of Directors, Southeast Produce Council, and Senior Director, Merchandising, Sam's Club Produce

"The Southeast Produce Council has played a meaningful role in my professional journey over the years. It has always felt like more than just a council; it’s a true community. SEPC creates space for authentic conversations, long-lasting relationships, and collaborative growth across all levels of our industry. As we continue to navigate shifting consumer trends, economic uncertainty, and evolving technology, the Council’s mission to connect and elevate remains more relevant than ever. I’m grateful for the friendships, mentorship, and shared purpose it has provided, and I look forward to being a part of its continued impact."

Ross Williams, Board of Directors, Southeast Produce Council, and President, Titan Farms

“The relationship-driven platform created by SEPC serves as a critical connection point in our industry. It brings folks from all reaches of the supply chain together with one focus: moving the fresh produce industry forward. The educational programming, industry service awards, and future leader development opportunities all add value to an ever-changing industry. As a large grower/packer/shipper, Titan Farms looks forward to SEPC events with anticipation each year. That anticipation isn’t just about selling a crop; it is about how the relationships built will help guide our industry forward.”

Blair Greenhill, Board of Directors, Southeast Produce Council, Vice President of Purchasing, Nickey Gregory Company

"The Southeast Produce Council(SEPC) started in 1999 here on the Atlanta State Farmer's market where I currently have my office/warehouse at the Nickey Gregory Company. It holds a special place in my heart as it embodies my extended produce family and exudes a family reunion-like vibe. I've been at least somewhat involved for about 20 years now (heavily for over the last decade). So looking forward to Southern Exposure 2026 with networking at the dinners and on the golf course or pickleball court and at Good Seeds hearing encouraging and most helpful faith-based principles to live by and seeing exciting new items on the show floor to meeting emerging industry talent at Fresh Futures to hearing the new trends at the Power of Produce this show has it all including still fostering that intimate feel. There are three certainties in life—death, taxes, and Southern Exposure being a must-attend event in the produce industry."

Rob Bonghi, Board of Directors, Southeast Produce Council, and Director of Grower Development, Fresh Alliance

“The Southeast Produce Council truly means family—from the farm to the fork. That sense of community was a huge part of what drew me to the Council when I relocated to the South 13 years ago. Over the years, the Council and the grower community have been incredible allies to me personally and to my company, and for that, I am forever grateful. What inspires me most about SEPC is its unwavering dedication to its vision and mission—values that are deeply respected throughout our industry. Being able to share in this dedication and give back to an industry that has blessed me with lifelong friendships and unforgettable experiences continues to be a personal aspiration of mine. Serving as a Member of the Board of Directors and co-Chairing the SEPC STEP UPP Foodservice Program alongside my friend, Dave Vegrager, is a true testament to that commitment. It is such an honor to serve, and I am deeply grateful for the trust the Council has placed in us to help lead and develop the future leaders of our industry.”

Please check out Part 1 and Part 2 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, and Maclaren Oglesby.

Thank you each for your wisdom and your time. See you all very soon!