MODESTO, CA - The Save Mart Companies, one of the West Coast's largest regional, full-service grocery chains, announced that Jim Perkins has been named President and CEO.

With deep roots in California's Central Valley, The Save Mart Companies operates more than 200 stores across California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington with over 11,000 associates—more than 30% of whom have served their communities for over 20 years. This multi-generational workforce and authentic neighborhood commitment recently earned the company 2025 Retailer of the Year recognition from Progressive Grocer.

"I am honored to lead The Save Mart Companies at this pivotal moment," said Perkins in a recent release. "For 70 years, we've been a trusted partner to West Coast families because we understand what it means to be a true neighbor. Our associates know their communities intimately because they live and work in them, serving neighbors they've known for years. Our competitive advantage isn't just what we do—it's who we are. That authentic connection, combined with our transformation across operations, formats, and digital innovation, positions us for meaningful growth while staying true to our roots."

Under Perkins' leadership as President, The Save Mart Companies has driven significant operational improvements and customer-focused initiatives across its Save Mart, Lucky, FoodMaxx, Roth's, and Chuck's banners. His strategic priorities—customer centricity, operational excellence, and talent development—reflect the company's commitment to honoring tradition while embracing transformation.

Perkins assumes the role following the retirement of Shane Sampson, who led the company as CEO since 2022. Under the ownership of The Jim Pattison Group, one of North America's most respected private holding companies, The Save Mart Companies has the capital structure and long-term stability to support continued investment in technology, formats, loyalty, and supply chain modernization.

"Jim exemplifies the leadership qualities and community commitment that define both The Save Mart Companies and The Jim Pattison Group," said Ryan Barrington-Foote, President of The Jim Pattison Group. "His deep understanding of West Coast grocery, proven track record of operational excellence, and dedication to developing people make him the ideal leader to guide this award-winning company into its next chapter. We're excited to support Jim and this exceptional team as they build on 70 years of trusted service to their communities."

In 2026, the company will open new locations, complete major remodels, and expand merchandising assortments across all banners.

Jim Perkins: Background

• A Sonoma, California native with more than 40 years in the grocery industry
• Previously served as President of The Save Mart Companies, leading Store Operations, Merchandising, and Marketing
• Spent the first 12 years of his grocery career in California before leading teams across the United States, including Florida,
• Oklahoma, Texas, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Idaho
• Returned to California in 2004 to lead the Lucky banner in the Bay Area
• Recognized for developing next-generation grocery leaders and driving operational excellence, earning national recognition including the Maryland Food Industry Council Hall of Fame, Pete Manos Retail Executive of the Year, two-time MAFTO Retail Executive of the Year, and the New Jersey Food Industry Council Retail Executive of the Year
• Holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix

CHINO HILLS, CA - Despite a decline in Peruvian grape exports to North America early in the season, Oppy is charting a different course thanks to its long-term supply base and the advantages of aligning with Dole Diversified North America (DDNA) in October 2025.

The strategic integration of DDNA brings an additional 1.25 million boxes of grapes to Oppy’s program from Peru and Chile, up 44% over the prior year. Oppy ranks among the top ten importers of Peruvian grapes into the U.S. and Canada.

“This is a milestone season for Oppy,” said Executive Director of Grapes and Stonefruit Bill Poulos in the recent release. “By expanding our program through Dole, we’re not only increasing volume, but adding depth and resilience to our supply. We have exceptional grapes coming from Peru, and our team’s visit to Ica in November confirmed the fruit is outstanding. We are very happy with the quality, and we’re set up for a strong season.”

This year also marks an exciting influx of high-demand varieties, including Sun World favorite AutumnCrisp® arriving from Peru, followed by availability from Chile through the end of April.

Director of Domestic Grapes and Sales Manager Marc Serpa shared, “As the import grape season gets into full stride, the market is primed for promotable green and red grapes. Shoppers are eager for grapes with green stems, great sizing and outstanding flavor profiles coming from Sun World and BloomFresh.”

Oppy expects excellent availability across a wide spectrum of colors and varieties, including:

• Red varieties: Allison, Jack’s Salute™ and Scarlotta Seedless®
• Green varieties: AutumnCrisp®, Timpson, Sweet Globe™ and Great Green

“Our strategic grower-partners are rated very highly for the quality of their AutumnCrisp, and have the acreage and scale to deliver more than last season. Red and green fresh crop grapes will be available in volume from mid-January till the end of February,” said Vice President of South American Operations David Nelley. “With trusted brands in our portfolio including Dole, Ocean Spray and Sun Grape, Oppy’s grape program offers consistency and quality shoppers will be looking for at shelf.”

With new varieties and consistent brands consumers know and trust, Oppy is well-positioned to help retailers drive sales this season and into the future.

PRODUCE INDUSTRY - We are nothing in this industry without each other. As the year continues to take shape, it becomes clear that progress rarely happens in isolation. It’s built through shared experiences, steady preparation, and the conversations that reconnect us after busy seasons and shifting priorities. The new year brings a renewed sense of togetherness that continues to guide our work. 

Between follow-up calls, familiar names returning to our inboxes, and events drawing closer on the calendar, there’s a quiet reassurance in how often we show up for one another. We invite you to spend a moment with reflections from a few more of our industry friends as we move forward together in 2026.

Karen White, Vice President of Marketing, Bolthouse Fresh Foods™

"I always love the sense of optimism that comes with a new year, even as each year seems to get busier for all of us. I see it less as a reset and more as a continuation of a longer journey. For me, every day brings small moments and chances to learn, stretch, and grow. Along the way, it is the people we connect with and show up for that matter most. Family, friends, colleagues, and communities. Sometimes that simply means calling or texting a friend while standing in the grocery store. Not losing sight of those moments, as life stays busy, is something I come back to again and again."

Tony Incaviglia, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, GR Fresh

“As the new year begins, I’m taking a moment to reflect on what this past year taught me—lessons that have made me more aware of my strengths and weaknesses. Become clearer about priorities and more focused, seeing through all the noise to accomplish specific goals. Continue to be much wiser for what challenged me, and there were plenty over the last year. Ultimately, step into this new year, take a deep breath with renewed focus, discipline, and purpose.”

Ryan Sanchez, Produce Sales Manager, Albertsons and Vons

“When I think of the new year, I think about all the wins and opportunities that I had in the previous year in my personal and professional life. As I look forward in the new year, it’s time for a clean slate, and I am excited about improving on my opportunities and doubling down on the wins. The new year is always a great time to challenge yourself on something you want to accomplish at some point during the next 12 months!”

Catherine Gironda, Produce Category Manager, MOM's Organic Market

“If there’s anything to be learned from 2025, it’s that life is too short. It’s time to throw caution to the wind. 2026 is the year to take big risks. Jump on new opportunities. Let confidence steer your ship. Have the courage to grow out of your comfort zone and keep setting the bar higher.”

Jeff Cady, Vice President of Produce & Floral, Northeast Shared Services (Tops Markets, Price Chopper, Market 32) 

"While 2025 is in the rearview mirror, as I look back, much was accomplished, and there was a lot to be proud of. Of course, not every goal that was set was achieved; most were, and we are truly in a better place today than we were at the beginning of 2025. As I enter my 41^st year in this industry, I am as excited and as driven as ever to drive produce sales and do my part to put the best quality product on the shelves as possible to push produce consumption to new heights in 2026."

Please stay tuned as we bring you more words from our industry friends and those who make the produce world go round. Happy New Year!

LOS ANGELES, CA - The Giumarra Companies, a 104-year-old fresh produce company, announces the next evolution of its business with the retirement of Don Corsaro, former President and current Chairman, and a minority equity investment from AGR Partners, a specialist food and agribusiness investor.

“Our team thanks Don for his 65 years of guidance and mentorship, where he led a culture of integrity and service that grew the company into what it is today,” said Tim Riley, President of The Giumarra Companies, in a press release. “As we look ahead, we are thrilled to partner with AGR, a like-minded organization with demonstrated success in the agriculture industry. AGR’s resources in combination with our dedicated employees, many of whom have been working with us for decades, will allow us to explore new opportunities and position our company for long-term success.”

Riley stated that customers, growers, and industry partners should continue to expect the same quality and service The Giumarra Companies has been known for since 1922, now with the expertise and capital support of AGR Partners to help accelerate the company’s growth.

“AGR’s purpose is to grow leaders and leading companies. Giumarra has built a ‘one-stop-produce-shop’ by serving retailers and foodservice customers with consistency, quality, and strong relationships across its supply chain. We are excited to support Giumarra as they continue to build on their strong foundation,” said Ejnar Knudsen, Chief Executive Officer of AGR Partners.

“I am incredibly proud of the company we have built together and look forward to witnessing everything our team will accomplish in the future alongside AGR,” said Don Corsaro, retiring Chairman of The Giumarra Companies.