WASHINGTON, DC - The Trump administration announced new tariff exemptions for a range of goods not produced domestically in sufficient quantities, including certain produce products. The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) issued the following statement:

“We welcome the Trump administration’s recognition that supporting a healthier America requires keeping fruits and vegetables affordable and available. Today’s announcement acknowledges that easing cost pressures on items not grown domestically in sufficient supply is essential to maintaining the affordability of high-quality fresh produce products.

“For years, IFPA has emphasized that tariffs on products not produced at scale year-round could place an avoidable burden on families, limit healthy choices, and disrupt the marketplace. We have consistently advocated for the removal of tariffs and non-tariff barriers that are unscientific or not risk-based on fresh produce. Because of the seasonal and geographic nature of certain commodities, consumers and growers both benefit from fair trade in fresh produce and floral products. With that rationale, we will continue to make the case for similar exemptions extended to floral products.

"We also urge the Administration and Congress to pursue policies to keep U.S. growers competitive, particularly production-related costs and labor pressures. This will ensure consumers can obtain the nutritious foods and floral products that enrich their health, well-being, and daily lives year-round.

“IFPA looks forward to working proactively with the Trump administration and leaders around the world on trade policies that ensure the full produce supply chain is empowered to bring consumers a consistent, reliable supply of fresh produce and floral products.”

The announcement follows IFPA’s longstanding advocacy for targeted tariff relief. In March, IFPA sent a letter to administration officials urging exemptions for produce and floral products to safeguard the availability of affordable, nutritious food—an effort the association has continued to advance throughout the year.

In a related effort, IFPA and the Society of American Florists (SAF) jointly urged the U.S. Trade Representative and the Department of Commerce to exempt all imported cut flowers from tariffs. The Nov. 3 letter emphasized the essential role imported cut flowers play in meeting year-round consumer demand and detailed how tariffs disrupt the global floral supply chain and increase costs for U.S. businesses.

ST. CLOUD, MN - A recent LinkedIn announcement from the retailer highlighted a major milestone in its leadership journey, setting the stage for a significant transition within its executive team. The post celebrated years of service, organizational growth, and the people behind its financial strategy—offering a heartfelt glimpse into what comes next.

After nearly 10 years of outstanding leadership at Coborn’s, Inc., Jim Shaw is retiring as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

During his time with us, Jim has been instrumental in guiding our organization through periods of significant growth and transformation and mentoring countless team members. His steady vision and commitment to Coborn’s, Inc. will leave a lasting mark on our organization.

We are thrilled to welcome Carol O’Shea as our new Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. With over 20 years of experience in finance, retail, and technology, including serving as CFO of a private investment firm, Carol has a proven track record of driving growth, fostering collaboration, and leading high-performing teams. We are confident she will continue building on the strong foundation Jim has established.

Please join us in celebrating Jim’s incredible career and wishing him a long, joyful retirement filled with new adventures!

SALISBURY, NC - Food Lion remains committed to caring for the towns and cities it serves by ensuring easy access to fresh, quality food at affordable prices. As more families turn to local food banks for support, the omnichannel grocery retailer is stepping up to meet an increased need for food assistance. Food Lion has increased its donation to $1.6 million to nourish families and bring hope to communities across its 10-state operating area.

As previously announced, the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation committed to $1 million in emergency grants to food bank partners and launched an in-store donation campaign from Nov. 1–4 at all Food Lion locations. During the four-day activation, customers contributed nearly $300,000 in register donations. Food Lion is matching those donations dollar for dollar, bringing the total amount of relief aid to $1.6 million, which will be distributed to 32 food bank partners through Nourishing our Neighbors grants and gift cards.

“As more families face difficult choices, we recognize the growing need in the towns and cities we serve and our responsibility to nourish our neighbors,” said Greg Finchum, President, Food Lion, in the recent release. “We are committed to doing our part to ensure those in need have access to fresh food at affordable prices and our food bank partners have the resources that build stronger, healthier communities. We’re proud to be a trusted partner our communities can count on.”

The Foundation identified 32 food banks to receive Nourishing our Neighbors emergency grants, helping them accommodate an increase in visitors, keep shelves stocked, extend hours of operation and ensure families have access to the nourishment they need during a critical time.

See the full list of food banks here.