MADRID, SPAIN - Covering technical topics on packaging, composting, and sustainable practices, the platform is designed to support stakeholders in the context of new packaging regulations.

As global leader in fresh produce labelling solutions, Sinclair is launching the first platform of its kind for the global fresh produce industry. The resource hub will be available for free on the Sinclair website.

Created to offer educational content to help understand regulations, compostable products, composting, product certification, and more. The platforms' goal is to provide packaging stakeholders, and even consumers, with the resources needed to make informed decisions. Over time, it will develop into a comprehensive and ever-expanding resource hub.

Making technical topics accessible

“Since launching our certified compostable label, Sinclair - T55, last year, we've identified a significant gap in clear and accessible information regarding packaging waste and compostable products”, said Duncan Jones, Senior Marketing Manager at Sinclair, in the recent release. Compostable products—and the topics surrounding them—can quickly become highly technical. Compounding this complexity is the lack of global alignment in sustainable packaging regulations, which has led to staggered and delayed implementation across different regions. 'We see an urgent need to share our expertise and insights into the technical aspects and topics related to compostable fruit labels, as well as labeling systems more broadly, with all our stakeholders,' he added

The hub features articles, guides, and insights from leading experts in the industry. Initial topics include “Why compostable fruit labels offer a smart path to sustainable produce packaging” and “Navigating the compostable regulation landscape.”

“We’re starting small, but our goal is to build a robust knowledge hub by actively listening to our customers and industry stakeholders. As packaging continues to evolve rapidly, we aim to bring clarity to our space by sharing fact-based, data-driven insights and resources that truly add value. This marks an exciting step toward making high-quality industry knowledge more accessible to everyone.”, said Jones.

Sparking conversations

This launch is conveniently timed ahead of two of the main industry events of the year: Fruit Attraction, September 30 to October 2 in Madrid (Spain) and The Global Produce and Floral Show, October 16-18 in Anaheim (USA).

“Partnerships have been central to Sinclair’s success over the past 43 years. We’re committed to continuing meaningful conversations with our customers and the wider industry at events like these. Face-to-face dialogue is essential for building trust, and we genuinely value the exchange of ideas," explained Jones. "The global success of our T55 compostable label has been a major milestone. Now, we’re focused on maintaining that momentum and helping to demystify the complexities and regulatory requirements surrounding compostable packaging”.

Visitors will be able to find Sinclair at Fruit Attraction in Hall 10, Stand 10B21 and at the Global Produce and Floral Show at stand 3931.

UNITED STATES - Trader Joe’s expansion continues full steam ahead this month, with the retailer celebrating grand openings and teasing more stores soon to come, according to its recent announcements. From the East Coast to the West, new neighborhoods are about to get their own Crew.

The specialty grocer plans to host grand opening celebrations for the following locations:

• Staten Island (South Shore), New York — September 24 (8 AM)
• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina — September 30 (9 AM)

In addition to these store openings, Trader Joe’s has revealed plans to further expand its footprint with stores coming soon in the following markets:

• Columbia, South Carolina
• Costa Mesa, California
• Cypress, Texas

AndNowUKnow will continue to track the retailer’s growth as more doors open nationwide—stay tuned for future updates.

KEENE, NH - C&S Wholesale Grocers, LLC announced the completion of its acquisition of SpartanNash Company. The combined company employs more than 30,000 team members and operates almost 60 complementary distribution centers covering the U.S. and serves close to 10,000 independent retail locations, as well as military commissaries and exchanges, with more than 200 corporate-run grocery stores.

“The combination of these two great companies creates a platform for future success. As ONE, we bring the best team in the industry to provide advanced solutions to ensure braggingly happy customers and feed our communities for generations to come,” stated Eric Winn, Chief Executive Officer, in the recent release.

The industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, and both our customers and our own businesses must evolve at or ahead of that pace, in order to compete effectively and win.

The integration of two industry-leading companies will drive an even better service experience for chain, independent, and military customers across the nation, with the right products at the right prices to support tailored assortments.

“We are grateful to our associates, customers, and partners who have supported us throughout this process. Our combined capabilities will create meaningful new opportunities for our people, customers, and shoppers as we continue to deliver the ingredients for a better life,” said SpartanNash President and CEO Tony Sarsam, who will now serve as an advisor for a transitionary period with the combined company.

“Our goal is to build a company that will redefine our industry and drive future growth for the next phase of our collective legacy as THE BEST food solutions company in the industry,” said Rick Cohen, Executive Chairman.

SALISBURY, NC - Food Lion Feeds is launching its annual Gala Apple Bag campaign as part of its continued efforts to help reduce food insecurity throughout Food Lion’s 10-state operating footprint. Food Lion customers can purchase specially marked Gala apple bags from Sept. 17 through Oct. 7 or make a cash donation to support community hunger relief organizations. Food Lion Feeds was founded in 2014 by Food Lion to address food insecurity.

Approximately 6.8 million U.S. households experienced very low food security in 2023, according to a recent report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, meaning families skipped meals or ate less meals due to limited finances.

Since launching in 2014, the Gala Apple Bag campaign has provided the equivalent of more than 40 million meals* based on the generosity of Food Lion customers.

“This campaign is about neighbors helping neighbors,” said Kevin Durkee, Manager, Food Lion Feeds, Food Lion, in the recent release. “Each Gala apple bag purchased, and every dollar donated at the register adds up to nourishing meals for families. We are proud to not only partner with our valued customers but community organizations to help fight hunger in the towns and cities we serve.”

Proceeds from the sale of Gala apple bags along with customer donations will benefit hunger relief organizations that are awarded grants through the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation. Each year, the foundation, the philanthropic arm of Food Lion, awards more than $1 million in grants to community partners nourishing neighbors in need in the towns and cities Food Lion serves.

To help reduce food insecurity, customers can purchase a specially marked Gala Apple Bag or contribute cash donations while checking out in-store or online via Food Lion To Go. Customers can also use the digital keypads at checkout to donate a specific dollar amount or round up their purchases.

The Gala Apple Bag campaign is among many efforts coordinated by Food Lion Feeds throughout the year to reduce food insecurity. For more information on Food Lion Feeds’ commitment to ending hunger, visit foodlion.com/feeds.

ROSEMONT, IL - US Foods Holding Corp., one of America’s largest foodservice distributors, announced the launch of Fall 2025 Scoop™, the company’s latest line-up of new, Exclusive Brands products designed to help operators elevate profitability and streamline operations. Today, operators across the industry are facing an ongoing “profitability paradox,” the challenge of expanding menus with profit-boosting, innovative, and limited-time offerings, while managing increased food and operational costs. Fall Scoop helps operators tackle this challenge by delivering 18 highly versatile, on-trend products that can be used in a variety of recipes across multiple menu dayparts to help operators grow their menu with fewer SKUs. US Foods’ latest offerings give operators what they need to refresh their menu, cut waste, and boost margins.

“The number one strategy operators use to boost profits is adding new and limited-time offerings to the menu, but for the 80% of operators who identify food costs as their biggest operational challenge it can be difficult to strike the right balance,” said Stacey Kinkaid, vice president of product development and innovation at US Foods, in the recent release. “Whether it’s a brand-new signature dish, a refreshed favorite, or a customizable add-on, our goal is to help operators do more with less because we understand there is value in the versatility of products that operators can use in many different recipe ideas across the menu.”

Product versatility not only drives menu innovation but creates value for the operator by helping them streamline inventory management needs and manage food costs. While versatility has always been central to Scoop product innovation, Fall Scoop 2025 takes it one step further by delivering various on-trend usage ideas and interactive recipe solutions. These suggestions inspire menu innovation, while helping operators envision product cross-utilization across menu dayparts, recipe ideas, and customer preferences.

Fall 2025 Scoop includes products that save time and labor, transcend dayparts, and are on-trend for operators, chefs and customers alike. Highlights of these versatile profit drivers include:

• Monarch® Corn Ribs: A transformation of classic corn on the cob into innovative, visually appealing “corn ribs,” made popular on social media. By quartering cobs lengthwise, these pre-cut, individually quick-frozen, unseasoned corn ribs eliminate the labor-intensive and potentially hazardous task of cutting tough, round cobs. Deep-fry to crispy perfection or char on the grill for a smoky finish. Elevate with an endless array of sauces, spice rubs, dips or vibrant garnishes for an appetizer, side dish or base for a lunch or dinner offering.
• Rykoff Sexton® Diced Dragon Fruit: This tropical ready-to-use product is making a vibrant splash across menus nationwide. Beloved by Gen Z diners for its bold and trendy pink color, the subtly sweet, versatile flavor creates eye-catching breakfast bowls, vivid desserts or striking cocktails and mocktails.
• Cross Valley Farms® Ribbon Cut Hash Brown Potatoes: These ribbon-cut russet potatoes deliver a back-of-house appearance, while a distinctive size and shape provide versatile uses across the menu from breakfast to dinner. Deep-fry the potatoes to achieve crispy ribbon hash browns that can be used as a traditional breakfast side, burger topping or as the base for an innovative potato waffle recipe.
• Chef’s Line® Beef and Pork Ragu: Just in time for cooler months and as consumers look for comforting menu options, this labor-saving sous vide product is a hearty addition to menus no matter the time of day. The eight-hour cooking process ensures meat tenderness and depth of flavor that can be featured in a base for a pasta dinner, a midday sandwich or even a breakfast hash.
• Cross Valley Farms® Pineapple Pico De Gallo: A ready-to-use product that elevates any dish with Latin-inspired flavor. This fruit-forward, slightly spicy blend is perfect as a dip, a tropical butter sauce, pineapple chutney or inspiration for tropical cocktails and mocktails.
• Chef’s Line® Garlic and Herb Cheese Filled Muffin: Filled with Boursin™ cheese, infused with garlic and herbs and topped with zucchini, tomatoes, pumpkin seeds, chives, parsley and dried garlic, these muffins are ideal for breakfast, brunch or a gourmet side dish. Enjoy it solo, use it for sandwiches or pair with soups, salads or entrées across menus.

To view the full lineup of Fall Scoop™ products, visit the company’s website at usfoods.com/fallscoop.

GLENNVILLE, GA - Bland Farms®, America’s leading grower of sweet onions, is proud to announce a season of exceptional recognition. The company has earned the 2025 Grocery Insights Category Leadership Award in both Onions and Sweet Potatoes, while Director of Sales Sloan Lott has been appointed Chairman of the Board for the Southeast Produce Council (SEPC).

These honors spotlight Bland Farms’ enduring leadership in the produce aisle—driving retail innovation and shaping the industry’s future.

“For decades, our family has been committed to delivering fresh, exceptional quality produce from our fields to tables nationwide,” said Troy Bland, CEO of Bland Farms, in a recent release. “To be recognized in two categories—and to see Sloan lead SEPC under the banner From Fields to Families; Nourishing Our Nation—is a milestone that reflects our team’s passion and the values we live by.”

As the industry celebrates these achievements, Bland Farms reminds retailers and consumers that Vidalia® Sweet Onion season is still going strong through the end of September. Retail partners are encouraged to place final orders now to keep shelves stocked with America’s favorite sweet onion before the season closes.

With deep roots in Georgia and expanded operations in Peru and Mexico, Bland Farms continues to lead category growth and ensure year-round availability. From the world-famous Vidalia® Sweet Onions to the celebrated Sand Candy® Sweet Potatoes, Bland Farms remains committed to delivering fresh flavor, trusted quality, and produce innovation to both the industry and families across the nation.