ANAHEIM, CA - As the IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show kicks off on October 16, Frieda’s Branded Produce is inviting the industry to its own backyard. With its headquarters and a 175,000-square-foot facility located only minutes from the Anaheim Convention Center, Frieda’s is transforming Booth 939 into a fresh produce experience that feels less like an exhibit and more like an open house—complete with trendsetting produce, retail inspiration and a few surprises that are still under wraps.

“When the IFPA Show comes to Anaheim, it’s more than an exhibit for us, it’s a hometown celebration,” said Alex Jackson, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Frieda’s, in a press release. “We’re opening our doors, showing off what makes Frieda’s special: the people behind the brand, passion for driving unit sales and a point of view that delights shoppers.”

Attendees can expect Frieda’s signature mix of bold flavor demos, inspired merchandising ideas and category-driving strategy, all delivered by a team that’s known for making its IFPA booth into a must attend gathering. And true to tradition, full booth details remain under wraps — but insiders know to expect memorable samples and some of the best-branded swag at the show.

A Fresh Take on Specialty Produce

With 80% of consumers across generations seeking variety in the aisles, Frieda’s proven record of turning “what’s that?” into “gotta have it” gives retailers a clear edge. This year’s booth will spotlight Frieda’s leadership in two fast-growing spaces:

Specialty roots: Frieda’s continues to lead the way in high-performing, healthy root vegetables. From Organic Stokes Purple® sweet potatoes—with their rich color and a cult following—to Mighty Gold® organic turmeric, known for anti-inflammatory benefits and peppery, earthy flavor, these standout items consistently outperform during the holidays and beyond.

Tropical category: From dragon fruit to coconuts to passion fruit, Frieda’s has a passion for transforming exotic items into everyday basket builders. Always on the lookout for unique items that are ready to go mainstream, Frieda’s Tropicals delivers discovery in every bite and sales in every display.

Ready to Turn Heads and Fill Carts

Frieda’s continues to lead the specialty category in both performance and presence. The brand holds the top spot as the number one distributed brand of Dragon Fruit and the number one coconut brand in dollars, units and volume. Across the board, Frieda’s is outpacing category unit growth by 39% and its branded items sell 30% faster than the next leading specialty brand, according to Circana three-year averages.

And behind that performance is a company that’s growing smarter and stronger. Since the 2024 IFPA show in Atlanta, Frieda’s has expanded its operational capabilities and integrated new systems that make it a stronger, more connected partner for retailers across the country. From category growth to flavor-first innovation, Frieda’s is ready to help buyers turn curiosity into conversion.

“We’re excited to connect face to face, talk strategy and help our partners turn shoppers into Frieda’s superfans,” added Jackson.

Don’t Miss Frieda’s Branded Produce at IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show:

• Booth #939, Global Produce & Floral Show
• Oct. 16-18
• Anaheim Convention Center

Schedule a Meeting

Want to talk category strategy, discover new shopper favorites, or just catch up? Schedule time with the Frieda’s team at Friedas.com or swing by Booth #939 and say hello.

SANGER, CA - Cobblestone Fruit, under the Kings River Packing LP umbrella, is pleased to announce the lease of a packing house facility in Reedley, California from Eastside Packing. This strategic investment is part of Cobblestone Fruit’s long-term expansion plan to increase packing capacity and operational flexibility, further strengthening its ability to serve its grower base and retail partners.

Eastside Packing will conclude operations at the facility on September 30, 2025, and Cobblestone Fruit will assume control of the site beginning October 1, 2025. It is important to note that this transaction is solely a facility transaction—Cobblestone Fruit will not be acquiring Eastside Packing or its business operations.

“This facility lease is a forward-looking move that aligns with our commitment to growth and excellence,” said Colby Campbell, VP of Operations at Cobblestone Fruit, in a press release. “By expanding our infrastructure, we’re better positioned to support our growers and meet the evolving demands of our customers with greater efficiency and responsiveness.”

The Reedley facility will enhance Cobblestone Fruit’s ability to manage seasonal volume and provide additional flexibility across its packing operations.

Cobblestone Fruit and Kings River Packing LP remain focused on strategic growth and continued investment in California citrus, ensuring the legacy of excellence continues for future generations.

KEASBEY, NJ - Wakefern Food Corp. announced the successful acquisition of Morton Williams, a family-owned neighborhood grocer with 17 stores in Manhattan, the Bronx and Jersey City. The move will preserve Morton Williams’ rich legacy and deep-rooted community connections while leveraging the resources of the largest retailer-owned supermarket cooperative in the U.S. Wakefern announced the purchase agreement in August.

“When a brand is so embedded in the community, it’s essential that we preserve that legacy. Wakefern brings the scale and support to help independent operators compete and grow while retaining their local roots that made them successful. As a cooperative made up of family-owned businesses, we also know how to honor that community spirit while delivering the technology and support needed to help grocers succeed in today’s highly competitive marketplace. That is why we are so excited that Morton Williams, a storied Manhattan grocer, is joining Wakefern’s family of brands,” said Wakefern President Mike Stigers in a press release.

Customers will find the same neighborhood feel, elevated shopping experience and fresh prepared foods at their local Morton Williams store, and Wakefern will retain all the team members across stores. Leadership from Morton Williams, including members of the Sloan family who established the Morton Williams brand in the 1970s, will also remain.

“There is an incredible, high performing team across Morton Williams stores and we look forward to working with them and learning from them as we bring the capabilities of our cooperative to the Morton Williams organization,” added Stigers. “We look forward to building on this great brand as we continue to bring high-quality, fresh foods and groceries to residents of one of the greatest cities in the world.”

A wholly owned subsidiary of Wakefern will operate the 17 stores in the tradition New Yorkers have come to expect, with special emphasis on fresh prepared meals, baked goods, produce and popular private label products from both Morton Williams and Wakefern.

“Wakefern is looking to the future with a long-term plan for sustainable growth for the next generations of our Membership. That means growing both within our cooperative – with our existing Wakefern members and banners – as well as making new acquisitions and expanding our wholesale distribution network. The acquisition of Morton Williams is part of our vision for the future, and we are thrilled to welcome Morton Williams to our Wakefern family,” added Wakefern Chairman Sean McMenamin.

Like Wakefern, Morton Williams has deep family roots. The family’s food business began in 1952, founded by brothers Joe and Irving Sloan. Joe’s sons, Morton and William, later expanded into supermarkets across New York City. In recent years, Morton Williams was guided by the third generation – Avi Kaner, Morton Sloan’s son-in-law; David Sloan, Morton’s son; and Steven Sloan, the son of William Sloan.

“Morton Williams has always been deeply connected to the neighborhoods we serve, and we’re proud to see that legacy continue under Wakefern’s leadership,” said Avi Kaner, speaking on behalf of the Sloan and Kaner family. “We’re confident that our team members and loyal customers will thrive as part of the Wakefern family. It’s reassuring to know the future of Morton Williams is in such capable and caring hands.”

Kevin McDonnell, currently president of Wakefern’s wholly owned subsidiary PRRC, Inc., which operates stores under the Price Rite Marketplace banner, will serve as the Wakefern executive leading Morton Williams. McDonnell is a 40-year supermarket industry veteran with broad experience in store operations, merchandising, marketing and management as well as extensive experience in operating stores in the New York City area.

“I look forward to working with the team at Morton Williams to continue delivering the service, quality and great fresh foods the brand is known for while bringing all the advantages and support of our cooperative to the table,” noted McDonnell. “The buying power of the Wakefern cooperative, which has more than 360 stores in nine states, and the legacy of Morton Williams service is a winning combination.”

To learn more, click here.

KINGSVILLE, ON - Mastronardi Produce® is excited to announce the launch of its newest snacking sensation SUNSET® Pop Its™ Bite-Sized Cucumbers™. This new cucumber brand, with a variety that is exclusive to SUNSET®, is a true one-bite cucumber, sweeter and crunchier than other two-bite cucumbers. Pop Its™ will make their debut at the International Floral and Produce Association (IFPA) Global Produce and Floral Show (GPFS), giving attendees the first taste of the next big thing in healthy snacking.

Visitors can pop by booth #4157 to experience the excitement firsthand and discover why Pop Its™ are as easy as Pop It, Dip It, Love It™! “We’re always looking for ways to make healthy eating fun and accessible,” said Geoff Kosar, VP Marketing at Mastronardi Produce® in a press release. “Pop Its™ are ideal for busy families, snack lovers, and anyone who craves fresh flavor with zero fuss.”

Greenhouse grown, non-GMO, and available year-round, these new cucumbers are sure to become a fast favorite. Available in retail and club formats, consumers will get their first taste of Pop Its™ soon.

Crafted for convenience, flavor, and crunch, Pop Its™ one-bite cucumbers are perfect for dipping, and ideal for on-the-go moments. Be among the first to experience Pop Its™ at the IFPA show and see why they’re the snack everyone will be talking about.

GROOTEBROEK, NETHERLANDS - Syngenta Vegetable Seeds recently hosted Fields of Innovation 2025 on September 23-25 in Grootebroek, the Netherlands, brought together growers and industry leaders from 62 countries around the world. The event featured an impressive display of around 400 unique varieties in the field, 120+ groundbreaking new entries and 50+ standout highlights, creating a premier platform for agricultural advancement and knowledge exchange.

The three-day event demonstrated Syngenta's commitment to addressing disease resistance, sustainable growing practices, and breakthrough products and technologies that are reshaping the future of vegetable production, a press release stated.

Shield Your Yield: Advanced Disease Protection Showcased

Attendees explored revolutionary advances in disease resistance that are already helping growers protect their bottom line. Our extended clubroot resistance in brassicas drew significant attention from cabbage and cauliflower producers facing this persistent challenge.

The 'Prediction' onion variety, with the most updated resistance pack against downy mildew, was a standout among visitors. Additionally, we featured a full portfolio of lettuce and spinach varieties with resistance to the latest downy mildew, including the challenging Bremia races BI: 41EU strain for lettuce.

Maximize Every Acre: Labor Solutions Drive Efficiency

The showcase featured innovative varieties designed to optimize land use and reduce labor requirements, with several receiving exceptional feedback from attendees:

"Our Cleanstem concept, Destinica cauliflower, and Superteam cabbage varieties are game-changers for labor efficiency. These varieties are bred for uniformity and easier harvesting, allowing growers to maximize their workforce productivity while getting consistent, high-quality heads from every acre," said Koenraad Meyns, Syngenta Brassica Product Specialist Manager.

Grow Beyond the Ordinary: Epivio Energy Steals the Show

The official launch of seeds treated with Epivio Energy emerged as a highlight in our sustainability efforts, with this innovative biostimulant drawing crowds throughout all three days. Field trialing confirmed Epivio Energy supports crop establishment and boosts growth under uncertain conditions to improve abiotic stress tolerance and its microbiome enhancement.

"The interest for Epivio Energy in our seed solutions exceeded our expectations," noted Remco Kwakman, Global Seed Technology Lead for Vegetable Seeds. "Growers were particularly interested in its added value to crop performance and resilience in our Onion and Spinach portfolio."

Industry Leaders Embrace Practical Solutions from Fields of Innovation 2025

Industry participants praised the event's focus on practical solutions that address labor challenges, disease pressure, and innovation, with many already implementing insights gained from the showcase into their growing operations.

"Fields of Innovation 2025 delivered on our promise to demonstrate practical solutions to real-world challenges," said Massimo Enzo, Brand and Customer Head for Europe, Africa and the Middle East for Syngenta Vegetable Seeds. "The conversations and connections made during these three days will continue to drive agricultural innovation forward."

The success of this year's event has raised the bar for Fields of Innovation 2026, which will take place September 22-24, 2025. Agricultural industry professionals are encouraged to reserve these dates for this essential showcase of cutting-edge farming innovations.

For more information and to stay updated with our latest news, visit our website at www.syngentavegetables.com.

SOLEDAD, CA - Braga Fresh, home of Josie’s Organics, announced a portion of its regenerative farming acreage has earned official certification for its regenerative farming program from A Greener World, a respected nonprofit certifier of sustainable agricultural practices.

The certification marks a major milestone in Braga Fresh’s fifth year of Carbon Capture Farming and now up to 100 organic acres of regenerative farming on the Braga Home Ranch in the Salinas Valley. The AGW certification applies to a 60.5 acre block on the Braga home ranch, currently growing organic romaine hearts and sweet baby broccoli in the Josies Organic brand, a press release noted.

A Commitment to Soil Health and Carbon Capture:

Braga Fresh launched its regenerative farming trials with two primary goals:

1. Rebuilding soil health to strengthen long-term productivity and resilience.
2. Capturing Carbon to help mitigate climate change.

“What if the answer to climate change lies in the soil?” Rod Braga, CEO, said. “If carbon capture farming can be a solution, then large-scale farming has the potential to become a force for good, for the people and the planet.”

How Braga Fresh is leading the Way

To achieve certification, Braga Fresh adapted its traditional organic farming practices through two foundational tactics:

• Reducing and changing tillage methods between crop rotations to preserve soil structure and microbial life.
• Using permanent plantings within crop beds to support biodiversity, root stability, and carbon sequestration.

Looking Ahead

The company believes that certified regenerative practices not only strengthen its Josie’s Organic regenerative program but also creates a replicable model for large-scale fresh vegetable and leafy greens farming.

“This certification is both a recognition of the progress we’ve made as a team, and a motivation to keep pushing forward and continue the learning,” said Jaylen Calabro, Sustainability Specialist, and lead for the certification process. “We’re proud to demonstrate how regenerative farming can scale in California’s Salinas Valley and beyond.”

For more information about the company, visit https://bragafresh.com/regenerative-farming-trials/.

GOLETA, CA - The International Fresh Produce Association’s (IFPA) Global Produce & Floral Show is an industry event not to be missed. Coming up this month, one exhibitor to mark on your show map is Apeel.

“At IFPA, we’ll be showcasing RipeTrack™, an AI-powered quality system that combines hardware with a complete software dashboard to provide faster, automated firmness and dry matter testing, calibration, and traceability solutions,” Julianna Shade, Director of Marketing, shared with me.

At the show, one of Apeel’s top goals is to demonstrate how AI-driven calibration and traceability can streamline operations. Additionally, the company will highlight the benefits of speed, precision, and trustworthy data for decision-making.

“We also want to show how RipeTrack integrates dashboards, traceability, and business intelligence to eliminate manual processes and scattered data,” Julianna shared. “We encourage attendees to request a live demo at booth #3331 and see the system in action.”

Visitors should walk away from the Apeel booth with an understanding that:

1. RipeTrack saves time and improves accuracy by providing lab-level, non-destructive dry matter readings in seconds.
2. AI-powered calibration adapts to their unique crops and conditions with minimal samples, eliminating manual recalibration.
3. Centralized dashboards provide complete visibility across firmness, dry matter, and other key metrics, helping teams stay aligned.
4. The system evolves with data, enabling smarter harvest predictions, reporting, and decision-making over time.
5. Ultimately, RipeTrack is not just a testing tool, it’s a complete quality system that enhances both traceability and operational efficiency.

If you plan to be at the show this year, be sure to stop by booth #3331! And stick with ANUK as we bring you more show coverage.