NEW YORK - An apple a day keeps the doctor away—this saying was written for folks like me. As soon as there are only three apples left in my house, we restock. Fast. While the health benefits are many, it's the taste, texture, energy kick, and perfect portion size that make apples a staple in my diet, and I imagine it goes for consumers as well. As students head back to school, New York State apples are the perfect lunchbox companion—delicious, nutritious, and ready to fuel busy days.

“This year’s crop is estimated at 30.5 million bushels, and it’s bursting with flavor. From crisp and tart to sweet and juicy, New York apples offer something every child will love. They’re easy to pack whole or can be sliced and paired with peanut butter, almond butter, or cheese for a fun, balanced snack,” Cynthia Haskins, President and Chief Executive Officer of the New York Apple Association, shares with me. “The flavor of New York State apples is fabulous this year. Growers began harvesting in mid-August, and we are already hearing rave reviews.”

As a natural source of quick energy, thanks to their natural sugars, apples are as good for the body as they are for the taste buds. Rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber, apples support healthy digestion.

“Whether tucked into a backpack for lunch, served as an after-school pick-me-up, or enjoyed on the go between activities, New York apples are a smart choice for families looking to keep kids happy, healthy, and energized all school year long,” Cynthia details. “The New York Apple Association is also working closely with foodservice distributors and school districts to promote New York apples throughout the season.”

For those looking to further connect with schools, the association will attend the New York School Nutrition Conference, an opportunity to meet with more than 300 school food professionals across the state.

“There, we will showcase the versatility and flavor of New York apples, offering samples and sharing information on sourcing to help bring this nutritious fruit to more students’ trays,” Cynthia concludes.

An apple a day? Make it two, please.

MAITLAND, FL - The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association has honored BJ’s Wholesale Club with its 2025 Customer of the Year Award. The award was presented during FFVA’s 81^st annual convention at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes.

The annual award recognizes the important role that food service and retail merchandising play in the promotion and sale of fresh Florida produce. It is given to a valued partner that has worked with producers to promote Florida products.

“BJ's Wholesale has been a staunch supporter of Florida grapefruit for over 20 years,” said Steven B. Callaham, CEO of Dundee Citrus Growers Association and chair of the FFVA, in the recent release. “BJ’s continues to promote Florida products, and the positive ripple effect of their strategies from corporate down to store level is felt all the way through the supply chain.”

Founded in 1984, BJ’s is headquartered in Marlborough, Mass. In the last two decades, BJ’s Wholesale Club has expanded its physical presence in Florida and the Eastern United States while simultaneously deepening its commitment to Florida growers through strategic product placement and communication with their suppliers. BJ’s Wholesale Club operates the highest number of physical locations in New York and Florida, totaling more than 40 clubs in Florida alone.

The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association is an agricultural organization whose membership represents the majority of fruit and vegetable production in the state. Follow FFVA on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

CINCINNATI, OH - The Kroger Co. reported its second quarter 2025 results, updated guidance, and shared progress on key priorities in this recent release.

Comments from Chairman and CEO Ron Sargent

"Kroger delivered another quarter of strong results, which demonstrates the clear and measurable progress we've made on our priorities – to simplify our organization, to improve the customer experience, and to focus on work that creates the most value."

Second Quarter Financial Results

Total company sales were $33.9 billion in the second quarter compared to $33.9 billion for the same period last year, which included $718 million from Kroger Specialty Pharmacy sales. Excluding fuel and Kroger Specialty Pharmacy, sales increased 3.8% compared to the same period last year.

Gross margin was 22.5% of sales for the second quarter compared to 22.1% for the same period last year. The improvement in gross margin was primarily attributable to the sale of Kroger Specialty Pharmacy, lower supply chain costs, lower shrink, and decreased fuel sales, partially offset by the mix effect from growth in pharmacy sales, which has lower margins, and price investments.

The FIFO gross margin rate, excluding rent, depreciation and amortization, fuel, and adjustment items increased 39 basis points compared to the same period last year. The improvement in rate was primarily attributable to the sale of Kroger Specialty Pharmacy, lower shrink and lower supply chain costs, partially offset by the mix effect from growth in pharmacy sales, which has lower margins, and price investments.

The LIFO charge for the quarter was $62 million, compared to a LIFO charge of $21 million for the same period last year.

The Operating, General and Administrative rate, excluding fuel and adjustment items, decreased 5 basis points compared to the same period last year. The decrease in rate was primarily attributable to improved productivity and a favorable comparison to prior year, which included certain non-recurring charges, partially offset by the sale of Kroger Specialty Pharmacy.

See the full release here.