LAKELAND, FL - Publix was named to the PEOPLE Companies that Care list for the sixth straight year. The list recognizes companies in the U.S. that are successful in business while also taking great care of their people, the communities where they operate, and the environment.

“At Publix, we are dedicated to the dignity, value, and employment security of our associates and believe it’s our responsibility to give back to the communities we serve,” said Publix Director of Communications Maria Brousin in the recent release. “We are honored to be recognized as a company that cares about our people and communities.”

Care for associates

Publix is committed to being a great place to work and offers a comprehensive benefits package to its associates. This spring, the company enhanced its mental health benefit that, among other resources, provides free counseling sessions to associates as well as their household members and dependents under the age of 26. Publix is also the largest employee-owned company in the United States, offering associates the opportunity to become company owners through its employee stock ownership plan, 401(k) plan, and employee stock purchase plan.

Care for communities

The company takes its role as a responsible member of its communities seriously. During Hurricane Helene in September 2024, Publix stores in the hardest-hit areas were among the first to reopen after the storm to provide residents with a gathering place to rest, charge their cell phones, and use Wi-Fi to contact family and friends.

Meals, drinks, food, and ice were donated to those affected and first responders in the immediate aftermath and again after Hurricane Milton three weeks later. The company also provided other necessities like personal hygiene products, cleaning supplies, and pet food.

Care for the environment

Publix is focused on doing good for the environment throughout its operations. Efforts include restoring water in the Florida Everglades, tree plantings to support reforestation efforts in the Southeast, coral reef restoration in two South Florida national parks, improving fuel usage in transportation, making its stores and support locations more energy efficient, offering sustainably and responsibly sourced seafood options in stores, and implementing an expansive recycling program across its operations.

During the company’s Good Together environmental campaign in April, Publix associates and customers donated more than $2.6 million to help care for and protect natural resources in the company’s eight-state operating area.

Methodology

In compiling the list, PEOPLE partnered with Great Place To Work to analyze surveys and data from more than 8.2 million employees on their experiences of how their workplaces have made a difference in their lives and communities. Rankings also reflect Great Place To Work’s assessment of the generosity of each organization’s benefits and its philanthropic and community support, with a particular focus on activities that occurred in the last year.

To read about the ranking and see the PEOPLE Companies that Care list, visit greatplacetowork.com/companies-that-care/2025.

Publix, the largest employee-owned company in the U.S. with more than 260,000 associates, currently operates 1,412 stores in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Kentucky. For 28 consecutive years, the company has been recognized by Fortune as a great place to work. In addition, Publix’s dedication to superior quality and customer service is recognized as among the top in the grocery business. For more information, visit the company’s newsroom at corporate.publix.com/newsroom.

MARLBOROUGH, MA - BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. announced its financial results for the thirteen weeks and twenty-six ended August 2, 2025.

“Our business model continues to perform and build upon momentum, as we grow membership and gain market share even in a dynamic environment. We enter the back half of the year on solid footing and confident in our ability to deliver strong results,” said Bob Eddy, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, BJ’s Wholesale Club, in the recent release. “We are on a powerful trajectory, and our teams remain steadfast towards executing on our long-term objectives.”

Additional Highlights:

• Total comparable club sales decreased by 0.3% and increased by 0.6% in the second quarter and first six months of fiscal 2025, respectively, compared to the same periods in fiscal 2024. Excluding the impact of gasoline sales, comparable club sales increased by 2.3% and 3.1% in the second quarter and first six months of fiscal 2025, respectively, compared to the same periods in fiscal 2024.
• Membership fee income increased to $123.3 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 compared to $113.1 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2024. Membership fee income increased to $243.7 million in the first six months of fiscal 2025 compared to $224.5 million in the first six months of fiscal 2024. The increase in both comparative periods was primarily driven by strength in membership acquisition, retention, and higher tier membership penetration across both new and existing clubs, as well as the increase in annual membership fees, which became effective in January 2025.
• Gross profit increased to $1.01 billion in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 compared to $956.6 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2024. Merchandise gross margin rate, which excludes gasoline sales and membership fee income, increased by 10 basis points over the same quarter of fiscal 2024. Gross profit increased to $1.98 billion in the first six months of fiscal 2025 compared to $1.84 billion in the first six months of fiscal 2024. Merchandise gross margin rate increased by 20 basis points compared to the first six months of fiscal 2024. The Company continues to manage the business to drive profitable growth across the broader merchandise assortment.

• Selling, general, and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) increased to $786.4 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 compared to $750.3 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2024. SG&A increased to $1.55 billion in the first six months of fiscal 2025 compared to $1.47 billion in the first six months of fiscal 2024. The increase in both comparative periods was primarily driven by increased labor and occupancy costs as a result of new club and gas station openings. Additionally, an increase in the number of owned clubs has resulted in increased depreciation expense year-over-year.
• Income before income taxes increased to $206.1 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 compared to $190.9 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2024. Income before income taxes increased to $398.7 million in the first six months of fiscal 2025 compared to $337.7 million in the first six months of fiscal 2024.
• Income tax expense increased to $55.4 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 compared to $45.9 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2024. Income tax expense increased to $98.2 million in the first six months of fiscal 2025 compared to $81.7 million in the first six months of fiscal 2024.
• Net income increased to $150.7 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2025 compared to $145.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal 2024. Net income increased to $300.5 million in the first six months of fiscal 2025 compared to $256.0 million in the first six months of fiscal 2024.

See the full release here.

LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE, CA - The Allen Lund Company is pleased to announce that it has been selected as a 2025 Top 100 3PL Provider by Inbound Logistics.

Inbound Logistics is the leading content provider for business logistics and supply chain professionals seeking to build responsive, demand-driven operations. Through their print and digital platforms, they provide actionable insights that help businesses match supply to demand more effectively, reduce inventory, and optimize infrastructure (more information is available at www.inboundlogistics.com).

Felecia Stratton, Editor of Inbound Logistics, shared in the recent release, "By combining forward-thinking strategy with cutting-edge technology and deep logistics expertise, the Allen Lund Company has proven its ability to drive supply chain efficiency for today’s most demanding enterprises. Inbound Logistics is proud to recognize ALC as a 2025 Top 100 3PL Provider."

Each year, Inbound Logistics evaluates hundreds of companies to identify the third-party logistics providers best equipped to meet—and exceed—the evolving needs of their readers.

For 2025 award consideration, judges reviewed more than 400 candidates, selecting the 100 3PL providers that offer operational excellence, innovation, customer service, and proven performance.

Eddie Lund, Chief Executive Officer, stated, "We are grateful to Inbound Logistics for this recognition. We strive to provide solutions to our shippers and carriers in a meaningful way, and it is gratifying to have this highlighted by such a reputable organization. As we reach our 50th year in business in a few months, we will continue to innovate and strive to improve the supply chain that we all count on."

NEW YORK - Fall is upon us, which means retailers should be gearing up for an opportunity to spotlight “big flavor.” Reigniting its The Big Flavor in the Big Apple NYC campaign for the third year, New York Apple Association (NYAA) is rolling out an integrated media plan, combining traditional advertising, digital and social strategies, merchandising materials, and customized retail promotions to increase visibility, drive sales, and celebrate the quality of New York apples.

“It's all about the flavor. That's what differentiates New York apples from any other growing area,” Cynthia Haskins, President and Chief Executive Officer, shares when I ask about the foundation for this advantageous campaign. “We had a great promotion last year, and we want to continue driving the point that big flavor is what we deliver.”

New York produces more than 250 apple varieties, with over 30 available in promotable volumes. Many are sold through retail chains and direct-to-consumer markets like farm stands, U-pick orchards, and farmers' markets. To bring the big flavor of New York-grown apples to the forefront, NYAA is rolling out a robust marketing plan. Several high-visibility strategies comprise this marketing push, including:

• A large digital billboard in Times Square, in addition to 225 digital billboards strategically placed across all five boroughs
• Targeted social media showcasing grower-created content telling the New York apple story.

As part of this strategy, NYAA has launched a grassroots social media campaign spotlighting the collective voice of New York’s 500 apple growers. The initiative features behind-the-scenes orchard stories, photos, and videos to connect consumers directly to the grower experience.

Last season, The Big Flavor in The Big Apple campaign generated over 300 million impressions across billboards, 600 King buses, TV coverage during the TCS NYC Marathon, and geotargeted digital ads. A similarly strong performance is expected for the 2025 crop year, supported by branded display shippers and point-of-sale materials, consumer-friendly packaging for in-store promotions, and digital video ads highlighting growers, orchards, and key varieties. New York apple shippers will also offer various packaging options this season—including poly bags, pouches, totes, and tray packs—to meet diverse consumer preferences.

“Build great fall-themed merchandising displays that really build excitement with consumers when they walk in,” Cynthia advises retailers. “Cross-merchandising with apple cider and everything that pairs with the two can build excitement and motivate the consumer to reach for more New York apples.”

Further building out this campaign, NYAA will promote the health benefits of consuming New York apples through a series of social media content delivering on Big on Flavor, Big on Nutrition, featuring Kelly Springer, registered dietitian for the New York Apple Association.

NYAA will also attend the NYS School Nutrition Association conference in October and participate in the NYS Farm to School Summit, which is slated for February 2026.

“We want to remind all of the school foodservice directors and their staff that New York State is the country's second largest producer of apples. For schools in NYC and around the state, we're right in their backyard,” Cynthia adds. “These conferences allow us to support them further and let them know we are here to provide them with the resources needed to do their job the best possible way.”

The 2025 crop kicks off mid-August, with early-season varieties such as Paula Red, Ginger Gold, Jonamac, Zestar!, and Premier Honeycrisp. SweeTango®, McIntosh, Gala, SnapDragon®, Macoun, Empire, EverCrisp®, Fuji, Red Delicious, RubyFrost®, and many others will follow in September and October. Harvest will wrap up in the state’s northeastern region in early November, depending on weather conditions.

As the New York apple season gains steam, don’t miss out on this opportunity to draw consumers in with big flavor!

WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has filed an administrative complaint against Anusaya Fresh United States LLC. The company, operating from California, allegedly failed to make payment promptly to 11 produce sellers in the amount of $277,471.50 from March 2024 through September 2024, in violation of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).

Anusaya Fresh United States LLC will have an opportunity to request a hearing. Should USDA find that the company committed repeated and flagrant violations, it would be barred from the produce industry as a licensee for three years, or two years with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond. Furthermore, its principals could not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee for two years, or one year with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond.

For more information, contact the Investigative Enforcement Branch at (202) 720-6873 or [email protected].

CALIFORNIA - As families shift into back-to-school routines, the demand for convenient, nutritious, and kid-approved snack options surges. For retailers, this annual transition presents a ripe opportunity to align merchandising strategies with consumer needs—and Grapes From California will ace the test. Whether packed into lunchboxes, enjoyed during after-school activities, or grabbed on the go, they deliver on what parents value most: freshness, reliability, and ease.

“The start of the school year is a busy time for families, and California grapes are an easy way to keep kids fueled and happy,” said Ian LeMay, President of the California Table Grape Commission. “They’re fresh, healthy, and delicious—exactly what you want in a snack for your family.”

Such benefits position grapes as the A+ snack choice for busy households. California grapes will drive shoppers to the produce department on their own, or they can be used in RD-approved power-pairing snack recipes to keep the entire family fueled and satisfied during back-to-school activities.

Help consumers simplify their back-to-school routines by positioning California grapes as a go-to staple across lunchbox, snacking, and meal occasions. With high consumer appeal, nutritional value, and merchandising flexibility, grapes offer a high-impact addition to seasonal sets, driving basket size and repeat purchases.

“California grapes are nature’s convenience food—no peeling, pitting, or chopping required. Simply rinse and enjoy. Their naturally sweet taste makes them a kid favorite, while their nutrient profile earns high marks from parents,” Ian details. “Grapes are a natural source of beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols, which help promote antioxidant activity and protect cell health. They’re also hydrating, containing over 80 percent water, a good source of vitamin K, which is important for bone health, and offer potassium, supporting healthy blood pressure.”

With more than 25 years of research supporting their “superfood” status, California table grapes have been celebrated for their role in promoting heart health, supporting brain function, and contributing to overall well-being. Whether tucked into a lunchbox, served as an after-school snack, or enjoyed as part of a balanced meal, grapes offer both taste and nutrition.

For a refreshing upgrade to traditional trail mix, prepare this Fresh Grape Trail Mix in under five minutes. And if shoppers are headed to the field and want to fuel the whole team, these Grape Almond Bliss Balls are a crowd favorite that supports a healthy brain, heart, and immune system.

The Golden State’s grape season is in full swing, with fresh grapes available through the end of the year. With more than 80 varieties grown, shoppers can choose from red, green, or black grapes to match their taste preferences—or mix all three for a colorful, appealing snack.

WASHINGTON, DC - Building on the accreditation status it received in July from the United Nations Environment Programme, the International Fresh Produce Association advocated on behalf of its membership and the global produce and floral community at the recent UN global plastics pollution treaty in Geneva, Switzerland, with IFPA Chief Science Officer Dr. Max Teplitski representing the organization.

The statement below on the outcome of those negotiations may be attributed to Dr. Teplitski.

The failure to pass the global plastic pact represents a significant missed opportunity for both the fresh produce industry and the broader international community. This pact was widely regarded as a final attempt to establish a pragmatic approach to addressing plastic waste and its environmental impact. Without such an agreement, the regulatory landscape will become increasingly fragmented, as individual countries and municipalities move forward with their own policies to control plastic use and disposal. This patchwork of regulations will create substantial challenges for international trade, forcing exporters to navigate a complex web of compliance requirements that vary from market to market. The result will be increased costs, reduced market access, and a heightened risk of non-tariff trade barriers that undermine the efficiency and competitiveness of global supply chains. 

For the fresh produce industry, the implications are particularly acute. Modern crop production requires access to a variety of tools, including plastic mulches, irrigation pipes, shade cloths, and coverings. Many products require packaging for transportation, extended shelf life and quality, and compliance with traceability standards. The absence of harmonized rules means that producers must adapt to often divergent standards, which may not always reflect the unique needs of the industry or the advances already made in reducing reliance on single-use packaging and reducing plastic waste. While the industry remains committed to sustainability and innovation, having invested in compostable, recyclable, and reusable packaging options, the burden of research and development should not fall solely on producers. Collaborative solutions are needed, with governments and stakeholders working together to identify alternatives that maintain product quality and safety while advancing environmental objectives. 

Ultimately, the failure to pass the global plastic pact risks stalling progress on plastic waste reduction and sustainability. It is essential that future efforts prioritize pragmatic, common-sense solutions that balance environmental goals with the practical realities of production and trade, ensuring that the industry’s voice is heard and that innovation is supported across the value chain.