PALMETTO, FL - With Southeast Produce Council’s (SEPC) Southern Exposure comes a great opportunity to uncover all that the critical ag region has to offer. As a southern grower with operations in Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee, in addition to Mexico, Sunripe Certified Brands embodies the vitality of the region and the produce it provides.
“The southeast region represents a 12-month supply of the finest vegetables that are grown in the United States and, quite frankly, North America,” Chief Executive Officer and Operating Partner Jon Esformes begins. “We're really proud to be part of that farming and agricultural community, so it's natural for us to be excited about Southern Exposure, and it’s why we participate in all the SEPC shows.”
With farming operations spanning Florida to Tennessee, Sunripe is able to follow the sun each season, growing tomatoes in areas that provide the highest level of quality and consistency for its portfolio. The supplier’s Tennessee operation has expanded quickly over the last two years, allowing the company to achieve proximity that allows it to efficiently deploy resources and be in the most ideal farming regions for its fresh market tomatoes.
As the grower hits the show floor this week, Sunripe will be highlighting its fresh market, round, Roma, grape, and Cherry tomatoes as it connects with new and old faces and sets out to demonstrate the strength of the southeast region.
“Southern Exposure is a representation of the depth and power of southern agriculture. What we are really excited about is representing the southeast farming community to customers all across North America,” says Jon. “We’re also looking forward to seeing people that we do business with on a daily and weekly basis and being able to reconnect with them in person.”
There’s more to find at booth #939, so don’t miss out!
LEAMINGTON, ONTARIO, CANADA - It’s time to break out the berries! Nature Fresh Farms strawberries, that is. As spring sits on the horizon here in the Northern Hemisphere, consumers are going to be scouring the produce aisle berry patch for ripe, red strawberries, and the greenhouse grower has buyers covered with an excellent crop and increased volumes to help capture category sales.
“We want shoppers to have the opportunity to experience what a strawberry should taste and look like to help drive consumption for our retailer partners,” Matt Quiring, Director of Sales, explains. “That is why we strategically chose who to work with on this program, and together we consistently identified a need for better strawberries on shelves.”
Out of these partnerships, Nature Fresh Farms’ greenhouse-grown strawberries were born. The berries are cultivated in a controlled environment, ensuring the ideal climate and atmosphere to achieve the best possible product. All of this results in an elevated eating experience, quality, and shelf-life for consumers and retailers alike.
“Having gone through over two years of trials and R&D, we have been provided with the information necessary to ensure a successful start to our programs, which we are eagerly anticipating the full launch of,” adds Matt. “While we may be a newer supplier of greenhouse-grown berries, we are far from inexperienced and are looking forward to hearing how our berries deliver the experience shoppers don’t always get from a traditional berry in the stores.”
To grow these high-quality berries, Nature Fresh Farms has introduced a new berry greenhouse in Leamington, Ontario, Canada. This year, the company’s production area for its strawberries has increased from one acre to 15, scaling from roughly 300 cases of 10x12 oz packages per week to roughly 5,000 cases per week. In doing so, Nature Fresh Farms will be able to service a wider array of partners, including larger national accounts.
Kicking off the first picking of fruit the week of February 14, the crop is starting strong with fantastic quality and taste and sizing exactly where Nature Fresh Farms wants it. Volumes are also expected to ramp up quickly, hitting full supply by early March.
In terms of distribution, Nature Fresh Farms is currently set up to deliver its strawberries across the Midwest and Eastern provinces and states in Canada and the U.S.
“We have strategically positioned ourselves with partners that are looking to have a strong supply source that is consistently delivering flavor and quality to their shoppers,” Matt imparts.
If you could be one of those potential partners on the lookout for new strawberries to add to your produce aisles, get in touch with Nature Fresh Farms today.
NORWALK, CT - Wegmans Food Markets is making its entry into a new market as it kicks off its latest expansion plan. As recently announced, the retail chain is bringing its heightening grocery prowess to Connecticut with the introduction of its first location in Norwalk.
“Each year, we receive hundreds of requests from residents for a store in Connecticut, so we’re excited to bring Wegmans to Norwalk and to get to know our new neighbors,” said Colleen Wegman, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Even before we open the doors to our new store, we’re committed to making a difference in every community we serve.”
The new location will be located on nearly 11 acres of land off Connecticut Avenue, as noted in a press release. The two-level store will be approximately 95,000 square feet and will also include a multi-level parking garage.
A timeline for construction and opening has not yet been announced, as the retailer is currently seeking municipal approvals for the project. Operating since 1916, the grocer currently runs 106 stores across seven states, with over 50,000 employees chainwide.
Click here to read more about this upcoming expansion.
AndNowUKnow will continue to track this expansion blueprint and more as we report on all things taking place in the retail sector.
OXFORD, NC - The clock is ticking down toward the start of the Southeast Produce Council’s (SEPC) Southern Exposure event, and companies across the industry are putting the final touches on their showcases. Among them is Bailey Farms, which has announced it will be putting its sweet BellaFina® peppers, Hotties® line, and its farm expansion in Florida on full display.
“We are looking forward to showcasing our BellaFina’s, Hotties, and more at the upcoming SEPC show,” said Randy Bailey, President. “With our increased production and expanded facility in Florida, we are able to better serve our customers and provide a fresher product for the end consumer.”
BellaFina is a proprietary pepper variety with a delicious sweetness and a whole lotta crunch. As a press release noted, the pepper is 1/3 the size of a bell pepper, providing the perfect portion size for a singular consumer. Additionally, the pepper’s petite size offers versatility in the kitchen as well as an ideal price point for shoppers on a budget.
Joining BellaFina peppers in Bailey Farms’ showcase is its Hotties line, which consists of ten high-flavor varieties. Available year-round, this lineup includes the company’s popular Jalapeños and a myriad of other hot peppers to offer consumers as they explore global culinary trends.
Alongside its portfolio, Bailey Farms will be showcasing its new Estero, Florida, farm which places sustainability and food safety top of mind. The state-of-the-art facility uses computerized irrigation and automation systems, saving significant amounts of water and fuel.
Want to see the mix of sweet, spicy, and state-of-the-art for yourself? Stop by Bailey Farms’ booth, #615.
BOISE, ID - Deep diving into its ongoing growth plans, Albertsons announced the launch of a Board-led review of potential strategic alternatives. With growth and the maximization of shareholder value on the company’s mind, the review will assess the various documents, data, and ongoing plans to see if the development of new strategic initiatives is necessary to complement the retailer’s existing business model.
"The Board believes the continuing strength of our business and the scale of our portfolio of assets warrants a deep and considered review of all possible paths towards maximizing value creation,” said Chan Galbato, Co-Chair of the Board of Directors. “Albertsons operates more than 2,270 stores across 34 states with growing digital and omnichannel capabilities, along with a vast dedicated manufacturing and distribution infrastructure, which has become integral to the fabric of communities across the U.S. The Board believes that this review, coupled with an ongoing focus on accelerating our transformation strategy, will create enhanced value for all our stakeholders including our customers, associates, and investors.”
Throughout the assessment, Albertsons has retained Goldman Sachs and Credit Suisse to serve as financial advisors assisting in the review, a release noted. A timetable for the conclusion of the review has not been set yet, and the company has not made any official decisions regarding further actions or potential initiatives.
Albertsons stated that no assurance can be made that the review will result in any transaction or other strategic change or outcomes.
As more information on this review becomes available, AndNowUKnow will bring you the latest updates.
LOS ANGELES, CA - Melons, citrus, and grapes, oh my! As the Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Exposure show fast approaches, these are but a few of the categories attendees can look forward to seeing from Pacific Trellis Fruit and its Dulcinea® brand as they peruse the show floor.
“This year, we will be highlighting our spring and summer Dulcinea® and KISS® melons alongside our import citrus and Mexico grape programs,” Josh Leichter, Chief Executive Officer says. “We will also be participating in the Bright Ideas Showcase, spotlighting Dulcinea Cherries, as this was our first season packing premium cherries under the Dulcinea brand.”
Already resonating with consumers, the Dulcinea brand’s high-flavor, great eating quality products, including its popular melons, shine in the produce aisle, which show attendees can see for themselves at Southern Exposure.
“Our flavorful melon line-up is unlike others in the category,” explains Josh. “Our year-round program allows for strong visibility at the retail level with a known consumer brand. We are continuing to seek and produce new varieties with distinctive flavor for our retail partners.”
In addition to its wide array of unique products, Pacific Trellis will also be showing off its Dulcinea-branded packaging for its melons, cherries, grapes, stonefruit, and citrus. Available in a variety of pack sizes for retailers including fixed weight clamshells and bags, this eye-catching packaging is the perfect draw to entice consumers to try the flavorful fruit waiting inside.
To further boost its products and its retail partners, Pacific Trellis is providing robust marketing support as well as continuing to grow its portfolio of products to meet shopper and buyer needs.
“We are continuing to expand and diversify our supply base as the market demand is ever-changing. Consumers are seeking out new items on the shelves, and Pacific Trellis is continuing to stay ahead of the demand,” adds Josh. “Our products create differentiation for not only shoppers but our buyers as well.”
Want to learn more about Pacific Trellis and its enticing lineup of products? Stop by booth #219 to get a peek at the offerings that could be decorating your produce department.
SACRAMENTO, CA - The produce love was overflowing throughout the month of February, and we hope our 65th issue of The Snack Magazine communicates the joy and adoration we hold for this industry. Our cover contest was a resounding success this round, with two produce aficionados taking home the cash prize.
Our buy-side winner was quick to spot the hidden ANUK apple logo. Danny Ortiz, Quality Assurance Inspector at Sysco, landed in our inbox promptly after the competition was announced.
“Thank you to all the employees at ANUK for keeping us informed of what goes around us, a hard job well done!” he told us. “And like they say, we really learn something new everyday with these magazines.”
That’s why we’re called AndNowUKnow!
On the supply-side, Jacobs Farm del Cabo’s Marketing Manager Danielle Loustalot nabbed the $100 cash prize with a winning photo submission.
“I draw so much marketing and design inspiration from the curated and creative features The Snack provides, and look forward to receiving it every month!” Danielle said. “The contest is a fun way to show my Snack love and win a little extra dinero! Free money to treat myself to a little something from my shopping wish list while supporting our partners and friends is a win-win.”
For those who didn’t win our cash prize for February, we will have another competition coming up in our April issue! You can request a subscription to The Snack Magazine here (valued at $129 per year) to get in on the fun.
To earn our $100 cash prize, contest rules require submissions showing your smiling face while pointing at the ANUK logo on the cover of The Snack Magazine. The countdown does not begin until we announce the contest in our newsletter, and the subject line of your email must state “FOUND the Apple Logo.”
Cheers to Danny and Danielle on the big win!
TORONTO, CANADA - For anyone who has dealt in the springtime buy or sell of watermelons, you will understand their defining feature. They are big and bulky. Wherever they are in the supply chain, they take up lots of room. In a packing shed, on trucks, in storage, in a warehouse or on the retail floor. Heck, they even take up lots of room on a customer’s counter or inside their fridge.
It is this defining feature that makes watermelons such a challenge; oh, that, and the seemingly insatiable demand for the stuff, particularly during the lead up to the Victoria Day weekend in Canada (affectionately referred to as May two-four) and the Memorial Day weekend south of the border. But anyone who says a good challenge isn’t also a whole lot of fun hasn’t tried the challenge of buying or selling watermelon.
What is it about these May long weekends that create such a significant runup of massive watermelon volumes? I suppose being the unofficial start to summer, people are just itching to get their fill of the iconic fruit. This month, Produce Moneyball dives into this runup looking to better understand what lies ahead.
The accompanying graph details the 45-count seedless watermelon story throughout April and May. The cream-colored bars demonstrate the relative volume during these months. It is apparent that volumes rise dramatically leading up to week 19, coinciding with the May two-four buy. Volume remains steady and high for the balance of this period through week 22, coinciding with the end of the Memorial Day buy.
While last year costs started this period off on a high, testing $0.40 per pound, they quickly dropped to seasonal levels by the time the action began, even over-compensating, dropping to less than $0.20 per pound. This year, Produce Moneyball predicts less volatility with costs remaining in the 20's per pound while being at its low point for the big weekends during weeks 19–22.
Remember, look to Produce Moneyball to plan all your seasonal sales. While there is plenty of art to watermelon, you'll be happy to add some science.
Mike Mauti, Managing Partner, Execulytics Consulting
Leading the Execulytics team, Mike brings more than 20 years of experience as a leader in the fresh foods industry. Over this time, Mike has gained expertise in retail operations, procurement, and merchandising. Specific skills around grocery retailing, particularly in produce buying and selling, make Mike a valuable partner for suppliers and independent retailers alike.
WASHINGTON, DC - The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently filed an administrative complaint against H Brooks and Company (d.b.a H Brooks) for alleged violations of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).
Direct from the USDA Marketing Service:
The company, operating from Minnesota, allegedly failed to make payment promptly to 37 produce sellers in the amount of $3,812,292 from August 2019 through April 2021.
H Brooks 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 contact information, and to read the release in full, click here.
OXNARD, CA - Regional, intimate, and opportunity-packed, the Southeast Produce Council’s (SEPC) Southern Exposure event is just around the corner and building excitement as the date closes in. With leading-edge companies from across categories slated to converge in Orlando, Florida, we just had to put our finger on the pulse of some of these trailblazing exhibitors to discover what’s up, what’s coming, and what the message will be at 2022’s Southern Exposure.
Raina Nelson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Westfalia Fruit USA LLC, stands on the front lines of one of these operations and joined me to discuss the international program and what it means to be a company so invested in its vision.
“At this year’s SEPC, our key message will be sharing our story about why Westfalia is a global leader in avocados. We are #Avoexperts and are excited to bring this global expertise to the United States,” Raina shared with me. “We have such a rich history of innovation and sustainability that we remain anchored in today. Our resources, proficiency, and vision for the future support our mission to get a Westfalia avocado in the hands of every consumer in the U.S. We are thrilled to be exhibiting at Southern Exposure for the first time so stop by and learn more.”
As a fully-fledged, fully developed global company, these resources, advantages, and benefits Westfalia refers to are no small consideration.
“Westfalia’s global value proposition offers a first-class portfolio of services and products. We grow and operate a multi-national footprint from both established and developing growing areas and can determine the best supply routes to ensure year-round supply,” Raina expressed. “We create the most cost-effective methods to deliver our global products and create new ways of adding value to our stakeholders. We have the advantage of operating in numerous markets, which allows us to leverage our successes which is a huge advantage.”
So, how does a company achieve such high standards and execution? Raina reflected that Westfalia operates with the purpose to do good in all things.
“This is evident in our culture which is foundational to our existence,” she noted. “We are driven by our values and ethics, we are focused on the health and safety of our people, we strive to be innovative and agile, remain committed to sustainability, as we have been since our beginnings in 1949, and we are better together.”
You could call this operation a puzzle in many ways, with all pieces fitting intricately together. With superior growing and harvesting strategies, a pioneering research team—Westfalia Technical Services—developing superior rootstocks and cultivars, and Westfalia nurseries strategically located close to diverse worldwide growing areas, the company is more than interconnected.
“We have direct influence on quality and supply chain. We not only grow our own fruit but also source, ripen, pack, process, and market quality avocados year-round—all in a sustainable manner. We are experts at ripening avocados, and the U.S. market will surely benefit from the Westfalia model,” Raina stated.
This passion and intention are now focused heavily on the U.S. market in 2022 and beyond.
“Our vision for growth in the U.S. is exciting, and the support from our global leadership and boards are determined for success,” Raina added. “We will create a sales presence in every region and bring our proven global successes to the U.S. by creating channel leadership with new ways of adding value to the supply chain, services, and products.”
Also top of mind at this year’s Southern Exposure will be Westfalia’s sustainability initiatives.
With a trifecta of environmental, social, and economic (ESG) sustainability objectives at play across locales from Africa, Europe, South America to the USA, it is easy to see how Westfalia is making a huge impact on the way our global community lives.
“It begins with our global leadership’s commitment to sustainability based on the United Nation Sustainable Development Goals. We focus on ensuring our environmental commitments become an integral part of our day-to-day activities, and that we seek ways to continually improve our environmental performance and operate in a responsible manner, including reducing waste and reducing our carbon emissions,” Raina wraps, but still, there is so much more of Westfalia’s sustainability journey to tell.
More details can be found in the company’s Sustainability Story published here. And, please visit the Westfalia team at SEPC’s Southern Exposure March 3–5, and check out booth #936 for even more information and avocado love.