BOSTON, MA & SAN DIEGO, CA - As it sets out to help suppliers optimize the supply chain and reduce loss and damage, Tive has formed a dynamic new tech-forward alliance, teaming up with audit and consulting services provider Shipware to bring enhanced cost reduction and loss prevention solutions to the entire supply chain.
"Tive is committed to seeing that customers' shipments are delivered on time and in full. As we expand to LTL and parcel shipments, it was natural to partner with Shipware, which is focused on operational efficiency and reducing costs associated with loss and damage," said Tive Chief Executive Officer and Founder Krenar Komoni. "We look forward to contributing real-time data to Shipware's set of cost-saving solutions and providing superior service to our shared customers through this partnership."
As many logistics professionals face the challenge of boosting operational efficiency while also reducing overhead costs to build increased resilience across their supply chains, the dynamic alliance presents several opportunities for operational optimization. Tive’s tracking solution allows shippers to monitor the location and condition of their shipments in real-time, reducing product loss and damage. In addition, Shipware offers customers end-to-end analysis and recommendations of best-in-class solutions, which reduce parcel and LTL shipping costs by 10 to 30 percent, as noted in the release.
Shipware’s services reduce costs for shippers and third-party logistics providers with no disruption to current operations, according to a press release. The company will optimize Tive’s real-time, hyper-accurate location and condition data and real-time alerts to provide a key advantage to its mutual customers.
"We are always looking for ways to add additional value to our client's entire supply chain. Tive helps fill an important role in the tracking and visibility of OTR shipments to ensure goods and products make it to the final destination. This has become more and more important with the current state of global supply chains to prevent massive loss or theft of goods and provide realistic delivery times to customers," said Rob Martinex, DLP, Founder, and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Shipware. "Combined with Shipware's services for parcel and LTL delivery in the domestic United States, Tive and Shipware together provide holistic tracking of an organization's supply chain."
To see how the innovative new collaboration brings more fortitude to the fresh produce supply chain, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
JACKSONVILLE, FL - The demand for convenience continues to maintain its grip on the retail sector, driving many grocers’ latest strategies and alliances. One such retailer is Southeastern Grocers (SEG), which has teamed up with DoorDash to provide on-demand grocery delivery from over 400 store locations in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
“We are always looking for opportunities to meet the evolving needs of our customers throughout the communities we serve,” said Adam Kirk, Senior Vice President of Marketing Operations for Southeastern Grocers. “Our partnership with DoorDash is a progression of our e-commerce capabilities that allows us additional opportunities to provide our customers with the quality and value they expect in our stores with the convenience of online shopping.”
SEG will offer tens of thousands of grocery items for delivery—including fresh produce, dairy, bread, fresh meat and seafood, and the company’s selection of Own Brands products—via DoorDash.
“As consumers continue to crave speed and convenience with their grocery delivery, we are committed to making the experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible,” noted Shanna Prevé, Vice President of Business Development, DoorDash, in a press release. “We are thrilled to partner with Southeastern Grocers to offer consumers across the southeastern United States a convenient option to order their favorite grocery products at the tap of a button. Whether grabbing an ingredient for tonight’s dinner or stocking up on weekly groceries, consumers can now get what they want, when they want from their favorite SEG banner store on the DoorDash app.”
Further attracting consumers to the convenient offering, all participating Winn-Dixie, Fresco y Más, and Harveys Supermarket stores will be available on DashPass, the industry ally’s membership program.
AndNowUKnow will stay tuned to find out how this unique new partnership impacts the demand for fresh produce, so keep an eye out for our next update.
KOELN, GERMANY - As we enter the last week of December, we’re often left in a state of reflection. We look back over 2021 on our challenges, triumphs, and determination in order to make 2022 even better. GLOBALG.A.P. is one such company casting a thought over the past year as it released its Year in Review.
One sponsorship the company highlighted in its Year in Review was the November Conservation Alliance for Seafood Solutions Annual Meeting. GLOBALG.A.P is an active member of the Alliance, which represents over 100 organizations across 22 countries. In this way, the company is actively involved in changing the supply chain, working to improve sustainability and responsibility around the world.
You can learn more by watching the video below.
From sponsorships to recognitions to commitments, the brand of smart farm assurance solutions took us through a year of accomplishments. For more information on GLOBALG.A.P.’ s efforts and achievements throughout 2021, please click here.
When one door closes, another opens. The feeling of the new year is upon us, and we cannot wait to see what’s on the other side.
Be sure to keep an eye out for AndNowUKnow for the latest in industry news!
OXNARD, CA - Facing adversity head on, Mission Produce has showcased the resiliency of the fresh produce industry after releasing its fourth quarter 2021 financial results. Despite a myriad of challenges hitting the supply chain, the ongoing impacts of the pandemic, and other hurdles, the produce purveyor managed to end the quarter with $237 million in revenue, a 15 percent increase from the same period last year.
“Our business faced significant headwinds in the fourth quarter. Mexico’s challenging supply dynamic, port delays and logistics issues, and the variability in consumer shopping patterns due to the ever-changing COVID conditions negatively impacted our profitability,” explained Steve Barnard, Founder and Chief Executive Officer. “Despite these challenges, our business remains resilient. We are well-positioned to navigate through short-term disruptions while we continue to leverage our competitive advantages to further expand our industry-leading position.”
In addition to increased fourth quarter revenue from the period ending October 31, 2021, Mission also saw a rise in revenue for the entire fiscal year. In the report, the company reported $891.7 million in revenue, a 3 percent increase from the year prior. Adding to its success, Mission reported a net income of $44.9 million, a $16.1 million bump from $28.8 million the previous year.
Looking toward the future, Mission is optimistic that its strategic investments and operations will fuel ongoing long-term growth for the company.
“…Our owned production in Peru performed in line with our expectations, producing record volumes in fiscal 2021 and creating a reduced reliance on the fluctuating Mexican supply. Our vertical integration and multiple sources of supply year-round give us an unparalleled competitive advantage within the industry. Further, the strategic investments we have made to increase our capabilities and capacities, such as our mega facility in Laredo, Texas, which significantly increases our capacity during peak times during the year, and the continued expansion of our footprint in key international markets, gives us confidence in our future long-term success,” continued Barnard. “As we look to 2022, we are confident in our ability to drive sustainable long-term growth with our forward-thinking strategies and global footprint.”
To read the report in its entirety, click here.
With its eyes on future expansion and a well-laid strategy locked in place, how will Mission evolve in the new year? Keep a tab open for AndNowUKnow to find the answers.
HOUSTON, TX - Sysco is ramping up to unwrap the gift of growth in 2022, as it has tapped a trio of industry aces to strengthen its leadership ring. The distributor recently announced that Ali Dibadj, Jill M. Golder, and Alison Kenney Paul have been appointed to the Board of Directors, bringing the company’s Board Member count to 13. All recent appointments will be effective January 1, 2022.
First up on the expanded roster is Dibadj, who currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer and Head of Strategy at AllianceBernstein Holding L.P. (AB), a role he has held since February 2021. Prior to that, Dibadj served as AB’s Head of Finance and Head of Strategy from April 2020 to February 2021, and in 2019, he co-led AB’s Strategy Committee to help management chart a strategic vision and course of action.
Dibadj joined AB in 2006 as a Senior Research Analyst, where he was ranked #1 twelve times for his coverage of consumer companies, according to a press release. He also spent nearly a decade in management consulting with companies such as McKinsey & Company. Throughout his nearly-25-year career, Dibadj has gained experience in finance and accounting, leadership, communications, investor relations, risk management, mergers and acquisitions, and strategy development.
The second Board Member, Golder, most recently served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store from June 2016 to December 2020. Previously, she served in finance leadership roles at Ruby Tuesday, including as Executive Vice President and CFO from June 2014 to April 2016. She is a foodservice finance executive with deep expertise in the areas of accounting, audit, financial reporting, communications, investor relations, distribution, supply chain, and risk management.
Broadening her foodservice expertise, Golder also spent 23 years at Darden Restaurants, where she served in finance positions for several brands, including Senior Vice President of Finance for Olive Garden, Smokey Bones, Specialty Restaurant Group, and Red Lobster.
The third leader to join the Board of Directors is Paul, who has served as Managing Director, Global Alliances at Google since August 2021. In this role, Paul leads a cross-functional team and go-to-market strategy for Alphabet’s Google Cloud business unit. She has also served Deloitte as Vice Chairman and U.S. Leader of the U.S. Retail and Wholesale Distribution practice from August 2008 to June 2021, as well as Senior Manager in the Consumer and Retail Industry from 2002 to August 2008.
Throughout her career at both corporations and professional service firms, Paul has developed extensive experience in the areas of executive leadership, finance, human resources, talent management, global operations, marketing, sales and merchandising, strategy development and digital technology, and cybersecurity.
These new directors were appointed in connection with the Board’s ongoing refreshment efforts, and will stand for reelection at Sysco’s next Annual Meeting of Stockholders on November 18, 2022, as noted in the release.
“We are very pleased to welcome Ali, Jill, and Alison to our Board,” Edward D. Shirley, Chairman of the Board, commented. “Together, their strong leadership, new perspectives, and critical knowledge from experiences across a range of industries will be extremely valuable to Sysco as the company works to achieve its customer-centric Recipe for Growth strategy."
Congratulations to all new Board Members on their recent appointment! AndNowUKnow will keep a close eye to see what growth lies ahead for the distributor in 2022.
NOGALES, AZ - The importance of our essential workers cannot be overstated. It is in our industry’s nature to face challenges head-on, and the men and women making this possible are true heroes. Honoring them is the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA), which hosted a breakfast event on December 15, 2021, as part of its 2021 Member of the Year celebration.
“This community which is so rich and vibrant would be impossible without the women and men who keep the produce companies going,” said President Lance Jungmeyer. “Likewise, the produce community proudly recognizes the contributions of FPAA Member employees.”
This past fall, FPAA announced the Essential Worker as the 2021 Member of the Year recipient. According to a release, the Essential Worker represents all those who contributed to the success of a secure food supply during the last year. This includes anyone from warehouse workers to administrative staff, as the award was dedicated to all the employees of FPAA member companies.
As we head into the new year, FPAA will continue to highlight the contributions of the essential worker.
During the event itself, those attending had the chance to enter a raffle with prizes ranging from TVs to the grand prize of five Disneyland Park tickets.
The raffle winners are as follows:
- Sound Bar - Irene M. (SunFed)
- Laptop – Carlos C. (Community Food Bank - Nogales)
- TV – Gabriela L. (Malena Produce Inc.)
- TV – Mariana C. (Del Campo Supreme)
- Disneyland Park Tickets - Carlos V. (Del Campo Supreme)
Access to healthy food was crucial during the last year, and the FPAA proudly celebrates and recognizes fresh produce workers for their dedication and commitment during the pandemic.
We echo FPAA’s thanks to the essential workers that made 2021 possible!
DES MOINES, IA - Looking to make the ambitious move from regional grocery brand to national chain, Hy-Vee has rolled out a blueprint for expansion into four new states by 2023. The West Des Moines, Iowa-based retailer recently announced that it will be staking its claim in three southeastern states and Indiana as part of a larger growth strategy.
“This is the growth for the next 25 years for Hy-Vee in this territory,” Randy Edeker, Chief Executive Officer, said in a video obtained by The Des Moines Register. “If we can build out 50 stores in this market, we estimate that is $6 billion [in sales]. But overnight we’re going to go from a regional company to a national company. As we build our third DC [distribution center] in the Nashville market you will see us turn more into a national presence.”
Moving forward, Hy-Vee plans to open more than 20 new stores in these regions by 2025, as well as its third DC in Nashville, Tennessee, according to the news source. The DC, which is the company’s first distribution facility outside of Iowa, will initially serve seven new stores in Indiana, Tennessee, Alabama, and Kentucky, in 2023 in addition to its existing stores in southern Missouri.
Hy-Vee currently intends to open two of these seven stores in the Nashville metro area, one in Knoxville, and one in Memphis, Tennessee. Additional stores will be located in Huntsville, Alabama; Louisville, Kentucky; and Indianapolis, Indiana.
“You take a look at this map and you see this massive hub of over 50 cities of over 150,000 that are within five hours of Nashville, Tennessee, and that is the strategy that we are starting to think about,” Edeker continued in the video, referencing a map of the southeast region the company is expanding into. “We could open a new distribution facility in Nashville, Tennessee, or that vicinity, and then launch a dozen or so stores over the next two years in that market.”
As this expansion kicks off, select employees will be relocating to the Nashville region as early as January 2022. Hy-Vee currently has over 93,000 employees at more than 285 stores in eight Midwestern states: Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
This will be Hy-Vee’s first time entering a new state since 2009, when the company expanded into Wisconsin. Before that, the retailer hadn’t increased its nationwide footprint since 1988.
How will this four-state expansion spur further nationwide growth for Hy-Vee? AndNowUKnow will continue to report.
THE PRODUCE UNIVERSE - To all of our dear friends and peers, Happy Holidays and thank you always for your viewership. It has been a year full of beautiful challenges, amazing opportunities, and new paths of growth for many—and we are grateful to walk alongside you through them all.
As we wrap up 2021 and look to the new year, some of our industry’s trailblazers wanted to share their greetings and appreciation as well! So, to them we turn…
Denis Jennisch, Senior Manager of Produce Operations, US Foods
“2021 was a year that we hoped brought back normality in our lives and businesses, and also the promise of seeing our friends and associates. What we learned and validated was the resilience of our friends, associates, and business partners. In challenging times, we all come together to support each other and deliver the product that we have chosen as our career path. Looking to 2022, our continued passion, partnerships, and resilience in the business we love will deliver the results that meet our customer and business needs. Merry Christmas and a fulfilled 2022 to all.”
Michael Valpredo, President and Co-Founder, Country Sweet Produce
“It’s been another memorable year, and a welcomed bit of relative calm, compared to 2020. It’s fascinating to watch our industry and consumers adjust to the ever-changing world we live in. As always, we try and embrace it, feeling very fortunate to be continually working toward progress, innovation, and new partnerships. We want to wish everyone the happiest of holidays and look forward to a fantastic start of 2022!”
Teri Miller, Senior Category Manager, The Fresh Market
“Most of us would say that the past two years have been stressful. However, hopefully, we each have received many blessings under the COVID veil. One of those blessings for me is my first and only daughter-in-law. She is perfect for my son, and I’m so very grateful. My husband survived a bout with COVID—it was a scary 24 hours. A dear friend is recovering from a life-saving surgery—to my Canadian friend, you are dear to us in North Carolina. I miss my friends in the industry tremendously and was like a little girl when I recently saw most of you at Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Innovations. You all make me a better person.
Yes, it’s been tough and very easy to sit in our own frustration, but there are blessings for us. To all that know me well enough for a hug, I miss you and still hold you dear in my heart! Hugs to all of you, and see you in 2022!”
Dan Canales, Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Processing, Ippolito International
“This last year and a half has not only been trying for our industry, but I would say the whole world. There has been some good and bad from the pandemic, but, overridingly, I think it has positively impacted how much we value our family and friends and has helped us reassess what is most important in our lives. While Zoom and video conferencing have filled a need, I cannot express just how much I value us being together in person. This holiday season, I hope we all realize why we work so hard for our families, but also remember to balance that hard work with taking the time to enjoy our families and friends. I know sometimes I even need to be reminded of that. I wish everyone a safe, happy, and fulfilling holiday season.”
Mike Roberts, Director of Produce Operations, Harps Food Stores
“Every holiday season, I always feel we have a responsibility to help make everyone’s Christmas and New Year be the best it can be by having fresh fruit and vegetables available for them and their loved ones! I feel very humbled that we accomplish this to the best of our ability every year. I also feel very blessed to be in the industry I am in and all the phone calls, texts, emails, and Christmas cards I receive from friends and colleagues around the country. 2021 was quite a challenge, but as we always do, we found a way to provide great products to our customers with the help of so many great people and companies! 2022 should be a piece of cake after the last two years. I am ready for another great year in the best industry in the world! Merry Christmas!”
Keep warm, well, and safe out there, my friends! We will see you all soon in 2022!
NEW ZEALAND - One thing that is always pleasant about the holiday season is the spirit of giving that lingers in the air. However, not everyone waits until the winter months to give back to those who need it. T&G Global division T&G Fresh’s successful charity Fairgrow, which works to provide food-insecure communities with year-round access to fresh produce, has reached an impressive new milestone. One year since its creation, the program has donated its one millionth kilogram of fresh produce to Kiwis in Need across Aotearoa.
“We know this past year has been challenging for many Kiwi families, with widespread increased demand for food support. As a country of nutritious fresh food producers, it’s vital we work together and support those who need it most,” said Gareth Edgecombe, Chief Executive Officer of T&G Global. “Together with our network of growers, we’ve ensured one million kilograms of surplus produce, or produce without a commercial home, has not gone to waste. I’m immensely proud of our combined efforts, and this huge milestone reflects the generosity of our growers and partners.”
According to a recent release, Fairgrow has aligned with growers from across the country to collect surplus and donated fresh produce to be distributed by the New Zealand Food Network and its network of community food rescue organizations and charities. In addition to gathering produce from grower partners, as well as from T&G’s own business, Fairgrow also raises funds to buy produce to donate when it’s not in season or not readily available.
“Along with the financial contributions from T&G, we’ve welcomed the support of our partners and our team members via our employee matched giving program to help ensure a consistent supply of donated produce year-round. These funds were vital in the wake of New Zealand’s nationwide COVID-19 lockdown, which resulted in surges in demand for food support,” added Edgecombe.
The one million kilograms donated is equal to the amount of 5.5 million servings of fresh produce being distributed directly to food insecure communities.
“The most recent lockdown has exacerbated existing food insecurity levels with demand for support reaching an all-time high,” explained Gavin Findlay, Chief Executive Officer of New Zealand Food Network. “While many of our food hubs have been working tirelessly on the ground getting food into our local communities, ensuring there is enough food to go around has had its challenges. Fresh produce from Fairgrow and its network of growers has made an enormous difference, giving families the nutritious food they need.”
As the supplier continues to support the communities it serves and those in need, AndNowUKnow will keep bringing you the latest updates, so stay tuned.
SANTA PAULA, CA - Ever since Calavo Growers announced the retirement of James Gibson back in September, we here at AndNowUKnow have been keeping close watch to see what talented industry stalwart will man the helm next. Today, the avocado maven has pulled back the curtain on its latest move, appointing Brian W. Kocher as President and Chief Executive Officer of the company.
"I am thrilled and privileged to join and lead Calavo for its next phase of growth and transformation,” Kocher said. “I'm excited about the actions and initiatives that are in place and look forward to accelerating the impact of those initiatives while capitalizing on consumer trends that support Calavo's growth. Most importantly, I am honored to join a team focused on the success of our customers and each other."
Before joining the team at Calavo, Kocher held the position of President and Chief Executive Officer of the Castellini Group of Companies, as noted in a press release.
Prior to that, he obtained vast produce industry expertise by occupying several other executive positions, including Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer and Interim CEO, at Chiquita Brands International.
“After conducting a thorough search, including interviews with several well-qualified candidates, Brian Kocher was the clear choice of our Board of Directors to become the next President and Chief Executive Officer of Calavo Growers,” said Calavo Chairman J. Link Leavens. “Brian’s deep knowledge, expertise, and operational leadership in the fresh produce industry as a CEO, COO, and CFO make him uniquely qualified to lead Calavo forward and position our company for growth. We are delighted to welcome Brian to our talented team.”
Kocher will officially occupy the role of CEO as of February 1, 2022, succeeding Steve Hollister, who has served as Calavo’s Interim CEO since September. Upon Kocher’s appointment, Hollister will return to serving as an independent member of the Board of Directors.
“I am honored to have led Calavo as Interim CEO during this important time for the company and would like to thank all of our employees for their dedication and commitment,” Hollister said. “Along with the Board of Directors, I strongly believe the future of Calavo will be in great hands under the leadership of Brian Kocher.”
Congratulations to Brian Kocher on his new role as CEO! As the distinguished leader identifies new paths to growth for the company, ANUK will keep an eye out for the latest moves and strategies.