WATSONVILLE, CA - It looks as though this year we will be having a blue Christmas, but not for the reasons Elvis sings about. According to recent California Giant Berry Farms reports, the global grower's partners are recording peak volumes of organic and conventional blueberries for the start of the winter season, and the trend is expected to continue on.
"We've started harvesting fruit from Chile that will provide for a constant winter supply of high-quality blueberries for export," said Nader Musleh, Executive Director of Internal Business Development. "Organic volumes from Chile are increasing with the release of moth-free areas, and conventional varietal changes are producing exceptional quality fruit."
This strong seasonal outlook for California Giant's blueberry supply comes after the company recently added new growers in Chile and expanded its acreage in the region. According to a press release, the grower is positioned to deliver increasingly high volumes following these program changes.
As with its Chilean crops, blueberry production in Mexico is expected to continually increase in the coming months as well, with the region's season currently in its early stages. Known for its strong spring harvest, Mexico is on track to produce as expected for California Giant.
"We're looking forward to another strong season in Central Mexico" added Rodrigo Aceves, Director of Operations, Mexico. "We are expecting high yields, larger fruit, and improved flavor profiles."
Here in the States, organic production out of California has begun earlier than in past years for the grower, with the first picks anticipated in early December. After that, a gradual increase in volume is expected with peaks in April and May.
California Giant's coastal organics program works hand-in-hand to complement the company's import program for the continuity of blueberry supply year-round. Currently, strong volume is eagerly awaited by the grower, as the United States supply of blueberries will bypass the port issues and delays that have been an ongoing hurdle for the produce industry.
"Overall, we've seen an astonishing year-over-year volume increase," said Markus Duran, Director of Bushberry Supply. "We are coming off Peru's largest production year ever. It broke its all-time high export volume for the third consecutive year. Demand and consumption exceeding the all-time high is exciting, and we look forward to keeping the strong momentum throughout the Chilean season."
In order to support the predicted influx of blueberries this winter, California Giant will employ several consumer engagement opportunities in order to build brand awareness and drive basket share for its fresh berries.
With all of that being said, too bad Elvis isn't around to see this kind of blue Christmas—I feel like he might be inspired to rewrite a classic!
WASHINGTON, DC - After allegedly failing to pay produce sellers a combined $62,195, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has imposed sanctions on Minnesota-based J&J Distributing as well as New York-based Produce Depot USA. In addition to failing to pay sellers a combined $62,195, the two businesses failed to meet contractual obligations to the sellers of produce and did not pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).
The sanctions imposed include suspending the businesses’ PACA licenses and barring the principal operators of the businesses from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without approval from USDA.
Direct from the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service:
The following businesses and individuals are currently restricted from operating in the produce industry:
- J & J Distributing Co., operating out of St. Paul, Minnesota, for failing to pay a $19,655 award in favor of a California seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, New Harvest Foods and Jason Jaynes were listed as the officers, directors, and major stockholders of the business
- Produce Depot USA, operating out of the Bronx, New York, for failing to pay a $42,540 award in favor of a Texas seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Gaetano Balzano was listed as member and/or manager of the business
PACA provides an administrative forum to handle disputes involving produce transactions; this may result in USDA’s issuance of a reparation order that requires damages to be paid by those not meeting their contractual obligations in buying and selling fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables. USDA is required to suspend the license or impose sanctions on an unlicensed business that fails to pay PACA reparations awarded against it, as well as impose restrictions against those principals determined to be responsibly connected to the business when the order is issued. Those individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors, or major stockholders, may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee without USDA approval.
By issuing these penalties, USDA continues to enforce the prompt and full payment for produce while protecting the rights of sellers and buyers in the marketplace.
For contact information, and to read the release in its entirety, click here.
YUMA, AZ - The expansion of the date category has been exciting to watch, especially as shoppers turn to the fruit for a variety of eating experiences. To meet increasing shopper demand, companies like Bard Valley Natural Delights® are strengthening date programs with product expansion and more. I spoke with David Baxter, Director of Marketing, to learn more.
“We just relaunched our date roll under the Mini Medjool sub brand. We made them smaller and more snackable, and upgraded the Almond recipe, as well. In addition to this, we’re launching three new organic flavors: Organic Cacao Coconut, Organic Cranberry Pistachio, and Organic Fruit & Nut,” David shared with me.
Bard Valley Natural Delights will be also be re-releasing its Dark Chocolate Covered Medjool Dates for the holiday season. This product will be available from now until Easter for special holiday gift-giving events.
As the company looks to the future, David noted that its focus on innovation will allow Bard Valley Natural Delights to pursue exciting opportunities.
“Our goal is to get more people into the category through products other than just whole and pitted dates. You can expect to see some very exciting updates in the future, as well as intriguing promotions in the new year focusing on health and wellness as folks reset their habits and set new goals,” David remarked.
As a one-stop shop for the category, Bard Valley Natural Delights differentiates itself by providing an innovative assortment of products, merchandising, and retail support. The company also launched its trade resources site to better support retailers’ efforts to grow the date category with their consumers.
Stick with AndNowUKnow as we continue to catalog the latest in the industry.
MONTEREY, CA - Organic Grower Summit (OGS) is a meeting of the organic minds, and those attending are about to walk into a melting pot of top-notch produce innovators. As we ready for the event taking place December 1–2, I reached out to several industry members to get the scoop on what they’re most excited for in the upcoming show.
Tonya Antle, Co-Founder and Executive Vice President, Organic Produce Network
“This will be our fourth annual Organic Grower Summit, and we host the event in Monterey, California, near Salinas Valley because that’s considered the fruit and vegetable basket of the world. It’s the perfect place to bring organic growers together with allied service suppliers to network, learn, and grow our businesses in a positive way that’s good for the environment, good for consumers, and good for the bottom line for farmers. The show also asks how we can best make that farmer the most efficient and effective organic farmer today.”
Michael Valpredo, President, Country Sweet Produce
“Working daily as organic farming operations, and realizing the challenges we face on the ever-changing cultural side, this community knows the tremendous value that OGS provides. It’s important to annually meet and showcase the ideas, new technologies, and share stories as organic growers.”
Scott Mabs, Chief Executive Officer, Homegrown Organic Farms
“The Organic Grower Summit is an event like none other, and the value on attending is always delivered. As an industry, it’s essential to have a dedicated space for organic farmers from across the nation to come together and share ideas. The stronger we will be if we can learn new tactics and ways to manage similar issues we all face. At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that we’re all in this together. The more we learn from each other and grow together, the better.”
Vic Smith, Chief Executive Officer, JV Smith Companies
“I’m looking forward to attending the Organic Grower Summit this year as I have missed it during the height of the pandemic. This is always a great show and we encourage our managers to attend. The informational sessions are very well done and, as always, the networking opportunities mean a lot to our group.”
Dick Piexoto, Owner, Lakeside Organic Gardens
“For the past three years, I have attended the Organic Grower Summit held in Monterey. It’s one of the biggest shows targeted to growers focusing on a wide gamut of subjects. I find a lot of value in the educational sessions, as the topics are on trend with innovations, technology, and pressing issues. Due to the pandemic, we have missed in-person events such as these. Establishing connections and relations with folks we normally don’t see is so important and has been greatly missed. On the exhibitor floor, the booths are filled with great technology so that farmers such as myself gain great insight and ideas we normally don’t see. Overall, this is a high-value show for growers.”
A lively show is ahead for those attending! AndNowUKnow will be at the ready for all the innovations the show is sure to spark, so keep your eyes peeled for that apple in your inbox!
BENTONVILLE, AR - A transition is kicking off at Walmart as the big-box chain has revealed that its current Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Brett Biggs will be stepping down this coming year. Having spent 22 years with the retailer, the Chief will be starting a new chapter in his career in both the for- and non-profit sectors.
“My time at Walmart these past 22 years has been incredible,” Biggs said. “It has been a privilege to work alongside Doug [McMillon], our leadership team, and the many talented individuals throughout the company and finance organization. Our company has never been stronger, and I believe we’re set up for continued success to serve customers and deliver a retail experience unlike any other company. Given the tremendous positioning and momentum of the company, now felt like the right time to transition to the next chapter in my personal and professional life. I want to thank Doug, the leadership team, the Walton family, and the Board of Directors for their tremendous support during my career.”
Biggs started at the retail chain in 2000, according to a press release, and as CFO is responsible for accounting and controls, corporate strategy and development, business planning and analysis, global procurement, internal audit, treasury, tax, and investor relations.
Prior to his current role, he held the position of Chief Financial Officer for Walmart International, Walmart U.S., and Sam’s Club. He also served as Senior Vice President of International Strategy, Mergers, and Acquisitions as well as Senior Vice President of Corporate Finance. Biggs was also the Senior Vice President of Operations for Sam’s Club.
Before joining Walmart, Biggs held various M&A and corporate finance positions with Leggett & Platt, Phillips Petroleum Co., and Price Waterhouse.
“Brett’s high character and strong leadership have played a central role during one of the most significant periods in the company’s history,” said President and Chief Executive Officer Doug McMillon. “His contributions have been a key to the important steps we’ve taken to transform the company on our omni journey. Brett has elevated the finance organization and strengthened the team through his commitment to excellence and talent development. We are fortunate to have benefited from his talents, and we appreciate everything he’s done for the company during his career.”
As noted in the release, Biggs will remain in his CFO role until a successor is named in the coming year. He will then support the transition, staying on as an associate until he leaves the company on January 31, 2023. As part of the transition, Biggs will also continue to represent the company as a Board Member on Walmart’s FinTech startup joint venture with Ribbit Capital.
Walmart has announced it will consider internal and external candidates before naming a successor to the EVP and CFO role that Biggs has served in since December 31, 2015.
How will this transition impact Walmart’s financial strategy and future expansion? Stick with AndNowUKnow to find out.
BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA - Although I’ve only been in the industry for a little over three years, I’ve witnessed innovation every step of the way. I recently attended a virtual event by CubicFarms, an ag-tech company providing efficient and localized food supply solutions. Afterward, I was fortunate to speak with its Chief Executive Officer, Dave Dinesen, about the company’s systems and its benefits to both buy and supply.
“The CubicFarms (CF) system grows fresh produce, herbs, plants, and microgreens indoors, anywhere. Our patented Crop Motion Technology™ moves hundreds of plants through the module on a growing path, maximizing cubic space while minimizing the use of natural resources and shortening the supply chain. Our technologies grow more with less—less land, water, energy, and labor, 365 days a year,” Dave shared with me.
As Dave explained, the system is a win-win for growers and buyers.
“Our technologies allow farmers to grow at commercial scale right where they live,” Dave remarked. “The efficiency and sustainability of our system makes both buyers and growers happy. The CubicFarms system uses 95 percent less water. To grow a head of lettuce in one CF system, it takes 2 bottles of water compared to 40 bottles needed for field farming. Our system is 52x more land efficient—the volume you grow in one CF module is the same amount you could grow in a football field.”
The CF system also uses less energy due to the crop motion technology moving plants through the module. As a result, only one set of lights is used at one time.
“We also produce 80 percent less waste with long chain food supply. With our CF system, our produce is living with the root attached, providing 45 percent more nutrients. Farmers can grow at a much higher rate with this 24/7, 365 days a year harvesting. Unaffected by climate, they can then harvest all year long,” Dave stated.
As global supply chain issues continue to dog the industry, I asked Dave how the CubicFarms system provides predictability in a constantly shifting market.
“The controlled environment leaves little room for unpredictability,” he asserted. “Our technologies were invented by farmers out of necessity due to drought conditions, and supply chain bottlenecks. By converting wasteful and unreliable long supply chain agriculture into local chains, our technologies profit and protect people, resources, and economies. Our CubicFarm Systems enable farmers to grow sustainably and efficiently. Combine this with growing public demand for fresh local produce, and the opportunities here are undeniable.”
We’ll continue to keep track of what CubicFarms is up to, so please stay tuned to AndNowUKnow for the latest.
FRESNO, CA - What makes the Christmas season an even more coveted holiday for the fresh produce department? The gift of continued California table grape availability through December and into the new year. As California Table Grape Commission’s (CTGC) Kathleen Nave shares, promotable volumes of the California crop will be available through December, allowing retail promotions and consumer advertising to continue through year-end in the United States, and in Canada, Mexico, and other key export markets.
“The U.S. is a good market for California grapes,” Nave, CTGC’s President, commented as she expressed her positive outlook, “and even better this season in terms of demand and price than it has been in recent years.”
Nave expressed that the U.S. retail commitment to stick with California through the month of December—as opposed to focusing on imported grapes—remains strong. In addition, Canada, Mexico, and Central America have all been particularly good markets this season with exports to Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan steady, according to a press release. This is all despite of the worldwide shipping issues—proving that the category is one to be rivaled.
At present, harvest is still underway in some areas, with a typical California season shipping throughout the U.S.—and to multiple export markets—into January. As Nave notes, this year looks to be no different. Fingers-crossed.
The commission also shared that late-season retail promotions in the U.S. and Canada include sales contests, retailer-tagged media support, and retail dietitian consumer-based outreach programs; advertising on digital television, social media platforms, digital and terrestrial radio, and shopping apps are part of the mix. The big window for advertising continues in December in Mexico and key markets in Central America. On top of that, retail promotions can be scheduled in those export markets and multiple others as well—opportunities not to be missed.
For retailers who thought the season might be closing come the end of November, it’s time to reignite those supplier communications to give consumers what they crave this month: California table grapes.
TORONTO, ON - There’s nothing like the smell of a fresh launch in the morning, especially when it is an entire line of launches. After much ado and innovation, The Star Group has unveiled three additions to its portfolio under a Just Fresh salad line.
“The Just Fresh salad line is launching with three tried and tested favorites that we’re excited to share with consumers. Plus, we have more flavors actively under development,” Kelly Shabatowski, Commercial Director for The Star Group, shares. “Just Fresh salads are currently available through retailers across Western Canada, and we are excited to continue to add to the new line’s distribution.”
Just Fresh salads come in convenient on-the-go packaging, delivering a Modern Caesar, Baja Burrito Bowl, or a Feta & Beet Bliss Salad to consumers’ fingertips. All that is needed is to open, flip, and shake to enjoy any of the individual-sized salads, which are all made in Canada with premium ingredients; fresh made dressings; a generous portion of toppings; and greenhouse-grown leafy greens.
“Each Just Fresh salad is made with sustainably grown greenhouse leafy greens from right here in Canada. The ingredients are separated into their own compartments for easy customer customization within any of the exciting options,” Kelly tells me.
The Modern Caesar lives up to its name, with fresh grated parmesan, crispy bacon, seasoned croutons, leafy greens, grape tomatoes, and a whipped garlic dill dressing. The Baja Burrito Bowl, however, brings those fresh southern flavors with juicy grape tomatoes, cheddar cheese, leafy greens, red onion, crisp red and green peppers, spicy jalapeño chips, brown rice and quinoa mix, corn, and jalapeño lime vinaigrette. Finally, for those seeking a state of calm, Feta & Beet Bliss Salad brings together deep red beets, carrots, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, hemp hearts, roasted and salted lentils, sunflower seeds, juicy grape tomatoes, leafy greens, and lemon honey dressing.
As the salad case continues to help expand the reach of fresh produce, AndNowUKnow will always bring you the latest.
WASHINGTON, DC - Recently, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that it had filed an administrative complaint against Sarasota, Florida-based Central Market of FL II. The complaint alleges that the business violated the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA) after allegedly failing to promptly pay eight produce sellers a total of $150,383 between November 2019 and May 2020.
Direct from the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service:
Central Market of FL II Inc. 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.
The PACA Division, which is in the Fair Trade Practices Program in the Agricultural Marketing Service, regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses that are operating subject to PACA, including buyers, sellers, commission merchants, dealers, and brokers within the fruit and vegetable industry. In the past three years, USDA resolved approximately 3,625 PACA claims involving more than $104 million. PACA staff also assisted more than 7,600 callers with issues valued at approximately $166 million. These are just two examples of how USDA continues to support the fruit and vegetable industry.
To read the release in its entirety, click here.
NOGALES, AZ - You know it’s a party when this group gets together. Between educational sessions, awards, festivities, and a golf tournament that brought out the best of the best, Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) has done it again—celebrating its 52nd Nogales Produce Convention and Golf Tournament.
“It had been a long two years since we last gathered the FPAA family,” said President Lance Jungmeyer. “From the networking to the golf to the education sessions, we received great feedback. We can’t wait to get together again for the FPAA Spring Policy Summit on March 16, 2022.”
The Nogales Produce Convention and Golf Tournament, which ran from November 4–6 at the historic Tubac Golf Resort and Spa, brought together industry members from a range of regions to address the top challenges, opportunities, and milestones within fresh produce today. Welcoming over 400 attendees, representation came from demographics throughout California; Washington, DC; Florida; Iowa; Kansas; New York; Oregon; Tennessee; Texas; and Mexico.
Bringing its best resources to the table, the FPAA kicked off the event with three educational sessions that followed a networking lunch. Each session brought a budding program of information, tools, and insights to the trade table. These sessions included:
- Building Up Arizona, Building Up Your Business: The event featured Juan Ciscomani, Senior Advisor for Regional and International Affairs from the Office of Governor Doug Ducey. Ciscomani shared infrastructural accomplishments for southern Arizona and the strong trade relationship between the United States and Mexico
- Bell Peppers and Squash—A Tale of Two Sectors: This session was presented by Dan Scheitrum, from the University of Arizona. This session provided attendees with the information gathered from a recent study focused on market trends for bell peppers and squash
- FPAA and The Power of Connections: This closing session featured a panel with FPAA members with key roles in national organizations. Panelists included Chris Ciruli, Vice-Chair, National Mango Promotion Board; Board of Directors, United Fresh Produce Association; Sabrina Hallman, Past President of the Arizona Seed Trade Association; Christian Murillo, Vice President, National Watermelon Promotion Board; Craig Slate, Past-Chairman, Texas International Produce Association; Tom Stenzel, President, United Fresh Produce Association; and Leonardo Tarriba, Chairman, Fresh Produce Association of the Americas, Grower-shipper Board at the United Fresh Produce Association
Next in the festivities lineup was the Opening Fiesta. But, before the party kicked off, the FPAA awarded Tom Stenzel with a Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his dedication to the industry. Jungmeyer touched on Stenzel’s contributions to the evolution of the fresh produce industry. These achievements included testifying before Congress on numerous occasions, his work with U.S. regulatory agencies, his involvement with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Committee of 100 leading trade association CEOs, and the United Fresh Start Foundation, according to a press relese.
The second day of the convention kicked off on November 5 where attendees began their morning with golf and joined the 5th Annual Culinary Showcase. This showcase was a culinary experience hosted by the FPAA, the Consulado General de Mexico en Nogales, and Visit Tucson.
The FPAA’s Gala Event and Award Ceremony was the icing on the cake for day two. Walter Ram, Vice President of Food Safety at Giumarra Companies was honored this year with The Pillar of the Industry recognition award, which highlights accomplishments for a member who has exhibited a history of volunteering time, effort, and impactful contributions to support the association and the fresh produce industry, the associated notes.
The final leg of the event wrapped with a second day of golf followed by a FPAA-hosted awards ceremony to announce golf winners for the weekend followed by an outdoor BBQ lunch.
Just in case you missed the event in 2021, FPAA has already announced its dates for next year, so mark your calendars now! The 53rd Annual Nogales Produce Convention and Golf Tournament is currently slated for November 3–5, 2022.