NOVI, MI - Lineage, the world’s largest global temperature-controlled warehouse REIT, announced it has completed acquisitions of two cold storage facilities in Sainte-Brigide-d'Iberville, Quebec from Entrepôt Congelé 10/35 (“EC”) and its affiliates. Lineage has also acquired a separate cold storage facility in the growing city of Laval, Quebec. Both acquisitions are strategically located near Montreal and expand Lineage’s footprint in Canada, a critical hub for the North American food supply chain.

The three newly acquired freezer facilities further bolster Lineage’s Canadian presence, which now spans more than 30 cold storage facilities, a press release stated. The additional capacity, paired with the strategic positioning of Lineage’s facilities and transportation network, strengthens the Company’s ability to help meet strong demand for temperature-controlled warehousing and end-to-end logistics solutions in the Canadian market.

In addition, Lineage is also expanding three of its existing sites in Canada. The Company held a groundbreaking ceremony on May 27 to mark the expansion of its Côte de Liesse facility in Montreal, which is ideally positioned for serving customer needs in Quebec and Atlantic Canada. Additional expansion projects are currently underway at Lineage’s Foothills location in Calgary, Alberta and its location in Vaughan, Ontario. The Foothills facility project includes an expected 1,500 pallet positions for blast freezing, a critical feature for the export of products like proteins. The Vaughan expansion will serve to meet additional demand in the highly populated Toronto market.

“Canada plays a vital role for food logistics in North America and globally. Our facilities are strategically situated near vital infrastructure that keeps goods moving – whether that’s down the road, across the border or beyond,” said Matt Cramer, President, North America East at Lineage. “Through our recent acquisitions and ongoing investments in our existing facilities, we continue to expand our footprint to meet the needs of our customers, aiming to be a trusted partner capable of handling their most complex supply chain challenges with our global facility network and wide range of services.”

The acquisitions and facility expansions, once completed, are expected to add a total of more than 13 million cubic feet and 68,335 pallet positions to Lineage’s Canadian footprint by mid-2026.

WASHINGTON - The Ethical Charter Implementation Program is excited to announce the launch of Engagement 2.0. This launch marks a major milestone in the ongoing mission of ECIP to raise the floor of social responsibility across the fresh produce industry.

ECIP LAB (Learn, Assess, Benchmark), the digital platform that provides actionable resources and rigorous self-assessment tools, will introduce several updates that have been shaped by user feedback. Changes include new resources, enhancements to the grower platform, updated engagement criteria, and a more user-friendly experience.

These updates are designed to support suppliers and growers at every stage of their continuous improvement journey toward more responsible labor practices.

Suppliers generate engagement profiles through their activity on the platform and by bringing their growers into the system. Their profiles are visible to retailers via the ECIP Buyer Dashboard, which helps buyers track progress toward alignment with the Ethical Charter on Responsible Labor Practices and highlights those suppliers who are most actively supporting grower participation.

Grower activity on the ECIP platform directly impacts supplier engagement profiles. Since ECIP is designed to promote responsible labor practices at field level, grower involvement is critical to improving engagement profiles for both growers and suppliers.

ECIP staff will host an educational event at the Organic Produce Summit on July 9, at the Memory Garden in Monterey, California. The session will preview the updated engagement profile, and major retailers will share remarks about how ECIP helps uphold their commitment to responsible labor practices.

A follow-up webinar for suppliers and growers will be held on July 14 at 10 a.m. PT to walk through Engagement 2.0 features and answer questions live.

“Engagement 2.0 represents the commitment of ECIP in meeting fresh produce operations where they are and helping them move forward in their social responsibility journey,” noted Peter O’Driscoll, executive director of Equitable Food Initiative, which manages the ECIP software platform and provides technical support, in the recent release.

The engagement thresholds and platform experience are designed with flexibility and reflection in mind, providing tailored guidance, useful resources, and space for operations to self-evaluate and grow. “We know that change can be daunting, especially for busy farming operations,” said Kenton Harmer, director of market-based impact for EFI. “Our goal with Engagement 2.0 is to make that next step more achievable and more effective, and to showcase the impactful work happening throughout the industry.”

As produce growers and suppliers prepare for these changes, they should keep the following key dates in mind:

July 14, 2025:

• Engagement 2.0 will launch.
• Buyer dashboards remain unchanged between July 14 and September 30, allowing time for growers to complete new self-assessments.

Sep. 30, 2025:

• Buyer dashboards reopen with new supplier engagement profiles that are based on the updated engagement criteria.
• Deadline for suppliers to qualify for the 2026 ECIP Leadership Circle and gain retailer recognition at the ECIP Leadership Circle in-person event to be held during IFPA’s Global Produce and Floral Show.

Building on last year’s success, ECIP will again recognize leading suppliers through the 2026 ECIP Leadership Circle. Eligibility will focus heavily on suppliers who successfully engage growers with the new criteria.

Through Engagement 2.0, ECIP continues its industry-leading work to professionalize and standardize responsible recruitment and ethical workforce management practices into the day-to-day operations of produce suppliers and growers. These efforts ensure the produce supply chain not only meets increasing buyer expectations but also builds a stronger, more resilient workforce.

To learn more about Engagement 2.0, visit ethicalcharterprogram.org/engagement2.

WASHINGTON - On March 16, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) filed an administrative complaint alleging Aggrigator Inc. of Watsonville, Calif., doing business as Amor Organics, violated the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA) by failing to promptly pay, in full, $264,268 to seven sellers, for multiple lots of produce purchased.

USDA and Aggrigator Inc. entered into a Consent Decision and Order wherein Aggrigator Inc. agreed to pay the unpaid produce sellers listed in the complaint, as well as a civil penalty in the amount of $35,000. Aggrigator Inc. has satisfied the terms of the consent decision and order, and the finding that it committed repeated and flagrant PACA violations has been permanently abated without further process. This case has been closed.

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

COALINGA, CA - The Harris family is deeply saddened to announce the passing of John C. Harris, a beloved husband, visionary businessman, and one of California’s most respected leaders in agriculture and thoroughbred breeding. He passed away peacefully at the age of 81.

Born on July 14, 1943, John was a lifelong resident of Fresno County, a statement from Harris Farms read. He attended local elementary and high schools before earning his degree from UC Davis. He proudly served his country in the United States Army.

John was a passionate farmer, rancher, and businessman who dedicated his life to stewarding the land and advancing California agriculture. As the driving force behind Harris Farms, one of the state’s most prominent and diversified agricultural operations, he championed innovation, quality, and sustainability in every endeavor.

For nearly 50 years, and continuing with his father’s legacy, Harris Ranch Beef Company experienced tremendous growth, delivering superior quality grain-fed beef worldwide.

He was also a nationally recognized figure in thoroughbred horse racing, known for breeding and racing many distinguished champions. His deep love for horses and the sport was matched by his leadership and advocacy within the industry, where he served as a mentor and ambassador for generations.

Beyond his professional achievements, John had an unwavering passion for helping people and supporting his local community. Whether through philanthropy, mentorship, or quiet acts of kindness, he consistently uplifted others and believed in giving back to the region and industry that shaped him. His humility, generosity, and integrity were hallmarks of his life.

John was recently married in June to his beloved wife, Cookie Harris, with whom he shared deep joy, admiration, and companionship. He is survived by Cookie, extended family, and countless friends and colleagues whose lives were enriched by his strength of character and enduring compassion.

A private burial ceremony will be held. A public celebration of life is being scheduled and will be announced soon.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Jack A. Harris Memorial Scholarship Fund, continuing John’s commitment to supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.

John C. Harris leaves behind a profound legacy—one defined by hard work, vision, and a lifelong dedication to community, service, and the values he held dear.

SAN ANTONIO, TX - The flavor that took the internet by storm just met its perfect match. NatureSweet® is teaming up with the McCormick® brand to give pasta salad a vibrant, crave-worthy twist just in time for the 4th of July. Featuring NatureSweet® Glorys® tomatoes and the viral McCormick® Perfect Pinch® Salad Supreme Seasoning, this summer-ready dish is equal parts fresh, flavorful, and fun.

“It’s a bold, fresh take on a backyard classic,” says Travis Laveault, Omnichannel & Digital Marketing Director at NatureSweet®, in the recent release. “Our tomatoes are known for their freshness and flavor, and partnering with the McCormick brand, who’s equally committed to quality and taste, makes perfect sense.”

The Summer Supreme Pasta Salad is bursting with fresh vegetables—juicy NatureSweet® Glorys® cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onion, and your choice of pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, or fusilli). Tossed with McCormick® Perfect Pinch® Salad Supreme Seasoning, this colorful, versatile dish is perfect for cookouts, picnics, or family dinners.

“This pasta salad brings together NatureSweet’s® juicy tomatoes and our crave-worthy seasoning in a dish built for celebration,” said Giovanna DiLegge, Vice President Marketing, NA Consumer at McCormick. “Salad Supreme® went viral because it instantly adds vibrant flavor to elevate everyday meals—and now, paired with NatureSweet®, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.”

Earlier this month, NatureSweet® introduced an even sweeter, more flavorful Glorys® variety—known for its standout color, texture, and signature burst. The McCormick® Perfect Pinch® Salad Supreme Seasoning adds the finishing touch: a savory blend of Romano cheese, sesame seeds, paprika, and poppy seeds. The gluten-free blend also adds vibrant flavor and color—just toss and serve.

The Summer Supreme Pasta Salad is the star of any summertime spread — and the recipe is available now on Walmart.com.

OXNARD, CA - Mission Produce® is a go-to source for fresh, organically grown avocados. With a full portfolio, the supplier offers organic avocados year-round. Brooke Becker, Senior Vice President of Sales, shared her insights on category growth.

“The organic avocado category in the United States continues to outperform the growth of conventional avocados,¹ demonstrating the importance of organics in driving the entire avocado category forward,” Brooke began telling me.

The demand for organic produce is growing, and Mission continues to invest additional resources into organic programs, pursuing innovative ways to support and develop the category.

“With organic avocado volume sales up 34 percent from 2020-2024,² the category continues to soar—and Mission is well-positioned to meet that demand with a robust organic lineup, including bulk offerings, our World’s Finest bags, and our Minis bags,” Brooke added.

According to Circana’s projected category volume growth from 2020–2025, organic avocados are anticipated to increase by roughly 31 percent.

“When it comes to trends in the organic category, the shopper profile skews toward millennial families, high-income households, Hispanics and Asians, and those with a high level of concern for health and the environment.³ Keeping these insights in mind is key to building a successful organic avocado program,” Brooke explained.

For bagged offerings, Mission provides its World’s Finest Avocados in small, large, and jumbo sizes as well as Minis in 84s and 96s. Bulk organic offerings are also available in small, large, and jumbo sizes.

“Organic avocado shoppers spend 142 percent more on avocados annually than conventional-only shoppers,³ so catering to this demographic is important for a successful and profitable avocado category,” Brooke said on a final note.

With the Organic Produce Summit taking place, now is the perfect time to up your category prowess. For all things avocados, Mission has you covered.

_^Sources:

1. _{^{Circana, Total U.S. MULO+. Calendar YTD through 6/9/24}}
2. _{^{Circana, Total U.S. MULO+, volume growth rates 2020 – 2024}}
3. _{^{Numerator Insights, Advance Shoppers Profile report, 12 months ending 4/30/2025}}

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - Uber Eats is making it even easier for customers to access fresh groceries from their favorite local and regional stores. Uber Eats has recently expanded its grocery delivery service to include new partnerships with the much-loved local brands Big Y and King Kullen in the Northeast, Superlo Foods, Lunds & Byerlys, and Foxtrot in the Midwest and Texas, and Vallarta Supermarkets in California.

This expansion reinforces Uber Eats’ commitment to growing its grocery category with beloved regional retailers, ensuring customers across the U.S. have access to the products they know and love with the convenience of on-demand delivery.

The latest additions build on Uber Eats’ momentum in the grocery space, complementing the platform’s national partnerships with leading grocery groups while catering to regional preferences and tastes.

Each of these retailers brings something unique to their communities, including Big Y’s commitment to fostering community growth through partnering with local growers and manufacturers, Foxtrot’s modern take on convenience store essentials, King Kullen's legacy as the nation's first supermarket, Lunds & Byerlys’ reputation in premium groceries, Superlo Foods’ daily cut Certified Angus Bees and Vallarta Supermarkets’ extensive selection of Latin American products.

For grocers looking to seamlessly offer delivery to their areas with Uber Eats, a smooth onboarding process is key. “Uber has been absolutely fantastic to work with,” said James Randall, Officer of Memphis-based Superlo Foods, in the recent release. “Working through integrations can be difficult, but they meet you where you are, and have the flexibility to adapt to you.”

Expanding Uber’s Regional Footprint

“Our goal is to provide customers with an unparalleled selection of grocery options, from national brands to the local retailers they trust most,” said Hashim Amin, Head of Grocery & Retail for North America at Uber. “With this latest expansion, we’re deepening our investment in regional grocery partners and making it easier than ever for customers to get their grocery shopping done from the comfort of their homes. We’re excited to continue building on this momentum throughout the year.”

Uber Eats has seen significant growth in its grocery division, with consumer demand for grocery delivery continuing to rise. The addition of these new regional grocers strengthens Uber Eats’ position as a leading marketplace for grocery delivery, providing seamless integration for customers, efficient fulfillment for retailers, and access to real-time tracking for orders.

Uber Eats’ grocery expansion aligns with its broader mission to provide convenience at scale, helping customers access the best of their neighborhoods with the tap of a button. By integrating regional favorites into the platform, Uber Eats is responding to growing consumer preference for local and specialty grocery options alongside national brands.

These new grocers are now live on the Uber Eats app, joining regional retailers including Meijer, The Fresh Market, Cub Foods, Giant Eagle, H Mart, Lowes Foods, Morton Williams, Save Mart Supermarkets, Stew Leonards, Weis Markets and more. For more information on Uber Eats grocery offerings and participating stores, visit the Uber Eats app.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL - Chiquita is going full sprint into summer at Atlanta’s legendary Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race and Peachtree Health & Fitness Expo presented by Publix, infusing the iconic July 4 event with signature flavor, fun, and a whole lot of yellow energy. Hosted by Atlanta Track Club, this 6.2-mile celebration draws tens of thousands of runners and fans each year, creating the perfect moment for Chiquita to connect with the community in an uplifting way.

Race day festivities will feature lively appearances from the Chiquita Banana Man, a fan-favorite character known for spreading smiles and posing for playful photo ops. At the Chiquita booth, guests can soak in the energy of the day and snap share-worthy moments with friends and family. And for runners crossing the finish line, there’s a tasty reward waiting: complimentary Chiquita bananas, nature’s perfect snack, to help them refuel and recharge.

To keep the spirit of celebration going, Chiquita will also distribute exclusive branded merch, adding a little extra flair and fun to participants’ race-day experience. More than 35,000 bananas will be handed out as runners complete the course, providing a delicious burst of energy and a cheerful Chiquita send-off to complete an already high-spirited day.

“We’re passionate about fueling joyful moments, and there’s no better place to do that than at the Peachtree Road Race,” said Juliana Furlan, Director of Marketing at Chiquita North America, in the recent release. “From the starting point to the finish line, Chiquita is proud to bring energy, encouragement, and support—because nothing powers a summer run quite like a Chiquita banana.”

Chiquita’s presence at the Peachtree Road Race is part of its larger mission to promote healthy, active lifestyles and foster meaningful connections with local communities. By combining wholesome nutrition with playful, high-impact experiences, Chiquita continues to solidify its role as a beloved household name that’s always ready to go the extra mile.

For more information on Chiquita Brands, visit www.chiquita.com, and to learn more about Chiquita's sustainability initiatives, click here. Please also find high-res images linked here.