FRESNO, CA - Transitions, as crucial as they are exciting, are the connective tissue to year-round supply. One team that has this connection smooth and ready to flex is Baloian Farms. Currently on the cusp of its Thermal and Bakersfield, California, bell pepper seasons, the company is wrapping the former and headed into the latter with no gaps in sight.
“Volumes are lightening up as we get ready for our transition to Bakersfield the second week of June. Quality out of Thermal is still very nice and production is doing a good job of putting up a really nice pack,” Susan McLaughlin, Marketing Coordinator, shares. “Markets are mostly steady. Volumes will be lighter on green bells in particular until Bakersfield really gets kicked into gear mid-June.”
Price-wise, Susan adds that current markets are lower compared to the same time last year for both retail and foodservice packs.
“Pricing was in the mid-20's on the retail grades and in the high teens on the foodservice packs. This year retail grades are trading in the high teens while choice is in the low teens,” she shares, adding that transportation continues to be a challenge across the industry. “Truck rates are really expensive—well above average—and the availability of trucks is down dramatically. This is forcing customers to minimize their number of picks and load as many items as they can each time they stop the truck.”
This last aspect is one Baloian Farms can assist its customers with, having a versatile range of offerings it is well versed in mixing and matching on the truck.
“We are also performing consolidation services at our Fresno location to help our customers,” Susan tells me. “This benefits our customers due to our expanded line of products we are offering in Fresno, such as peppers, eggplant, hard squash, sweet red onion, chili peppers, zucchini, yams, sweet potatoes, and cucumbers.”
In addition to Thermal and Bakersfield, California, Baloian Farms grows throughout the state of California and Mexico. Thermal kicks off the spring from the beginning of April before the company moves north through Bakersfield, Fresno, Stockton, Hollister, and Oxnard, circling back to Thermal in the fall. Once the cold weather starts creeping in, the company transitions to Mexico’s Baja California, Sonora, and Sinaloa, completing a 12-month offering to its buy-side customers.
As we too continue to follow the seasons, AndNowUKnow will ensure that you stay up to date on all the latest.
WEST DES MOINES, IA - With technology playing some role in almost every part of consumers’ lives, why should grocery shopping be any different? To boost its digital capabilities both in-store and online, Hy-Vee has revealed its partnership with Google Cloud to stay on the cutting-edge of innovation within the retail sector.
The multiyear partnership will feature a suite of services powered by Google Cloud to make online shopping easier for consumers who use Hy-Vee’s Aisles Online Services while integrating new elements to optimize the shopping experience.
“The pandemic accelerated many digital initiatives for Hy-Vee as consumers shifted the way they shopped at our stores,” said Aaron Wiese, President, Digital Growth, and Co-Chief Operating Officer at Hy-Vee. “Google Cloud is helping us provide a unique and more personalized experience as we work to integrate all our digital platforms and look to further simplify the customer’s interaction with our services—whether that be in our aisles in person or online.”
Looking to stay on the forefront of the skyrocketing digital shopping sector, Hy-Vee will utilize Google Cloud’s solutions, localized information, and features to make it easier for shoppers to complete their orders online. According to a press release, this will allow Hy-Vee to provide more personalized service; simpler ordering, pickup, and delivery; and predictive shopping carts.
The new upgrades to Hy-Vee’s online ordering system will also include the integration of its virtual dietitian services, as well as the ability to schedule COVID-19 vaccinations online. All of these innovative implementations allow Hy-Vee to sidle up to grocery moguls such as Amazon and Walmart, both of which have leveraged technology to continue growing their footprints.
“Hy-Vee is leading the way in bringing innovative technologies to its customers,” said Jim Anderson, Managing Director for Google Cloud. “We’re proud to partner with Hy-Vee to streamline processes and power innovative digital experiences. As they look toward the future, our services will help accelerate the grocer’s plans to be the best place to shop.”
In addition to its partnership with Google Cloud, Hy-Vee has also recently launched its Hy-Vee Plus membership and is working to provide more perks and benefits to consumers. This includes personalized coupons and an integrated shopping experience across its app in addition to a better overall online shopping experience. The partnership with Google Cloud will only inspire further innovation and expansion of these benefits.
With the partnership already underway, how will Google Cloud’s digital enhancements affect Hy-Vee’s position in the retail market? We here at AndNowUKnow will keep an ear to the newswire for the answers.
FOWLER, CA - The seasons are changing, and transitions abound—not only for those looking to switch up their everyday routines, but for the produce industry as well. Bee Sweet Citrus is one supplier transitioning its focus to move with the seasons, announcing that as its domestic California citrus season nears its end, the company’s annual summer citrus program is raring to go.
“Over the past 25 years, our team has established long-term relationships with two respected Chilean growers,” stated Sales Representative Joe Berberian. “Through these ongoing partnerships, our team can offer customers a 12-month citrus program, supplementing them with oranges, mandarins, and lemons year-round.”
During the summer months, Bee Sweet Citrus receives oranges, lemons, and mandarins from its offshore partners, a press release noted. Not only is the company’s production team trained to facilitate the program, but Bee Sweet’s sales team oversees all import clearance, logistics, and inventory. The sales and production teams also conduct weekly market analysis calls with their international partners—a strategy that certainly sharpens the supplier’s competitive edge.
As Bee Sweet’s summer citrus program prepares to launch, the company still has domestic Navel oranges, lemons, mandarins, and grapefruit available for buyers.
“All imported citrus is brought to our main facility in Fowler where it undergoes a thorough quality control procedure before it’s shipped out to customers,” stated Sales Representative Jason Sadoian. “Our customers also have the option to re-pack any offshore product to meet specific pack styles throughout the program.”
So, will your produce department be transitioning along with shoppers and suppliers this summer? I’d bet that the answer is, “yes.”
LOS ANGELES, CA - As the summer heat kisses the skin of consumers here in the Northern Hemisphere, Dulcinea® Farms’ exclusive Kiss melon varieties are hitting the produce aisles. Just in time to greet shoppers as they rush to fill their baskets with tantalizing melons of all varieties, Dulcinea’s Kiss offerings have everything retailers need to meet rising demand and inspire summer snacking.
“Retailers benefit from being able to cross-promote Kiss melons with other Dulcinea-branded offerings, including PureHeart® Mini Seedless Watermelon, Sunny Gold® Yellow Watermelon, Tuscan Style® Cantaloupe, premium grapes, and citrus,” Josh Leichter, Chief Executive Officer, tells me. In other words, Dulcinea has everything you need to stock up your aisles this season. “Due to the variety’s unique flavor profile, retailers can also leverage in-store signage that allows shoppers to better understand each Kiss melon offering.”
Kiss melons are grown in Yuma, Arizona, and California’s San Joaquin Valley, with their season lasting from May through November. Already, demand for the melon varieties from both retailers and consumers has been high, and to meet that surge, Dulcinea will be offering significantly more volume this season. As Josh explains, shoppers search out Kiss melons because they fall in line with their desire for premium offerings and new flavors.
“Consumers are increasingly seeking out ‘treasure hunt’ type foods with special flavor experiences, which is a growing trend we are seeing across different produce categories. As such, Kiss melons will add a lot of depth to the melon category,” says Josh.
If Kiss melons have grabbed your attention like they have consumers, look no further than Dulcinea, as the varieties are exclusively offered by the company.
“Kiss melons are exclusively distributed by Dulcinea, which is exciting because we are a one-stop shop able to deliver depth and breadth to meet our customers’ needs when it comes to melons,” Josh adds.
Buyers, what are you waiting for? Grab your phone and call a Dulcinea rep to get Kiss melons on display just in time for your shoppers to clear them out—trust me, they won’t stay stocked for long.
IDAHO FALLS, ID - Where would we be without careful market analysis? The ability to track and predict trends has done wonders for both the buy- and supply-sides, and Category Partners is one industry partner leading the charge. Further fortifying its analytical prowess, the company recently named Jashon Newlun to the new position of Senior Analyst.
Newlun originally joined the Category Partners team last year in 2020 as an analyst focused on core client deliverables, including retail sales analysis, consumer research analytics, and data reporting platform (CP Conduit) support. His new role will cover additional direct client support and consulting, machine learning capabilities, and the mentoring and oversight of the Category Partners analytics team.
As noted in a press release, Newlun is a graduate of BYU-Idaho with a bachelor’s degree in Applied Mathematics. He grew up in Seattle, Washington, and currently lives in Idaho Falls, Idaho, with his wife and their cat Rory. Newlun considers himself a movie buff, and is always looking to travel to some new and exotic location. The press release stated that among his more memorable travels was his time in Eastern Europe where he gained fluency in Romanian.
CEO Tom Barnes weighed in on this exciting appointment.
“It goes without saying, as 2020 began to unfold, it was anybody’s guess as to how the industry would be impacted. Category Partners was no exception,” Barnes said. “As the year progressed and our growth was strong and accelerating, it became obvious very fast that we needed to expand our team with people who could contribute on day one. Jashon hit the ground running and never looked back. He has been a key contributor to the success of our team and that of our clients across the perishables industries. Promoting Jashon is really about ‘truth in labeling.' He contributes at a high level, and we’re excited to recognize this. Congratulations Jashon!”
The team at ANUK also extends our congratulations to Jashon Newlun on entering a new role!
CASTROVILLE, CA - Whether it be a century or two decades, a legacy is worth celebrating, especially in our fast-paced industry. Ocean Mist® Farms is preparing to honor both as Joe Pezzini has announced he will step down from his role as CEO and President, just as the grower moves toward is centennial celebration. Pezzini has been part of Ocean Mist for 21 years, and will depart from his position on June 30, 2021.
“There is never a good time to make a change of this magnitude. Ocean Mist Farms will celebrate its centennial in 2024. In that long and rich history, we have grown from very humble beginnings in 1924 to a full-service, year-round supplier of the finest artichokes and fresh produce. I am proud to have been a part of that journey along with all the other Ocean Mist Farms team members over the years,” commented Pezzini.
Following Pezzini’s departure, an executive committee and senior management team is in place to continue the success of Ocean Mist throughout the transition. According to a press release, the company has begun an executive search for his successor.
“This is a very significant change for Ocean Mist Farms, however, I have no doubt that the service and supply expectations that the industry has come to expect from the Ocean Mist Farms brand will continue at the highest levels,” said Kirk Martin, Chairman of the Board. “On behalf of the Board and the family Owners of Ocean Mist Farms, we thank Joe for his steadfast service and leadership. We will miss his passion, professionalism, and commitment to our collective success. In the meantime, we will move forward with confidence in our growers, people, and leadership team to continue to serve the needs of our customers and stakeholders as a valued produce solutions provider.”
Cheers to Joe Pezzini as he continues his path forward into new endeavors.
KINGSVILLE, ONTARIO, & EXETER, RI - When we combine the brain power of two supply-side mavens, there is nothing we cannot accomplish. Mastronardi Produce and family farming operation Rhode Island Grows have put their heads together and recently broke ground on a new 25-acre greenhouse in Exeter, Rhode Island, in an effort to bring more high-flavor, fresh fruits and vegetables to the region.
“This high-tech, state-of the-art facility will use Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) to provide environmentally sustainable, high quality produce even through the winter,” says Paul Mastronardi, President and CEO of Mastronardi Produce. “This is a significant milestone that we’re honored to be a part of; it will increase our ability to efficiently bring more locally-grown produce to the Northeastern region of the U.S.”
According to a press release, the new facility kicks off phase one of Rhode Island Grows’ CEO Tim Schartner’s plan to supply SUNSET® branded produce. The build is expected to leave a nearly zero-carbon footprint using solar and other green energy components.
Both Mastronardi Produce and Rhode Island Grows share the same passion of delivering quality, flavorful fruits and vegetables that are grown locally and sustainably. Contributing to these values, the Exeter location ensures opportunity and affluence for the entire region which it will serve.
“Our state-of-the-art greenhouse will provide a consistent supply of fresh fruits and vegetables to an area that generally relies on outside sources to provide food,” says Schartner, the 5th generation family member to lead Rhode Island Grows. “Together, with Mastronardi Produce, we are bringing innovation and wealth creation to the area through sustainable advanced technologies, acumen, and food security.”
Rhode Island-grown SUNSET® tomatoes and peppers are currently set to hit stores in 2022, so be sure to save a spot in your produce aisle when planning for next season.
ANUK will continue to keep you in the loop on all things fresh produce, so stick with us.
BERKELY, CA - By now, many of us have seen the innovative checkout-free technology deployed by the likes of big-name retailers like Amazon. This tech allows consumers to skip the checkout line, saving time and adding convenience for both shopper and retailer alike. Another player in this innovative arena is Grabango, which recently announced it raised $39 million in Series B funding to further evolve its checkout-free technology for grocery and convenience store partners.
“We pride ourselves on the accuracy of the system and the ease with which it operates in the dynamic environment of a modern store,” said Will Glaser, CEO of Grabango. “Wasting time in lines has always bothered me, and now we no longer have to endure it. The incredibly gifted Grabango team has built one of the great marvels of modern technology; so advanced that it feels like magic!”
Grabango is one of the first companies to retrofit its checkout-free technology to an already operating store, saving its shoppers time as they skip the line, according to a press release. The grocery innovator, in partnership with Giant Eagle, has proven that its technology works with over 15,000 SKUs and tens of thousands of transactions each month. Grabango was able to install its technology in a Giant Eagle GetGo store without disruption, and now will be launching its product into four more locations in the greater Pittsburgh area by the end of 2021.
“At Giant Eagle, our success over our 90-year history is founded in our commitment to service and innovation,” said Laura Karet, President and CEO of Giant Eagle. “In the past decade, we have experienced significant growth in using technology to advance how our customers shop with us in-store and online. Grabango is a key partner in what we will accomplish in the next 10 years. Since we first introduced their system last fall, we’ve seen GetGo customers embrace the technology and use it with enthusiasm. We’re excited to roll out this technology to additional GetGo locations in the coming months so more of our shoppers can enjoy the convenience of safely skipping the checkout line.”
Raising over $39 million to continue to expand its successful technology, the Series B funding round for Grabango was led by Commerce Ventures with participation from Founders Fund, Unilever Ventures, Honeywell Ventures, and WIND Ventures, all of whom share in the company’s vision for modernization across the retail world.
“We evaluated nearly every company in the space and chose Grabango because they had the most robust technology, an approach that works in complex retail environments, and an incredible team. This combination is why they continue to pull away as the market leader,” said Matt Nichols, Partner at Commerce Ventures. “Incredibly, the $5.7 trillion grocery market had been left behind as tech innovation focused on other sectors. Grabango delivers a new level of convenience for shoppers and will transform the economics of grocery and convenience stores across the world.”
This new capital investment accompanies several other store develpments, including the addition of new customers in 2021. To date, Grabango has signed five retail partners, each one with over $1 billion in revenue, including a global top-10 grocer as well as a Fortune-25 multinational retailer. Additionally, the company has filed 38 patents, several of which have already been awarded.
“We pride ourselves on identifying and supporting forward-thinking founders like Will Glaser,” said Stephen Willson, Managing Partner of Unilever Ventures. “In 2016, he recognized that the grocery industry was long overdue for in-store innovation and conceived of checkout-free technology as a way to transform the industry. Now, he and his team at Grabango are deploying these systems to reshape the experience for the modern shopper.”
In recent years, Checkout-free technology has only increased in demand across the globe. With Grabango’s innovative solutions created using computer vision technology to identify items as they are picked up, consumers can skip the lines and have their receipts sent to them after departing the store. This will create a seamless shopping experience for both retailers and shoppers, with companies like Grabango hoping for this to become the global standard.
Of its newly raised capital, some of it will go to augment its development team, with its engineering group performing advanced work to develop the technology to Grabango’s high standards.
With this new funding, how will Grabango evolve the checkout-free technology sector, and what new partners will join its mission? Keep reading AndNowUKnow as we go in search of answers.
WASHINGTON, D.C. - As suppliers and retailers alike look to optimize ever-evolving consumer behavior, the United Fresh Produce Association has revealed a critical resource. The association recently announced it has released its Q1 2021 issue of FreshFacts® on Retail, pulling back the curtain on several critical shopper trends.
“More than a year later, the pandemic continues to cause significant changes in consumer behavior,” said Miriam Wolk, Vice President, Member Services. “The cautionary spending environment means brands will need to be laser-focused on economically constrained consumers’ price sensitivity and channels, shifting towards value outlets.”
The new issue, which is sponsored by Mucci Farms, debuts a new horizontal layout for an enhanced digital viewing experience and measures retail price and sales trends for the top 10 fruit and vegetable commodities.
The Q1 2021 issue reports that most department sales remain higher than the past two years, as rising prices drove produce dollars as consumption fell slightly, the press release explained. The report also looks at broader category performance date for the quarter, with seasonal category deep dives including avocados, cantaloupe, cauliflower, and corn. The report offers a year-by-year comparison spanning the last three years’ Q3 results to help companies plan for a successful Q3 2021.
Highlights featured in the Q1 2021 report include:
- Total produce household trips to the store are up 4.6 percent vs a year ago
- Salad kits continue to gain in popularity, as dollar share grew +2.1 pts
- Quarterly sales of organic produce eclipse $2.3 billion
- Mixed fruit are the top selling value-added category and eight out of top ten categories reported growth
- Shopper spend on value-added vegetables continues to grow, with 2.7 percent dollar contribution of value-added vegetables to total produce
Keep a tab open for ANUK as we continue to bring you the latest news in the fresh produce industry.
BETHPAGE, NY - Enacting its latest growth strategy, King Kullen has made several decisive moves to bolster its leadership ring. The retailer recently announced it has appointed Joseph W. Brown as President and Chief Operating Officer and Bernard P. Kennedy as Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, and Secretary.
"King Kullen has been a part of my life for nearly 50 years. I have witnessed many changes within the supermarket industry during that time, but what has not changed is King Kullen’s commitment to its associates and customers and dedication to the communities in which it operates," Brown said in a statement to Newsday.
This is the first time since the company’s inception 91 years ago that King Kullen has appointed a President who is not a member of the founder’s family, according to the news source.
Brown began his career as a produce clerk for King Kullen nearly five decades ago, and was promoted from Executive Vice President to President and Chief Operating Officer following a vote by the retail chain’s Board of Directors.
In addition to this recent announcement, the grocer has also revealed it has promoted Bernard P. Kennedy, who is the great-nephew of King Kullen Founder Michael J. Cullen, from Senior Vice President of Corporate and Legal Affairs to Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, and Secretary.
These new appointments follow the announcement made back in March that Brian C. Cullen and J. Donald Kennedy, the grandson and great-nephew of the Founder, are planning to retire after 22 years in their roles as Co-Presidents and Co-Chief Operating Officers.
Congratulations to both of these talented leaders as make the next move in their already distinguished careers!