WILMINGTON, DE - What could possibly be more exciting than the appointment of one new leader? How about three. Recently announcing the shakeup of its executive ring, Nichino America Inc. (NAI), known for its crop protection products, revealed that it has tapped Jeffrey Johnson to serve as its President and CEO; Dustin Simmons as its Commercial Vice President; and Dr. Lydia Cox as Vice President, Regulatory and Scientific Affairs. The promotions and appointments will officially go into effect July 1, 2021.
Johnson holds the role of President, and will soon be named Chief Executive Officer of NAI in addition to his current position. According to a press release, he has also been promoted to Managing Executive Officer of Nihon Nohyaku Company, a parent company of NAI, and will lead the Global Strategy Project Team for the Nichino Group Companies.
Starting with the Nichino Group in 1997, Johnson began as the Commercial Development Manager of Nihon Nohyaku America. He was then named Vice President of the newly formed NAI in 2001 and was appointed President in 2002.
Dustin Simmons will join Johnson in being promoted, assuming the newly created role of Commercial Vice President. In his position, Simmons will oversee marketing; strategic planning; business development; U.S., Mexico, and Canada third party licensing; and subsidiary business in Mexico (Nichino Mexico). He will continue to report to Johnson in his new role.
Simmons joined NAI in 2008 and has held several positions within the company including Sales Representative, Marketing Manager, Director of Marketing, and Director of Business Development and Strategic Planning.
Throughout Simmons' time with the company, he has made many contributions to the development and growth of NAI.
Rounding out the list of new leaders is Dr. Lydia Cox who has been promoted to Vice President of Regulatory and Scientific Affairs for NAI. In her new position, Cox will oversee all regulatory, scientific, and governmental affairs activities for the company as well as safety, product quality, and formulations. She is responsible for North America for all active ingredients and brands at the federal and state levels. Cox too will report to Johnson in her new role.
Cox joined NAI in 2013 as Director of Regulatory Affairs, and has managed her team for the past 8 years. Notably, she has overseen efforts for full federal registrations for tolfenpyrad and pyrifluquinazon, as well as the expanded label registration for orthosulfamuron in the tree and vine markets.
Congratulations to all three leaders as they take on these new roles!
AUSTIN, TX - The collaboration between a buyer and a supplier is pure poetry. With its retail legacy carrying on rhythmically, Whole Foods Market has tipped its hat to those suppliers that make its success possible. The grocer recently announced the winners of its ninth-annual Supplier Awards, and we were thrilled to see a few of our produce friends on the list.
“It is Whole Foods Market’s honor to celebrate our suppliers who have demonstrated fantastic cooperation, resilience, creativity, and commitment to quality, rising to excellence in a year unlike any other,” said Sonya Gafsi Oblisk, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Whole Foods Market. “This year, we are proud to add the Regenerative Agriculture Commitment award to congratulate suppliers that are making strides to improve farming practices.”
The Special Recognition award is given to suppliers that go above and beyond in helping Whole Foods grow and drive business as well as inspire and delight customers, a press release explained. This year, one of its distinguished global winners was none other than Mastronardi Produce.
Another of its highly coveted awards, Whole Foods also highlights key suppliers who support and share its business initiatives and win-win-win outcomes by awarding them with the Service and Partnership recognition. This year, Taylor Farms was a global winner.
With quality and innovation at the center of its business, Whole Foods also recognized suppliers that help the company advance its standards and take an actionable part in moving the industry forward. These suppliers were recognized with the Raising the Bar for Quality awards for displaying innovative manufacturing or agricultural techniques, and Sun Pacific came out as our fresh produce rep in this space.
To see all of the suppliers that nabbed the spotlight this year, please click here. And, as our industry continues to impress, keep coming back to ANUK.
PHOENIX, AZ - The Northern Hemisphere’s warm weather that hits me as soon as I step out my front door is a sure sign that summer is near. As the season for grilling, picnicking, and everything in between commences, Sprouts Farmers Market is offering its shoppers a unique selection of fresh produce offerings to indulge in, as the retailer recently unveiled its new summer selections.
“This summer, as consumers become more comfortable making more frequent outings and socializing, we expect shoppers will spend more time looking for items that best fit their lifestyle and needs,” said Jack Sinclair, Chief Executive Officer. “Whether it’s sharing tips on how to pick the freshest produce, or details on the latest healthy and unique items you can’t find anywhere else, our stores and team members are committed to making our shopper’s grocery trip their best one yet.”
Sprouts’ enticing new summer produce offerings include a specially curated selection of fresh, local, and organic produce, as explained in a press release. As the retailer prepares for summer promotions—and warm weather sparks outdoor get-togethers—a diverse fresh produce department is the key to collecting shopper dollars.
Sprouts’ new summer selection includes:
- Organic Bing and Rainier cherries in May ahead of Memorial Day
- Lemon Drops, Hami, and Golden Honeydew melons in June
- Cotton Candy, Moondrop, and Candy Heart grapes in July
- Yellow Donut peaches, Plumsicles, Donut Nectarines, and Raspberry Apricots for a limited time July through September
“We’ve been working closely with our farm partners across the country all year to deliver the freshest produce available this summer,” said Chief Fresh Officer Scott Neal. “So far, this year’s growing conditions have been ideal, providing the impeccable quality and flavor our shoppers are looking for. In addition, we recently opened new produce distribution centers in Colorado and Florida this year which will provide a larger range of affordable organics and locally grown items to the regions.”
In addition to these offerings, innovative plant-based meat alternatives are also in high demand, the press release explained. Sprouts’ summer selection will also feature leading brands that provide plant-based alternatives to traditional meat options.
AndNowUKnow will be sure to report as more intriguing new retail strategies pop up in the newswire.
YAKIMA, WA - Apple lovers everywhere have a great reason to celebrate, as Cosmic Crisp® apples are still in season in the lead up to summer. Thanks to an increased volume of the Washington State-grown apple, shoppers will be able to find the delicious variety in grocery stores nationwide. In celebration of this budding retail opportunity, the brand announced it is launching new recipes to pair with its retail promotions and a hot air balloon tour.
“It took over 20 years of classic breeding, research, and development through Washington State University to perfect the Cosmic Crisp apple. And it’s only been on retail shelves for a total of 12 months,” said Kathryn Grandy, Chief Marketing Officer for Proprietary Variety Management, the company leading marketing efforts for the brand. “Our strong performance in the category is a testament to consumer reception of this new apple. With higher volumes and additional secondary products coming, the Cosmic Crisp will continue to differentiate the retailers that merchandise and promote the brand.”
In the upcoming weeks, Cosmic Crisp apples will be promoted at a large regional retail chain with over 250 locations, according to a press release. Signage will adorn the produce department to direct shoppers to the Cosmic Crisp website to see a diverse menu of alluring summer dishes like the plant-based apple burger or an apple and cherry pie recipe developed by best-selling author Erin McDowell, who wrote the Book on Pie. Consumers will also have a chance to win McDowell’s cookbook through the brand’s social media channels.
“We are thrilled to have another great month of Cosmic Crisp supply, and fresh ways to enjoy just in time as many of us look forward to safely hosting gatherings again,” continued Grandy. “It is the ideal time to promote the brand while the last of these beauties are on the market.”
In addition to these promotions, Cosmic Crisp will appear in June’s outdoor entertaining themed issue of Real Simple Magazine. But the efforts to shine a light on this beloved brand doesn’t stop there. In fact, Cosmic Crisp is taking to the skies with its latest strategy, as a custom-shaped Cosmic Crisp hot air balloon is set to make its debut in multiple festivals across the country.
The Cosmic Crisp hot air balloon will be present at the following festivals:
- Red River Balloon Rally, June 12, in Shreveport, Louisiana
- Balloons Over Bend, July 23–25, in Bend, Oregon
- National Balloon Classic, July 30–August 7, in Indianola, Indiana
- Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, October 2–10, in Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Cathedral City Hot Air Balloon Festival, November 19–21, in Palm Springs, California
As these exciting new promotions ramp up, shoppers are sure to head to their local produce department in search of the Cosmic Crisp, so stock up and give your consumers what they’re looking for!
SUNBURY, PA - Weis Markets is continuing to enact its ambitious growth strategy from the inside out. Recently, the company has unveiled multiple moves to bolster its leadership ring, as it has appointed several new executives over the past few months. Continuing this streak, the retailer announced today the promotion of Terry Wallace to Vice President of Supply Chain and Logistics.
In this new role, Wallace will oversee all aspects of the grocer’s supply chain and distribution activities across its 1.3 million square foot distribution center in Milton, Pennsylvania, a press release explained. As Vice President of Supply Chain and Logistics, Wallace will report to Chief Operating Officer Kurt Schertle.
Prior to this recent appointment, Wallace served as Director of Procurement for the retailer. Wallace has also held multiple increasingly senior distribution and procurement positions during his 21-year career with Weis Markets, also serving as Non Foods Distribution Manager and Supply Chain Manager, according to his LinkedIn profile. He further developed his knowledge and expertise through studying at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania.
This promotion comes in a string of announcements from Weis Markets, as the grocer recently fortified its executive team with the appointments of Bob Gleeson and Greg Zeh.
Congratulations to Terry Wallace on this recent promotion! AndNowUKnow will be sure to report on the successes that come of it.
SOLEDAD, CA - Readying its next wave of expansion, Braga Fresh has announced multiple promotions and additions to its team. Bolstering both its sales and marketing arms, the grower is doubling down on its efforts to meet the ever-growing demand for organic produce.
First up in the line of promotions is Casey Mills, who will take the role of Director of Sales. According to a release, Mills has been a part of the Braga Fresh sales team for almost five years. In his new role, Mills will be responsible for management of the Braga Fresh sales team, pricing, inventory, and commodity managers.
New members of the sales team—who will work under Mills—are Brian Amaral, Maria Preciado, and Emily Valladares.
Prior to these new additions, Braga Fresh made other changes to its team. In the past six months, Gabriel Tegenkamp was hired as an Account and Commodity Manager. We spoke with him last year about the iceberg lettuce market. Mary Poma was also hired as Director of Marketing.
“One of the most powerful tools we have to grow the company is our people,” stated Peter Cling, Senior Vice President of Operations, in response to the new team members. “We worked hard to choose and develop our team members at every level. As a result, we have a solid group that worked well together to face the challenges of the past year and will help lead us as we move forward.”
Congratulations to Braga Fresh’s new additions, and we look forward to all that the company will accomplish in the coming months!
WESTBOROUGH, MA - 2021 seems to be the year of expansion, as BJ’s Wholesale Club is the latest retailer to announce a slew of new locations opening. The wholesaler revealed that it will be extending its reach throughout the Eastern United States with six new clubs within the fiscal year, each one offering consumers convenience and an extensive selection of fresh food.
“We’ve made great progress accelerating the pace of our new club openings in the last few years and we’re looking forward to opening six new locations this fiscal year,” said Bill Werner, Executive Vice President, Strategy and Development. “We’re excited to bring the value and convenience of a BJ’s membership to more shoppers as we continue extending our reach across the Eastern United States.”
The list of new clubs includes stores in Seabrook, New Hampshire; Port Charlotte, Florida; Commack, New York; South Fayette, Pennsylvania; Ross Township, Pennsylvania; and Lansing, Michigan. According to a press release, the greater Pittsburgh area and Lansing are new markets for the wholesaler.
Each new club will feature an expansive selection of fresh foods along with a plethora of household items and other exciting finds. To offer each shopper a convenient experience, BJ’s will also give its members access to options such BJs.com; the BJ’s app; digital coupons; buy online, pick up in-club; curbside pickup; and same-day delivery.
The opening of each new club is expected to bring 150 jobs to the respective community. BJ’s will be hiring across all locations, and those interested can already apply online.
How will BJ’s continue to expand this successful growth strategy? Stick with AndNowUKnow for the answers.
SALINAS, CA - Partnership is one of the most vital pillars of our industry. Whether the hat you wear represents the buy- or supply-side, finding a valuable ally who is dedicated to the success of the partnership can be a huge catalyst for growth in the ever-evolving world of fresh produce. Pacific International Marketing is an ideal grower partner for retailers looking to boost category sales, as the supplier aligns with buyers to provide them with conventional and organic veggies all year long.
“Being vertically integrated allows us to innovate our programs quickly to meet the needs of our partners,” David Black, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, tells me. “We offer a year-round supply of fresh organic and conventional vegetables to meet our customers’ needs consistently, and being employee-owned allows us to cut the red tape and make quick decisions for the benefit of our retail partners.”
Pacific is currently promoting its celery sticks, petite romaine lettuce, and Brussels sprouts, and is reporting great quality and volume out of both its Salinas and Santa Maria, California, growing operations, with celery acreage expected to ramp up soon to support retailers’ celery stick programs. The supplier currently offers its organic and conventional celery sticks, conventional petite romaine, and Brussels sprouts for foodservice and retail.
Pacific is a one-stop shop for any retailer’s fresh vegetable needs, as the grower collaborates with its industry partners to help streamline their operations and ensure heavy foot traffic to its various offerings.
“We offer retail support for all commodity categories, and we are currently working on making information available at shoppers’ fingertips through the development of QR codes on our products,” David adds. “Brussels sprouts are a great category to jump into promotional ads, as we are harvesting loose options now and will begin harvesting full and half stalks in mid-June, which take up less space on shelves and in shoppers’ refrigerators.”
When I ask about the benefits of joining forces with this innovative supplier, Sales Director Jeff Hyosaka explains that retailers obtain an exclusive advantage within the supply chain.
“Because we continue to offer more options in one location, we have seen our business grow tremendously,” Jeff mentions. “Utilizing the year-round programs we offer, while eliminating extra stops, allows retailers to have a more streamlined service for their consumers.”
This supplier is surely not pressing the breaks on the way to growth, so why not join Pacific in the passenger seat?
AndNowUKnow will continue to tell you all you need to know in the fresh produce industry, so stay tuned.
SACRAMENTO, CA - On this beautiful Friday, we are celebrating the amazing opportunity to make your pockets a little fatter. If you’re an avid reader of our publication, you know exactly what time it is—time to prove you have an eagle eye by locating the AndNowUKnow logo on The Snack cover for the chance to win a $100 cash prize.
Our May issue of The Snack offers an inside look at what truly makes our industry tick and unique opportunities to boost fresh produce sales. And, if you find the logo quick enough, you could also walk away with an extra $100!
If you haven’t yet received the hard copy of the May issue yet, no worries! You can still find the hidden apple logo by viewing the digital cover here. Once you’ve located it, make sure to take a victory photo of yourself with your finger pointing at the hidden logo.
The criteria for winning is as follows:
- Your FOUND the Apple Logo photo must include your face
- And your finger must be pointing to the AndNowUKnow apple logo
Once you’ve discovered it, send your selfie over to us at [email protected] to join the running for the $100 cash prize! If your photo lands in our inbox ahead of everyone else’s, you could join the winners’ circle, along with some other quick produce pros, including:
- Dustin Meloche of Nature Fresh Farms (reigning supply-side champion)
- Danny Ortiz of Sysco (reigning buy-side champ)
- Doug Groendyke Harvest Hope Food Bank’s
- Claudia Pizarro-Villalobos of D’Arrigo California
- Osmerlin Garcia of Nature Fresh Farms
- Betty Tomao of The Save Mart Companies
- Monina Knox of Sprouts Farmers Market
- Chris Olsen of Gold Coast Packing
- Kimberly Chan of 99 Cents Only
If you want a leg up for future challenges, click here to subscribe to The Snack (valued at $129 per year).
Ready to win $100? Get to searching for that hidden logo!
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Meijer is not messing around when it comes to expansion. All in one fell swoop, the retailer has opened several new stores across multiple markets. Debuting three new supercenters across the Midwest, Meijer aims to offer a state-of-the-art shopping experience, providing customers multiple ways to shop in a unique store environment.
"These new stores reinforce our ongoing commitment to serving the needs of communities at a time when everyone is looking for a one-stop shopping experience," President and CEO Rick Keyes said. "We look forward to providing a customer-focused store that offers fresh options and innovation to help reshape how customers shop for the groceries and items they need while keeping their families safe."
Located in Seven Hills and Boardman, Ohio, and Westfield, Indiana, the 155,000-square-foot stores feature various digital shopping solutions such as Shop & Scan and Meijer Home Delivery and Pickup services. Known for offering more than 600 varieties of farm-fresh produce and 150 USDA-certified organic items, the new Meijer stores provide a premium shopping experience in the produce aisle.
According to a press release, the new stores are currently operating under adjusted hours and maintaining coronavirus safety measures, including floor decals and protective plexiglass shields at every checkout station. To help ensure the continued health and safety of its team members and customers, Meijer continues to require face coverings be worn by anyone entering a Meijer store or Meijer Express station at all locations except where medical conditions prevent them from wearing one.
"Throughout the past few months, our Meijer team members have worked diligently to prepare these new stores amid unprecedented challenges, and for that we are all proud and inspired," Keyes said. "We are looking forward to providing the important items our customers need in the cleanest shopping environment as we work together in the new communities that have welcomed us."
Prior to opening their doors, each of the stores demonstrated support in their respective communities by making a total of more than $25,000 in donations to local organizations. Meijer donates more than six percent of its net profit to charitable organizations annually, and each of its stores work with local food banks and pantries to help fight hunger. Since 2008, the retailer's Simply Give program has generated more than $62 million for its food pantry partners throughout the Midwest.
Could Meijer have even more new stores in development? My guess is yes, so keep following along with AndNowUKnow.