ST. LOUIS, MO - Major changes are happening for Schnuck Markets. Today, the retailer announced Ryan Cuba will lead the company’s merchandising department as its new Chief Merchant.
Cuba was most recently the company’s Chief Business Development and Transformation Officer. Now, according to a release, he will be stepping into the Chief Merchant role with more than 25 years in the retail industry, replacing Steve Mayer.
Cuba has been with Schnucks for 14 years, eight of which he led Store Operations before taking the helm of the newly-formed Business Development Department. Through Cuba’s leadership in that role, Schnucks grew its e-commerce business, closed the sale of the company’s pharmacy business to CVS, launched the new EatWell store in Columbia, Missouri, and completed the acquisition of 19 Shop ’n Save stores.
“Ryan’s combination of business acumen and wide-ranging experience across varied disciplines positions him as the ideal leader who can empower the company’s success as a regional grocer competing in a complex, evolving market,” said Schnucks President and COO David Peacock. “His data-centric approach will help drive performance, while his track record of leadership and development of people will serve the merchandising organization well as they evolve to meet changing customer needs.”
A St. Louis native, Cuba holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Finance from the University of Missouri–Columbia, and an MBA with an emphasis in Finance from Saint Louis University.
As noted in the release, Cuba currently serves on the Board of Directors for Operation Food Search and is a supporter of Junior Achievement and the United Way.
Congratulations to Ryan Cuba on his recent appointment!
CHICAGO, IL - Hazel Technologies recently announced a dynamic, joint partnership to further strengthen the kiwifruit supply chain. The company will be tapping the strength of one of Farmlands, New Zealand’s largest farmer-owned, rural supplies co-operative; Seeka, among the largest kiwifruit packer in New Zealand; and Apata, a leading harvester, packer, and cold storage operator for the New Zealand kiwifruit industry.
“Hazel Tech is committed to expanding our current industry-leading technology portfolio across the global supply chain,” said Aidan Mouat, CEO, Hazel Technologies. “Partnering with some of the most respected New Zealand Kiwifruit brands like Farmlands, Seeka, Apata, and Zespri has been a major progress point for our geographical and product portfolio expansion.”
This new partnership will focus on the use of Hazel™ Trex, a new pre-harvest technology launched by Hazel Tech® this year, with support from the global New Zealand kiwifruit marketer Zespri.
According to the release, Whitehall Fruitpackers manages 100 hectares of Zespri SunGold kiwifruit and 130 hectares of Zespri Green in the Waikato growing region.
“Our multi-season data indicates Hazel Trex reduces kiwifruit orchard management labor costs by increasing king flower frequency”, said Miguel Peterle, Production Manager at Whitehall Fruitpackers. “Reducing labor needs during potential COVID-19 related shortages is especially crucial.”
As part of the partnership, growers supplying fruit to Seeka and Apata will deploy the Hazel Trex technology into their pre-harvest management process ahead of the 2020-2021 harvest. As noted in the press release, Farmlands will be the sole distributor of Hazel Trex to all of Zespri’s New Zealand kiwifruit growers.
“Hazel Trex technology will affect a true paradigm shift in kiwifruit orchard management, as it employs the latest genetic sequencing technology to ensure accurate forecasting,” said Dwayne Farrington, Technical Manager at Farmlands. “Given the depth of our co-operative’s technical kiwifruit expertise, we are well placed to distribute this technology to the New Zealand kiwifruit industry in 2020 and beyond.”
Seeka, founded in 1980, is one of the largest packers of kiwifruit in New Zealand and Australia and manages over 1200 hectares of kiwifruit production. Apata was created in 2013, after the strategic merger of two long-standing kiwifruit packers, Aerocool Limited and Apata Limited. Both Seeka and Apata pack the Zespri kiwifruit export label.
“For the past 30 years, Apata has always prided itself on embracing industry-leading technologies ahead of the market to optimize kiwifruit quality. Our partnership with Farmlands and Hazel Tech is a testament to our commitment to innovation,” said Gary Geurts, Business Development Manager of Apata.
Exciting things are on the horizon for this fuzzy category! Stay tuned as ANUK brings the latest in the fresh produce sector.
INDIA - It’s not often that big-box retail divisions are acquired, but we at ANUK are always on the lookout. Today, The Flipkart Group acquired 100 percent interest in Walmart India Private Limited, which operates the Best Price cash-and-carry business, to leverage its strong wholesale capabilities and enable growth and prosperity for the Indian economy. The acquisition will ultimately lead to the launch of Flipkart Wholesale, a new digital marketplace that will help transform the kirana and MSMEs retail ecosystem in India by leveraging cutting-edge and locally developed technology.
“For over a decade, we’ve been committed to India’s prosperity by serving kiranas and MSMEs, supporting smallholder farmers, and building global sourcing and technology hubs throughout the country,” Judith McKenna, President and Chief Executive Officer, Walmart International, said. “Today marks the next big step as Walmart India’s pioneering cash-and-carry legacy meets Flipkart’s culture of innovation in the launch of Flipkart Wholesale. By leveraging each other’s strengths and unique expertise, this combined team will break new ground in their shared mission to help Indian businesses grow and succeed. We look forward to a bright future for Flipkart Wholesale.”
With the acquisition of the Walmart India business, its employees will join the Flipkart Group and the home office teams will integrate over the next year. The Best Price brand will continue to serve its 1.5 million-plus members via its omnichannel network of 28 stores and e-commerce operations, according to a press release.
Flipkart Wholesale will launch its operations in August 2020 and will pilot services for the grocery category. It will be headed by Senior Vice President and Head Adarsh Menon, a veteran at Flipkart. Sameer Aggarwal, Chief Executive Officer at Walmart India, will remain with the company to ensure a smooth transition, after which time he will move to another role within Walmart.
“Flipkart Wholesale will further deepen and build on Walmart India and the Flipkart Group’s commitment to kiranas and MSMEs over the last several years,” said Menon. “Thousands of kiranas have already partnered with Flipkart to enhance their business and income streams. I am excited to be part of this new initiative that allows us to expand opportunities for growth for them and bring further prosperity to their lives. We will leverage the synergies between Flipkart and Walmart India as we stay focused on transforming the wholesale experience for kiranas and MSMEs.”
Not only does the acquisition stregthen Flipkart Wholesale, but it strengthens the economy in India as well.
Flipkart Wholesale will leverage Flipkart’s strong homegrown technology capabilities, extensive leadership in the consumer e-commerce segment, and a unique understanding of the industry in India.
“This move recognizes the critical role that kiranas and MSMEs play towards India’s economic prosperity and growth, and the coming together of Walmart India with Flipkart Wholesale will provide an opportunity to build upon the 12+ year legacy of the Best Price brand serving kiranas across India,” said Aggarwal.
The business will also utilize The Flipkart Group’s vast supply chain infrastructure to reach kiranas and MSMEs across the country.
Kiranas and MSMEs are central to India’s retail ecosystem and Flipkart Wholesale will focus on providing small businesses a wide selection at significant value, powered by technology to make their lives easier.
“As the e-commerce pioneer in India, the Flipkart Group has transformed the shopping experience for millions of Indian consumers,” Kalyan Krishnamurthy, Chief Executive Officer, Flipkart Group, said. “With the launch of Flipkart Wholesale, we will now extend our capabilities across technology, logistics, and finance to small businesses across the country. The acquisition of Walmart India adds a strong talent pool with deep expertise in the wholesale business that will strengthen our position to address the needs of kiranas and MSMEs uniquely. With this development, the Flipkart Group will further build upon the synergies across its businesses to drive greater value and choice for end-consumers and businesses alike.”
As we continue to search the newswires for industry-shaking reports, keep checking in with AndNowUKnow.
WASHINGTON, DC - United Fresh Produce Association released some exciting news this week as it promoted Dr. Jennifer McEntire to the position of Senior Vice President of Food Safety and Technology. Dr. McEntire joined the association four years ago, bringing her extensive background in food safety, regulatory issues, and association management to the United Fresh team.
As reported in a press release, Dr. McEntire began her Washington, DC-based career in 2001 at the National Food Processors Association and as a visiting scientist at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). After earning her Ph.D. from Rutgers University studying Listeria monocytogenes, she joined the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), where she received the FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Director’s Special Citation Award. She was specifically cited for her food defense work with the Food and Ag Sector of the Department of Homeland Security.
At IFT, Dr. McEntire also led a multi-media career guidance initiative, promoting the field of food science in all 18,000 U.S. high schools, which was recognized with a Gold Award by the Society for National Association Publications. Leveraging her formal training in adult education and engagement, McEntire brought her passion for educating future generations to United Fresh, most recently launching the Produce Safety Immersion Program, an exclusive year-long educational and mentoring program that builds the knowledge, network, and critical thinking skills of 15 newer produce safety professionals. Her support of education extends to her personal life, where she also has established a scholarship for food science students at the University of Delaware, her undergraduate alma mater.
“Jennifer’s unique skills have proved a perfect match for the produce industry, bringing deep scientific knowledge, common-sense solutions and a personal ability to connect with members,” said United Fresh President and CEO Tom Stenzel. “Jennifer has grown both the portfolio of food safety services and offerings to our members, and has established trusted and respected relationships with regulatory and academic leaders at every level.”
Dr. McEntire subsequently worked with The Acheson Group in Washington, DC, led by former FDA Associate Commissioner for Foods Dr. David Acheson. She later joined the Grocery Manufacturer’s Association, where she led the microbiology, chemistry, packaging, and forensics labs and the process authority teams, before joining United Fresh in 2016.
“Jennifer’s extensive network and long history of collaboration and engagement with diverse groups of stakeholders has proven to be an asset to United Fresh and the entire produce industry,” said Stenzel.
Dr. McEntire is recognized as an international expert in food traceability, having led the traceability pilots under contract with FDA as part of the Food Safety Modernization Act as she transitioned from IFT to The Acheson Group. She recently co-edited and co-authored the authoritative textbook on food traceability.
Congratulations to Dr. Jennifer McEntire on her new position!
GREENSBORO, NC - There truly is no substitute for experience, and The Fresh Market is bolstering its own with the addition of its new Senior Vice President, Store Operations, Brian Johnson, effective immediately.
The new executive brings nearly 30 years in a career entirely in operations, having earned his way up to hold retail leadership positions.
Johnson is making the move over to Greensboro, North Carolina, from Texas, where he most recently served as Senior Vice President, Division Manager, for Brookshire Grocery Company for the past six years, leading more than 8,000 employee partners in 107 of the supermarket chain’s 180-plus stores.
In his new role, Johnson will report directly to Jason Potter, Chief Executive Officer.
“I am excited to have Brian lead our store operations team and help continue to energize our business, building relationships with our guests, and ensuring that every visit to The Fresh Market is a memorable and welcoming experience, with exceptionally clean, friendly, and well-stocked stores,” said Potter.
Brookshire’s governs four banners—Brookshire’s, Super 1 Foods, Fresh by Brookshire’s, and Spring Market—across Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas.
Johnson graduated with honors from Baylor University with a degree in Management. He also holds an MBA from the University of Texas at Tyler and completed the Cornell Food Executive Program in 2015.
His wife is joining him in the move, according to a press release, while his two adult children attend medical school back in Texas.
Congratulations to The Fresh Market and its newest leader!
WASHINGTON, DC - Acosta Inc., with headquarters in Jacksonville, Florida, recently posted a $100,000 surety bond with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to obtain a Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA) license. Under the regulations of the PACA, the company was required to post the bond following its prior involvement in bankruptcy.
Direct from the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service:
The company posted the bond as a prerequisite to obtain a new license to operate in the produce industry.
USDA will hold the bond for three years and nine months, providing assurance to the industry that the company will be able to pay for produce purchased and to conduct business according to PACA rules.
The PACA Division, which is a part of AMS’ Fair Trade Practices Program, regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses that are operating subject to the PACA including buyers, sellers, commission merchants, dealers, and brokers within the fruit and vegetable industry.
In the past three years, USDA resolved approximately 3,500 PACA claims involving more than $58 million. PACA staff also assisted more than 7,800 callers with issues valued at approximately $148 million. These are just two examples of how USDA continues to support the fruit and vegetable industry.
For further information, contacts, and to read the press release in its entirety, please click the link here.
FRESNO, CA - It’s always an exciting moment when you get a new position, especially when that position helps influence an entire category. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the office of U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has gained a valuable partner and a new Trade Advisor in the form of the California Table Grape Commission’s (CTGC) Jodi Devaurs.
Devaurs, CTGC’s Trade Policy Director, has been appointed to serve as a Trade Advisor to the USDA and USTR. She will serve on the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee (ATAC) for Trade in Fruits and Vegetables. Devaurs’ term to serve will run until 2024.
“Jodi’s appointment to ATAC is important for the California table grape industry and represents an expansion of its direct involvement in trade matters,” said Kathleen Nave, Commission President. “Jodi brings experience and technical expertise to her advisory role and will provide USDA and USTR with important insight into table grape industry needs and the challenges and opportunities represented by trade negotiation.”
According to the press release, ATAC committee members provide feedback and advice to the USDA and USTR on the operation of existing trade agreements and the negotiation of new agreements.
Devaurs’ responsibilities at the commission include market access, technical issues, and general trade policy matters.
Congrats to Jodi Devaurs on her new role!
YAKIMA, WA - Summer apples remain a top category, keeping consumers coming back for more. Strong Washington State summer apple shipments indicate potentially record demand for apples that will be harvested in the coming weeks. Luckily for retailers, Superfresh Growers® is gearing up to meet that demand.
“Based on the movement we see—more than 10 straight weeks of +2 million-box shipments—we are encouraging retailers to set early ads on organic and conventional apples, starting in August,” said Catherine Gipe-Stewart, Communications Manager. “We begin harvest next week and anticipate exceptionally high demand for new crop Gala, Honeycrisp, and other apple varieties. Retailers who carve out plenty of promotional space for apples should earn big sales.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has conditioned consumers to shop differently in recent months. They are making fewer trips to grocery stores and buying more produce per trip. According to the release, the pandemic has increased demand for delicious, healthy, grab-and-go produce items that have strong shelf-life, like apples. And, of course, there has been a surge in online ordering for pick-up and home delivery. Apples are very popular in these programs.
Regardless of whether schools in different regions of the country re-open in August, Gipe-Stewart stated parents will be stocking up on apples for healthy kids’ lunches and snacks.
“Apples are known for their excellent shelf life, convenience, and a good source of vitamin C. I think that is why we’ve seen such strong demand for apples this summer versus other summers,” explained Gipe-Stewert. “Plus, we are seeing a strong desire to purchase U.S.-grown food this year, supporting American farmers.”
Superfresh Growers is a leading grower and shipper of both conventional and organic apples, pears, cherries, apricots, blueberries, and kiwi berries from the Pacific Northwest. The grower is a vertically-integrated agricultural organization specializing in farming, warehousing, sales, marketing, and logistics services.
Capitalize on this apple momentum while you still can! ANUK will bring the freshest news from the industry to your inbox, so keep checking back for more.
SALINAS, CA - With eyes all on innovating the wet rack, and by extension the kitchen, Church Brothers Farms is revving up its offerings with new products and a proprietary shelf-life combatant.
The team is introducing sweet baby cauliflower and sweet baby broccoli, both treated with the company’s proprietary Stay Fresh™, a system that minimizes respiration and eliminates dehydration.
“Stay Fresh technology ensures our customers receive the highest quality product with the most reliable shelf life in the industry,” said Rick Russo, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “We are excited to roll out these new products in our state-of-the-line packs to our customers nationwide. Delicious on their own, they’re even better paired together.”
Sweet baby cauliflower is a new variety, which grows with sun-kissed florets and tender green stems that, according to a press release, become brighter when cooked.
Its counterpart, sweet baby broccoli, is born of a cross between kale and heirloom broccoli, bringing out the best of both by being sweeter than broccoli and less bitter than kale.
In addition to a longer shelf-life, Church Brothers shared that both veggies are easy to prepare and versatile in their own right. Grilled or sautéed, simple or complex, this sounds like something consumers will be excited to add to their baskets as they explore a new take on familiar favorites.
LE GRAND, CA - Live Oak Farms continues to make big moves with the launch of its organic green bell pepper program for the 2020 season and the introduction of a new foodservice product.
“The topic of growing organic has been on the table for some time. It wasn’t a matter of if, it was a question of when,” Briana Giampaoli, fourth-generation family member and Marketer commented. “Though times are uncertain right now, I believe adding organics was the right thing to do and will be a successful addition to our product line.”
With strong supplies starting in July and a CCOF organic handler certification to boot, it’s shaping up to be a season to look forward to. According to the press release, the organic bells are being grown in Le Grand, California. The company has partnered with local growers who hold a long-time organic certification through CCOF to provide organic green bells to customers during the 2020 harvest season. Live Oak will be packing the organic greens in 1 1/9 bushel with optional PLU and other pack sizes available upon request.
Along with organic green bell pepper supply this season, Live Oak Farms will also be introducing its new 10 lb jalapeño foodservice box. Traditionally, the conventional jalapeño operation was field-packed, but with the growing interest of buyers, Live Oak has decided to bring it in-house to the packing facility.
These jalapeños will run on a new versatile line that will allow workers to better sort and pack the product with the flexibility of different pack styles to meet customers’ desires. Jalapeños are offered from June to late October.
“Live Oak is capable of doing more, but our foundation of loyalty, good quality, and good business will never be lost,” said Dominic Giampaoli, fourth-generation family member and Farm Manager.
The next generation of family members at Live Oak Farms is achieving that next level as it looks to bring more options to customers while still holding the core values of past generations.
In addition to organic green bell peppers and jalapeños, Live Oak Farms also offers conventional tomatoes and Roma tomatoes from June to late October.
For the latest news and developments in fresh produce, stick around for more updates from ANUK.