ATLANTA, GA - BrightFarms is no stranger to breakthrough innovation. The Cox Farms brand and indoor farming leader continues to be one of the players driving our industry forward and reinventing the way we bring fresh produce to consumers. Recently recognized as the AgTech Breakthrough Awards Indoor Farming Company of the Year, BrightFarms is further cementing its reputation as an industry trailblazer.

Jessica Soare, Assistant Vice President of Marketing at Cox Farms, and Eric Dobbins, Executive Vice President of Operations at BrightFarms, recently discussed this honor and how it reflects the company’s internal values.

What does being recognized as AgTech Breakthrough Awards Indoor Farming Company of the Year mean to the BrightFarms team?

Jessica Soare: “Being awarded as the Indoor Farming Company of the Year affirms the importance of our mission—to provide customers with fresh, clean leafy greens that are better for people and better for the planet.

We’re proud that our approach to rethinking where food grows, not just how it is sold, is being recognized within the industry. By growing regionally in climate-controlled greenhouses, we can bring greens closer to where consumers live, all while using less land, less water, and a smaller footprint per acre compared to traditional field-grown agriculture. Our controlled growing environment and highly automated processes give us greater consistency, traceability, and control throughout the growing process, helping us grow safe, clean, fresh greens in a protected environment and without pesticides. For our team, this award is a reflection of the people behind BrightFarms who work every day to make a better way of growing possible.”

How does this recognition reflect BrightFarms’ company values and commitment to innovation?

Eric Dobbins: “This recognition reflects BrightFarms’ belief that the future of agriculture requires us to think differently about how and where food is grown. Innovation is at the center of this model—from fully climate-controlled greenhouses and automated growing systems to precision yield management, RFID tracking, and modular facility design.

Our approach is designed to solve real challenges across the food system: growing closer to consumers, using less land and water, reducing waste in transit, and creating a more consistent supply of greens regardless of season or weather.

Being recognized as Indoor Farming Company of the Year reinforces that innovation and responsible growth do not have to be competing priorities. BrightFarms is demonstrating that technology can make food more efficient, more consistent, and more accessible while supporting a more regional food system.”

What makes BrightFarms a strong player in the indoor farming arena? How do these advantages translate into benefits for the company’s retail partners?

Eric Dobbins: “BrightFarms stands out in the indoor farming space through its strategically located, advanced greenhouses, scalable growing model, and experienced teams. Our regional greenhouse network allows us to grow leafy greens closer to consumers and provide a fresh, reliable supply 365 days a year, while our modular greenhouse design gives us the flexibility to expand as demand for greenhouse-grown greens continues to grow. Each greenhouse can expand up to three times its initial size and is designed to produce up to 25 million pounds of lettuce once fully built out. Behind that technology is a team of experienced growers, engineers, and managers who oversee each facility and help ensure we’re consistently harvesting fresh, high-quality, long-lasting greens.”

Jessica Soare: “For our retail partners, these advantages translate into a more reliable supply of fresh greens, regardless of season or outside weather conditions, along with the confidence that comes from working with a scalable, experienced growing partner. And because BrightFarms grows regionally, our greens can move from harvest to retailer in as little as 24 hours, helping deliver fresher, cleaner, longer-lasting products to shoppers. The recent Cyclospora crisis also revealed a strong opportunity for more greenhouse-grown salads, and it’s meaningful to be able to tell our story to more audiences who are actively seeking greenhouse-grown produce. It gives us a chance to reinforce the “why” behind BrightFarms and the mission that has remained at the heart of our business.”

Something tells me more exclusive insights from the Cox Farms team are on the way, so keep clicking on AndNowUKnow for the latest updates.

GLENNVILLE, GA - G&R Farms is painting the produce aisle red. A return to the supplier’s bold crimson letters signals a subtle but strategic brand refresh for the onion supplier. It is a move that reflects G&R’s commitment to long-term growth and keeping consumer eyes trained on the onion category.

“Celebrating our 80th anniversary gave us a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the G&R Farms story—where we started, how far we’ve come, and how we want to carry that legacy forward,” Blake Dasher, Chief Executive Officer, told me. “As we looked back through our history, we were inspired by some of our earlier branding, particularly the bold red that was once a prominent part of the G&R Farms identity. Rather than creating an entirely new brand, we wanted to bring that heritage back to the forefront, but in a way that feels fresh and relevant for today. The new brand builds around that signature red with a modern palette of green and gold, creating a look that feels both rooted in our history and representative of today’s G&R Farms.”

After 80 years, this refresh wasn’t about reinventing the company. It was about taking the strongest parts of G&R’s heritage and giving the brand a fresh, modern expression that can carry the supplier into the next generation.

The updated identity is being carried across virtually every G&R Farms consumer and customer touchpoint, but Steven Shuman, General Manager and Vice President of Sales, is especially excited about the new packaging.

“Our new consumer packaging is bold, colorful, and designed to stand out in the produce department. Our new bag designs are built to stand out at retail, but they also tell a piece of our story,” he explained. “Featured in the background is an illustration of G&R Farms’ original barn—a direct visual connection to our heritage and the generations that came before us. We love that juxtaposition: an image rooted in our history presented through bold colors and a fresh, modern design.”

G&R has also updated its boxes and retail bins, moving from traditional kraft to a crisp white that showcases the red, green, and gold branding while creating a cleaner, more elevated presence in the produce department that reinforces the premium quality shoppers expect from G&R Farms.

“Beyond packaging, our marketing materials and in-store point-of-sale have been refreshed with the updated identity, messaging, and recipes, and we’ve completely redesigned our website. The result is a cohesive brand experience from the produce aisle to the digital space,” Steven stated. “Whether someone sees us on a bag, a display in the produce department, a box in the supply chain, or online, we want them to immediately know: that’s G&R Farms.”

At the consumer level, it comes down to visibility, recognition, and ultimately driving purchase, Steven pointed out. The produce department is incredibly competitive, and consumers make decisions quickly; the company wanted packaging that commands attention at the shelf, clearly communicates quality, and gives shoppers a reason to choose G&R Farms.

“The new design creates a stronger visual presence that helps differentiate our onions and builds greater recognition for the G&R Farms name,” he continued. “But getting noticed is only the first step. We also want to turn that visibility into a stronger relationship with consumers. Through clearer messaging, recipes, and a more consistent brand experience, we have an opportunity to reinforce why G&R Farms Vidalia and Premium sweet onions are special, inspire additional uses and occasions, and encourage repeat purchases. For our retail partners, that means a brand designed not only to look great in the department, but to help create excitement, increase consumer engagement, and ultimately support sales.”

On a final note, Blake emphasized that what makes this evolution especially meaningful is the balance between 80 years of heritage and the future of the brand.

“There are very few brands that have the opportunity to look back on eight decades in agriculture. That history gives us tremendous pride, but it also gives us a responsibility to keep evolving. Consumer expectations change, retail changes, and the way we communicate with shoppers changes, but the importance of quality, trust, and authenticity does not,” Blake concluded. “This new identity brings those ideas together. It gives G&R Farms a stronger presence for the future without losing sight of the family, the land, the people, and the passion that has continued to build G&R Farms over the past 80 years. The look may be updated, but what it represents has been part of G&R Farms for generations: Grown with Passion, Served with Pride.”

As the bright red letters of G&R continue to make an impact in the produce aisle, AndNowUKnow will be here to bring you the latest.

LOS ANGELES, CA - Pacific Trellis Fruit is pleased to announce the promotions of Earl McMenamin to Category Director, North American Grapes, and Eve Kaudze to Senior Manager, Food Safety & Compliance, as well as the appointment of Sergio Rodriguez as Sales Executive in the company’s Fresno office.

McMenamin has been with Pacific Trellis Fruit since 1999 and brings more than 25 years of produce industry experience and category expertise to his new role. Previously serving as Category Manager for Mexico & California Grapes and Senior Sales Executive, McMenamin has played an integral role in growing the company’s grape business and building strong relationships with growers and customers. In his new role, he will continue to lead the company’s North American grape category and support its continued development.

Kaudze joined Pacific Trellis Fruit in July 2022 and has become an integral part of the company’s food safety program. Her expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to operational excellence have helped uphold high standards across the organization. As Senior Manager, Food Safety & Compliance, she will lead key food safety and compliance initiatives and continue advancing the company’s commitment to operational integrity.

Rodriguez joined Pacific Trellis Fruit this month as a Sales Executive in the company’s Fresno office. He brings more than 35 years of produce industry experience, including extensive expertise in citrus and a strong track record managing major retail accounts across both the East and West Coasts. Rodriguez brings valuable industry knowledge and well-established relationships to the company. In his new role, he will expand his focus on strengthening customer partnerships and identifying opportunities for continued growth.

“Earl’s extensive experience, industry relationships and deep understanding of the grape category have been instrumental to our business,” said Eric Coty, EVP of Fruit, in the recent release. “His promotion, along with Eve’s expanded leadership role in our food safety division, and the addition of Sergio to our sales team, further strengthens our organization as we continue to grow and serve our customers and grower partners through our investment in experienced professionals, growing our internal talent, and industry expertise.”

WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that Miami Growers Inc. has satisfied two reparation orders, one for $31,680 and another for $16,426, resulting from unpaid produce transactions under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA). The company has met its obligations and is now free to operate in the produce industry. Bhavin Hajariwala and Kantibhai V. Patel were listed as the officers, directors, and/or major stockholders of the business and may now be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee.

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.

Once a reparation order is fully satisfied and it is confirmed that there are no outstanding unpaid awards, USDA lifts the employment restrictions of the previously named, responsibly connected individuals. USDA also requires any unlicensed company that fully satisfies all unpaid reparation awards to obtain a license if it continues to operate in the industry.

For more information, contact Penny Robinson-Landrigan, PACA Dispute Resolution Branch, at (202) 720-2890 or [email protected].

WASHINGTON, DC - The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) issued the following statement following the implementation of new U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports:

 “The implementation of new tariffs on Canadian goods adds to the uncertainty facing the agriculture industry operating across the highly integrated North American market. Last year, Canada accounted for 48 percent of U.S. fresh produce exports, over $3.5 billion in produce sales. In total, the United States and Canada share nearly $6.5 billion in annual fresh produce trade. Canada is also a major supplier of cut florals and floral inputs, as well as an important source of critical inputs that U.S. fruit and vegetable growers rely on. A stable, predictable trade relationship with Canada is essential to the growers, businesses, and consumers who depend on a strong North American fresh produce supply chain.

 “IFPA encourages both governments to continue working toward a negotiated resolution that reduces trade barriers and provides the certainty growers need to plan, invest, and keep fresh produce available and affordable for consumers on both sides of the border.”

CARLISLE, PA & WASHINGTON, DC - As families across the East Coast head back to school, The GIANT Company and Partnership for a Healthier America (PHA) are teaming up to make the healthier choice the easier choice, turning everyday grocery runs into support for neighbors facing hunger.

From August 21 through September 3, GIANT and MARTIN’S customers can save on participating GOOD GOOD better-for-you products and, with each qualifying purchase, help fund healthy food access for families in need.

The in-store activation is part of a nationwide initiative connecting some of the nation’s most beloved food brands, retailers, and families through better-for-you products, backed by the Guiding Stars® nutrition standard. The back-to-school moment is one of the initiative’s first major in-store activations.

How the Back-to-School Campaign Works

Spend and save. From August 21 through September 3, customers who spend $10 on participating GOOD GOOD products at GIANT and MARTIN’S stores will save $5 at checkout.

Give back. With each $10 basket of participating products, The GIANT Company will make a $5 donation to support PHA’s healthy hunger relief initiatives, committing up to $100,000* to help families in need access healthy food. Every better-for-you basket does double duty: better nutrition for one family, supporting healthy food for another.

Where to find it. The campaign will be featured at all GIANT and MARTIN’S stores in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia, with support that includes a weekly circular feature, in-store signage and displays, digital media, and featured placement at checkout.

Participating GOOD GOOD Brands

Participating better-for-you brands featured in the back-to-school campaign include Kashi and Bear Naked (WK Kellogg Co), SkinnyPop (The Hershey Company), The Laughing Cow and GoGo squeeZ (Bel Brands, USA), Graza, Ripple, Capri Sun Hydrate (Kraft Heinz), and Crispy Green. Each product meets the GOOD GOOD mission of providing a better-for-you option for families looking to get the school year started right.

Quotes

“Back-to-school is one of the most important milestones on the calendar for families each year. It’s when parents are actively making choices about what goes in the cart, into the lunch box, and onto the menu. Through our partnership with The GIANT Company, we’re making it easier for families to choose better-for-you foods and turning those choices into access to healthier food for neighbors who need it. That’s the power of doing good for your family and good for someone else’s at the same time,” said Noreen Springstead, President and CEO, Partnership for a Healthier America, in the recent release.

“Nutrition plays a key role in helping students learn, grow, and thrive. We're proud to work alongside partners who share our commitment to eliminating hunger and are especially grateful to our generous customers for their support,” said John MacDonald, chief marketing officer, The GIANT Company. “Together, we're making it easier for children to access the nourishment they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond, while helping families focus on what matters most as they prepare for a new school year.”

“At Bel, we’re fighting for better snacking — and as a founding member of the Good Food Coalition, we’re turning that fight into action. This campaign means better back-to-school snacks, more savings for families, and more nutritious food for those who need it most,” said Peter McGuinness, CEO of Bel North America.

“At WK Kellogg Co, we believe everyone deserves access to nutritious food and the opportunity to thrive—a belief that is central to our Feeding Happiness™ sustainable business strategy,” said Sarah Ludmer, Chief Wellbeing and Sustainable Business Officer at WK Kellogg Co. “Through the Good Food Coalition, we're helping make simple, nutritious and trusted choices, like cereal, more accessible for families while creating meaningful impact beyond the cereal aisle. This back-to-school activation demonstrates the power of partnership—bringing together retailers, brands, and consumers to help nourish families today while supporting healthy food access for families in need.”

LOS ANGELES, CA - Berry Fresh is increasing its Oregon blueberry production through a new owned and operated farm, advancing the company’s plan to strengthen year-round supply of premium proprietary varieties. The investment expands Berry Fresh’s domestic program while providing retailers with greater continuity of supply, exceptional eating quality, and strong shelf life.

Development of the new Oregon farm is underway, building on Berry Fresh’s existing plantings in the region. Located close to Berry Fresh’s North Fork farm, the new farm will focus exclusively on proprietary genetics. As a vertically integrated grower, Berry Fresh manages the process from varietal selection and farming through harvest, packing, and marketing, providing greater control over quality and consistency from farm to customer.

“Investing in our own farms has been central to our growth from the beginning,” said Jorge Varela, CEO of AgroBerries, Berry Fresh’s parent company, in the recent release. “Combining owned production with access to leading proprietary genetics gives us greater control over supply. Our investment in Oregon builds on that foundation and strengthens our ability to deliver differentiated varieties to customers year-round.”

Initial plantings will include Sekoya Crunch®, Sekoya Nova® and Sekoya Fiesta®, alongside trials of additional proprietary varieties as Berry Fresh evaluates future commercial plantings for the region. The company’s expanding genetics portfolio also includes its recently announced licensing relationship with Mountain Blue Orchards (MBO)®, broadening access to premium blueberry genetics for North American production. As the Oregon program matures, Berry Fresh plans to introduce additional proprietary varieties suited to the region and extend availability of premium blueberries through the key North American summer window.

Berry Fresh’s Oregon investment extends beyond blueberries. The company is also tripling its Sweet Karoline® blackberry plantings in the region as part of its plan to increase summer availability and extend the season between its farms in Mexico and Oregon. Known for its exceptional flavor and consistent eating quality, Sweet Karoline® supports Berry Fresh’s plan to grow consumer demand for blackberries while providing retailers with a more reliable premium summer offering.

“Oregon is the cornerstone of our domestic blueberry program, and this expansion reflects our confidence in the region and our plan to make our Oregon farms a center of excellence for premium genetics,” said Darren Sinn, Berry Fresh’s VP of Operations & Supply Chain, who works closely with the company’s Oregon farming operations. “By continuing to invest in proprietary varieties and our own farms, we can build a more reliable year-round supply program for our customers while delivering an exceptional eating experience for consumers.”

Berry Fresh is a leading year-round grower and marketer of premium blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries to customers in the Americas.