NEW YORK - It was just a little over a month ago when we reported on Lidl’s latest New York expansion and the company is already back with another addition—this time in Manhattan.

“Lidl US is excited to expand our presence in Manhattan on the Lower East Side. It was clear from the beginning that our mission—to deliver high quality, affordable groceries at affordable prices and Grand Street Guild’s mission—to provide high quality, affordable housing were the perfect match,” remarked Or Raitses, Senior Director, Real Estate, Lidl US. “We thank the Grand Street Guild for their dedication to the community and for their partnership to bring these basic needs to residents on the Lower East Side.”

According to a press release, Lidl agreed on lease terms with affordable housing non-profit Grand Street Guild.

The 23,000-square-foot location will be Lidl US’ third location in Manhattan. The store is expected to open in the summer of 2025.

Keep reading us here at AndNowUKnow for the latest updates across retail.

WENATCHEE, WA - As advocates for the many formidable companies that make up the ag industry, we are always excited to see fruit producers gain some well-deserved recognition. Stemilt took the spotlight in a recent Family Business Magazine article titled Always Growing, in which President West Mathison and Vice President of Sales Tate Mathison discussed the trials and triumphs behind the company’s 60-year history as a family-owned business.

“Being family-owned means Stemilt is part of our family legacy,” says West. “I think a big part of who we are stems from my grandfather and the adversities he faced growing up, in World War II and with mother nature on the farm. Not one day is ever the same, each year brings a new set of challenges for us to find ways to overcome. But like my grandmother used to say, ‘the way we’re going to make this place pay is with a positive attitude and a smile.’ I think it’s our passion for growing fruit that will always keep us persevering.”

2024 marks a milestone year for Stemilt, as the supplier celebrates its 60^th anniversary in honor of Thomas C. Mathison, who established the company in 1964. In 2005, Thomas transferred leadership of Stemilt to his grandson, West, who currently guides Stemilt on its mission to cultivate people and delight consumers through excellence through its World Famous Fruit brand, a press release explained.

“When we came up with the brand World Famous Fruit, we knew it was going to be a journey, not a destination,” says West. “Looking back on the past 60 years, we’ve accomplished so much from being the first to put a branded sticker on apples, bagging cherries, and coming up with new brands like Rave® apples and Happi Pear®. One thing we often say around here is it takes a village, and that is the way we will continue another 60 years of growing tree fruits to delight consumers.”

At the start of the year, Stemilt celebrated this symbolic anniversary with a celebration for its employees. The celebration is set to continue throughout 2024, with a marketing campaign showcasing the deep family roots at Stemilt launching in September. As the release went on to note, elements from the campaign will also make an appearance at Stemilt’s booth during the 2024 International Fresh Produce Association’s Global Floral & Produce Show in Atlanta, Georgia.

“Their business was once a small homestead near the current headquarters in Wenatchee, Washington, but it’s grown to a corporation with 1,600 full-time employees, a governing board, and a formal succession plan,” Sarah Brodsky, reporter for Family Business Magazine, wrote. “Technological innovations have played a major role in the company’s success, propelling it to its current position as the largest sweet cherry grower, packer, and marketer in North America.”

Cheers to Stemilt and its strong 60-year history!

MCALLEN, TX - A new leader is joining the ranks at Fox Solutions. Ben Bliven steps into the role of Senior Manufacturing and Operations Manager.

“I am excited to join Fox Solutions and lead the manufacturing and operations team,” commented Bliven on his appointment. “I look forward to working with such a talented group of professionals and contributing to the company’s vision of innovation and excellence.”

As the Senior Manufacturing and Operations Manager at Fox Solutions, he will play a pivotal role in the company. According to a press release, he will oversee day-to-day operations to ensure production targets and quality standards are met.

His responsibilities include managing supply chains and resources, implementing lean manufacturing processes, and monitoring production costs to maintain profitability. Bliven will also ensure compliance with safety regulations and work closely with quality control personnel to uphold product standards.

With over 15 years of experience in the manufacturing and operations sector, he brings a wealth of experience. His expertise in streamlining operations and optimizing supply chain management strengthens Fox’s reputation for reliability and excellence. Not to mention that his leadership will ensure improved product quality, cost reduction, and enhanced customer satisfaction, thereby bolstering the company’s market position.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ben Bliven to the Fox Solutions family,” said Aaron Fox, President of Fox Solutions. “His extensive experience and proven track record in the industry make him an invaluable addition to our team. This hiring comes at a crucial time when packing automation is in high demand. Ben’s leadership will support our operational strategies and contribute to the continued success of Fox Solutions.”

Bliven will also be involved in long-term planning for facilities, equipment, materials, and technology to maintain manufacturing capacity, and will play a crucial role in workforce development.

We’ll continue to keep our eyes peeled on the latest industry news, so stay tuned!

ORLANDO, FL - A brand leader in value-added salads (VAS) with winning flavor combinations, Fresh Express®, has dropped some big news. It brought a breakthrough in product innovation with the introduction of Hot or Cold Salad and Noodle Meal Kits. Available in three Asian-inspired flavors, these kits feature a blend of chilled, freshly chopped vegetables; ready-to-eat, pre-cooked noodles; gourmet dressing sauce; and crispy toppings that can be eaten hot or cold. There are even two meal options per bag.

“Tracking consumer behavior and restaurant trends, we saw a big market opportunity for healthier, affordable, premium restaurant-inspired meals at home, that go beyond just salad greens,” said Fabian Pereira, Vice President of Marketing and Innovation. “After extensive consumer research, exhaustive product development, and robust consumer testing, we’re thrilled to bring Hot or Cold Salad and Noodle Meal Kits to the category and provide consumers with the option to enjoy an irresistibly cool salad straight out of the bag or a quick and easy warm meal in just five minutes.”

Here is a breakdown of the Hot or Cold Salad and Noodle Meal Kits:

• Teriyaki: A blend of broccoli, red and green cabbage, kale, shredded carrots, radish, and green onions tossed with pre-cooked Udon noodles, white sesame seeds, and crunchy wontons, finished with Teriyaki dressing sauce
• Asian Sweet Ginger: This combination of flavors combines pre-cooked soft flat wheat noodles, red and green cabbage, kale, broccoli, shredded carrots, and green onions with a sweet ginger dressing sauce and wonton strips
• Korean Sesame: A savory mix of green and red cabbage, broccoli, kale, shredded carrots, and green onions, tossed with pre-cooked Udon noodles, finished with a soy Hoisin chili dressing sauce and sesame sticks

The new breakthrough product will be extensively supported both at retail and outside the store to drive rapid consumer awareness, trial, and adoption, a press release shared. These new VAS category products further prove how the brand is committed to delivering convenience and high quality that make mealtime easier for consumers. The versatility of these quick meals is also a compelling reason for consumers and retailers alike.

So, start brushing off your shelves! The Hot or Cold Salad and Noodle Meal Kits have a suggested retail price of $5.99 and will be available to merchandise next to fresh pre-cut vegetables or in the salad kit section starting in late September.

For more innovative updates in the value-added category and beyond, click back to ANUK.