NEW YORK CITY, NY - As Hudson River Fruit Distributors prepares for its New Zealand import season, the company is a-flurry with activity. In order to get the latest scoop on premium varieties, retail promotions, and more, I turned to Alisha Albinder, Owner/Operator.
“This year marks our tenth year selling and marketing fresh-crop New Zealand apples,” Alisha shared with me. “We are excited to be promoting the club varieties Breeze™ and Cheekie™, alongside everyday varieties like Gala, Fuji, and Sonya. In order to help push sales at retail, we offer a special pop-up bin, which has been a proven success in marketing new varieties. Our first containers will land mid-April, and we look forward to this expanding program.”
New Zealand apples, Alisha noted, are the perfect item to add when planning out spring promotions. They offer a unique and different flavor profile at a limited time, so it’s important to play into the exclusivity of the product. Alisha added that these apples make for great in-and-out programs that offer something new to shoppers.
On the New York home front, Hudson River Fruit continues to see success in its SnapDragon® and RubyFrost® varieties, which have made record rankings this year in New England. According to Nielsen Data, SnapDragon ranks at number five in the mid-Atlantic in premium apple dollars and volume, with RubyFrost coming in at number three in New England. Snapdragon also had the highest growth rate in the South Atlantic of all premium apples.
“Both SnapDragon and RubyFrost have been in the market for roughly five years, so consumers have become familiar with its name and taste,” Alisha remarked. “Its fan base on social media has grown significantly, reaching millions of impressions per season. These apples also have a ton of marketing support which has made them shine in the produce aisle.”
They are currently available and will be shipping until June.
Need to make that produce aisle sing? Look no further.
As always, stick with AndNowUKnow as we cover the latest in all things produce.
CHICAGO, IL - The sale of fresh produce is the backbone of our industry, and this would not be possible without the technology that has evolved in recent decades. Furthermore, this technology would not be possible without the leaders who represent it. Hazel Technologies, a technology company delivering new packaging solutions for fresh produce, recently strengthened its leadership team by appointing Kelly Dietz as its new Vice President of Sales, who brings with her over 20 years of experience.
“Each step in my career has helped prepare me for this role; I am incredibly proud and excited to help lead Hazel’s continuing adoption across the fresh produce industry,” said Dietz.
As reported in a news release, Dietz holds a masters degree in food science from Penn State University and began her produce sales career at Grimmway Farms, ascending to Director of Sales and significantly expanding Grimmway’s penetration with East Coast retailers during a 15-year tenure.
More recently, Dietz has held executive roles as Director of Business Development at California-based Berry Fresh, and Vice President of Business Development at Florida-based Seald Sweet, a division of Greenyard.
"We are ecstatic to have a sales leader with Kelly’s impressive track-record joining the Hazel team,” said Aidan Mouat, CEO. “Kelly’s sales and business development experience in the produce industry will allow Hazel Tech to continue to share our new innovations with the industry, mentor future leaders at our company, and establish Hazel Tech as the leading post-harvest technology brand in the fresh produce category.”
Hazel’s patent-pending technologies, tested by many of the country's top academic research programs—including UC Davis, Cornell University, and Oregon State University—are expected to be used with over 3.2 billion pounds of fresh produce in 2020, preventing over 270 million pounds of fresh produce from going to waste.
Dietz’s role at Hazel Tech will focus primarily on sales, marketing, and business development growth and strategy. She will report to CMO Pat Flynn and will lead both the sales and business development departments.
Founded in 2015, Hazel Tech’s technologies revolve around the release of active, shelf-life enhancing vapor from packaging materials. Hazel products are placed in boxes of bulk produce by packers soon after the time of harvest, extending the shelf-life of produce up to three times by slowing aging in produce and preventing decay.
Here’s to another trailblazer stepping up to lead the charge of fresh produce sales! Keep reading ANUK to get the latest scoop on industry news.
CORAL GABLES, FL - The exciting world of marketing continues to evolve, and fresh minds help to keep pace with the changing market. Fresh Del Monte Produce continues to build its global brand image with the landmark addition of Elana Gold as Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).
In her new position, Gold will lead Fresh Del Monte’s global marketing functions, executing global, regional, and local marketing strategies aimed at delivering long-term and sustainable business growth for the iconic brand in this key role, according to a press release. Gold brings more than 25 years in building strategies, organizations, and capabilities for top global companies and brands, including Abbot, Novartis, PepsiCo, Sabra Foods, and Yum! Brands among others.
As the new Chief Marketing Officer, Gold will report to Fresh Del Monte Produce’s President and Chief Operating Officer, Youssef Zakharia.
“I am excited for Elana to bring her vast experience, creativity, and talent to the Fresh Del Monte Produce family,” commented Zakharia. “As we continue our roadmap to achieve our 5-year strategic objectives, including to become a consumer-driven company, it is clear that we need to build upon the great equity in our brands. Elana is just the right person to ensure we carry this through.”
Most recently, Gold served as Chief Commercial Officer at Before Brands, a VC-backed start-up, where she helped develop and launch a new category of the most advanced childhood nutritional products to reduce food allergy development risk in children.
Prior to joining Before Brands, Gold served as Divisional Vice President of Marketing (CMO) for Abbot Nutrition International. Under her leadership, the company launched a blockbuster infant formula brand into China and significantly grew both the infant and adult nutrition categories with breakthrough innovation and communication strategies.
Gold carries a reputation as a high-energy business builder with deep expertise in global marketing strategy, infusing deep analytics into effective communication strategies, and driving meaningful innovation throughout the customer journey. Speaking four languages and having worked in eight countries, Gold holds a BA from Emory University in foreign languages and an MBA from the Wharton School of Business in both marketing and finance.
Congratulations to Elana Gold on her new position! For more exciting developments in the fresh produce world, keep clicking back to AndNowUKnow.
WASHINGTON, DC - The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has filed an administrative complaint against Bella Fresh Houston LLC for failing to meet its contractual obligations issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA). The Texas-based company allegedly failed to make payment promptly to 10 produce sellers in the amount of $3,154,711 from December 2017 through May 2019.
Direct from the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service:
Bella Fresh Houston LLC will have an opportunity to request a hearing. Should the USDA find that the company committed repeated and flagrant violations, it would be barred from the produce industry as a licensee for three years, or two years with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond. Furthermore, its principals could not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee for two years, or one year with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond.
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, the 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 the 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.
BENTONVILLE, AR - How can retailers encourage consumers to practice social distancing? It is a difficult task that all our industry’s grocers have had to face as of late, and many are pivoting to “pick-up only” formats. Last week, Kroger announced that it was testing a pick-up only store, and Walmart recently launched a similar strategy. Announced in a statement from Janey Whiteside, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer, Walmart is honing in on two initiatives during this time.
“We’re in unprecedented times. The way we’re all living and shopping is changing. We know customers want and need to be served differently. And, we’re moving quickly to adapt to those changing needs. It’s one way we can help to add some stability to our customers’ lives,” explained Whiteside. “We’re adapting by offering customers no-contact services for payment, pickup, and delivery options. By doing this, we’re adding another layer of safety for our customers and associates.”
First off, Walmart is implementing a no-contact payment strategy that allows customers to check out with absolutely no contact at the registers. To do so, the retailer is launching Walmart Pay on the Walmart app. Now, all customers who have a smartphone can simply scan a QR code and Walmart Pay is synced, allowing customers to pay completely free of contact.
Second, Whiteside noted Walmart’s new no-contact pickup and delivery initiative as a response to challenges during this time. As the retailer has seen an overwhelming need for these services in the last number of weeks, Walmart is now adding even more safety measures. Pickup customers can simply open their trunk and associates will load their groceries in. And for delivery, drivers have been asked to simply leave the order on customers’ doorsteps.
Whiteside concluded her statement by expressing that customers and communities are relying on grocers now more than ever.
Check back in with ANUK for the latest updates happening across the produce industry.
WASHINGTON, DC - The $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was officially passed and signed late Friday. The move, which is being called a historic one to offer aid amidst COVID-19, includes upward of $9.5 billion for the ag industry.
The Act passed quickly, with a vote of 97-0 by the Senate before being followed by the House of Congress, and then finalized with a signature by President Trump.
“The COVID-19 outbreak has been devastating for much of our fresh produce supply chain,“ said Tom Stenzel, President and CEO of United Fresh. “We’re grateful that Congress came together in a bipartisan fashion to provide this incredible $2 trillion package to help mitigate some of the immediate consequences throughout the economy.”
Western Growers President and CEO Dave Puglia also supported the move as the news hit of the CARES Act passing.
“On behalf of the fresh produce industry, we applaud the collective efforts of both houses of Congress, as well as President Trump and his Administration, in crafting and passing a bill that will provide much-needed financial support for both farmers and Americans in every part of the country,” Puglia shared in a statement. “American farming companies, and their employees, are heroically shouldering the burden of providing our country with a safe, healthy, and ample food supply in the midst of our national crisis. We cannot afford to let the current economic disruption disrupt the production of our food. We are confident that provisions of the CARES Act, including emergency funding for specialty crop producers, small business loans, and tax relief, will help ensure our farmers and their employees can continue being the food heroes we need them to be.”
In addition to the $9.5 Billion Targeted Emergency COVID-19 Fund to support impacted agriculture, a United Fresh press release offered the following breakdown of the aid this passage will provide our industry:
- Paycheck Protection Program – $350 billion for new SBA 7(a) Loan Program for businesses with no more than 500 employees. Loans can be used for the following: payroll and benefits; mortgage interest payments (excluding principal and excluding pre-payments); rent; utilities; and interest payment on other debts
- Middle Market Loan Program – $454 billion will be available to “businesses not otherwise receiving adequate economic relief in loans and guarantees”. Most importantly, it requires the Treasury Secretary to provide financing to banks and other lenders to make direct loans to businesses with 500 to 10,000 employees at interest rates of not more than 2 percent and no interest or principal payments due within at least 6 months of loan origination
- Charitable Deductions – The CARES Act Increases the limitations on deductions for charitable contributions for corporations and individuals who itemize. In particular it increases the limitation on deductions for contributions of food inventory from 15 percent to 25 percent; for corporations, the 10 percent limitation is increased to 25 percent of taxable income; and for individuals, the 50 percent of AGI limitation is suspended for 2020
PMA has kept its members up to date on the developments in DC as well, following closely how those events might influence our industry.
“On Friday, March 27, President Trump signed the $2 trillion stimulus aimed at alleviating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the American public and U.S. economy,” PMA’s Richard Owen, Vice President of Global Membership and Engagement, said in a statement, alluding there is still more to be done. “PMA will work to encourage the Administration and other groups to ensure fresh produce and floral challenges related to COVID-19 are addressed in the implementation stage of the stimulus package.”
Stenzel, too, stated work continues on despite the good news from the Administration.
“Specifically, we thank Congressional leaders for including $9.5 billion targeted specifically for fruit and vegetables, livestock, dairy, and regional food systems,” Stenzel continued. “There is more work to do and we look forward to working with USDA Secretary Perdue and others to ensure that relief is felt throughout our supply chain. Our top priority remains stabilizing and ensuring that the entire fresh produce industry can keep the supply chain moving today, and be ready to support the foodservice economy when this crisis is over.”
A complete overview of the CARES Act by United Fresh, including additional resources for broader provisions, can be found here.
We understand that information is key as the industry works to serve all sides of the supply chain during this challenging time. AndNowUKnow will continue to keep you informed of the latest developments as they become available.
United Fresh Association Western Growers AssociationProduce Marketing Association
TRAVERSE CITY, MI - During this time of need, it’s heartwarming to know the produce industry is there for others when it's needed most. Recently, North Bay Produce announced it is giving back to the community with over 1,000 cases of apples.
“I really enjoy giving to Food Rescue because it helps so many people through all the food pantries. Over the years, we have been one of the largest contributors to Food Rescue and North Bay is very proud to be part of this organization,” said Ken Korson, Apple Category Manager for North Bay Produce.
According to a press release, Food Rescue, a Goodwill of Northern Michigan program, collects soon-to-expire, fresh, healthy food and distributes it to 48 food pantries, shelters, and community meal sites, same day, free of charge. Not only does this program help those in need, but it also reduces the amount of food waste.
North Bay’s shipment of apples is set to arrive on April 2 and will consist of 462 cases of bagged apples, equaling 20,000 pounds.
Simultaneously, North Bay began donating apples to Southern Michigan School Programs on March 27. This donation consists of 600 cases of bagged apples, equaling 22,000 pounds. North Bay’s donation is especially important right now since many children still rely on their schools for lunches during this crisis. The apple provider is planning on continuing this donation process throughout the spring in order to help feed our communities.
Continue reading AndNowUKnow as we cover more news in the fresh produce sector.
OXNARD, CA - Duda Farm Fresh Foods has increased the capacity of its fresh-cut facility by almost 50 percent, a three-year long project the company has been working toward to meet the demand it has experienced.
"The reason we [expanded] was because demand for our product, especially our Duda generations Dandy® varieties, has increased to the point where we needed to expand. The consumption of celery has increased significantly, partly due to juicing, just partly due to organic growth within the category," Sammy Duda, Senior Vice President, shares in our AndNowUKnow video exclusive.
The reason for the $5 million investment, the team shares, is not only to satisfy current demand but also for future demand. As this continues to climb, Duda shared that its varieities and the characteristics for flavor and crunch in its products have been what has really resonated with consumers.
"What we've experienced has been long-term, double-digit growth over the last several years, especially in the stick category," comments Mark Bassetti, Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Development. "What we're really seeing is consumers continue to look for quick, easy, and fresh ways to make a meal in today's fast-pace environment and there are ready-to-eat celery sticks in different forms from long stick to snacking items—as well as meal solution items."
To be in a position of "Celery Kings," as Sammy puts it, the company is working to meet the expectation, current demand, and future demand that come with such a title.
To see inside this latest expansion and learn how Duda is positioning itself to ensure its fresh-cut celery brings even more value to the market, watch the full video above.
WATSONVILLE, CA - While I hunker down in my home, I continue carrying on because I know the sweet strawberry season is almost upon us. California Giant Berry Farms is gearing up for its latest springtime promotion set for April, and word has it the promotion will be unique to all previous promotions done in springs past. I can almost taste the California strawberries already.
“Not only are our Watsonville and Salinas seasons kicking off this week, but our Santa Maria and Oxnard regions are currently loaded with fresh strawberries—with Oxnard to peak over the next two weeks, and Santa Maria continuing to increase with volumes unlike we have seen in years,” says Director of Retail Sales, Nick Chappell. “Not only are we about to have a momentous supply for our partners during a time of increased retail demand, but all regions are producing exceptional quality to kick-start the spring season.”
According to a press release, fields in Watsonville and Salinas, California, are bustling with shiny, red strawberries as the local season kicks off just in time for the Easter holiday in a few weeks. The promotion, dubbed ‘Back to the Basics’, will focus on continuing to move berry supply during heavy volume periods. This will provide families with recipe and content inspiration for heading ‘Back to the Basics’ as consumers are continuing to spend more time at home with their loved ones, finding comfort in food and experiencing a new virtual ‘togetherness.’
Now more than ever, shoppers are focused on health, wellness, and cooking in. While realities for most American’s look different these days, consumers' interest in snacking nutritiously and opting for fresh, whole berries through the spring and summer seasons is encouraging, with the berry company prepped and ready for consumer demand.
“With the uncertainties and difficulties families are currently facing, we wanted to offer an incentive and support to shoppers that are looking to stock up on fresh, nutritious berries on their grocery runs,” says Chappell.
In addition to its spring promotion, the berry grower launched an email-marketing campaign to target its most engaged shoppers in its database—which California Giant proudly calls its ‘Berry Squad’. Recent customer response statements to both consumers and trade customers received an outstanding 43 percent open rate—a nod to the berry grower’s loyal readership and strengthened partnerships.
“We’re seeing our database of loyal consumers more plugged-in and connected than ever before,” says Marketing Manager, Morgan Maitoza. “While routines and realities look very different for families across the nation at this time, our goal is to continue to connect with our shoppers and provide helpful, relatable, and comforting content and attainable recipes with ingredients and pantry staples shoppers may already have in their own homes while adding in the sweetness, diversity, and nutritional benefits of berries."
To follow along with California Giant Berry Farms' berry season, request to receive crop, news, and promotional updates through its weekly Trade Buzz Newsletter.
AndNowUKnow will continue to bring promotional news and crop updates as they come up, so keep following for the latest in fresh produce.
FLORIDA - More news recently surfaced surrounding Lucky’s Market and its Florida locations. Following closures, a bankruptcy filing, and completed sales, Lucky's has now announced that multiple retailers have officially claimed more of its former real estate. Amongst the new owners are Publix Super Markets, Aldi, and Schnuck Markets, with the acquisition deals overall totaling a sale of $29 million.
For Publix, this purchase is a strategic investment that is expected to help meet increased demands brought on by COVID-19. Though an official date for the facility conversions has not been announced, Publix stated that the earliest closing date will be April 13.
"After closing, there’s still the design and permitting phase, so construction would not begin immediately," Publix's Director of Media and Community Relations Maria Brous said Friday, according to the Tampa Bay Business Journal.
According to abc 17 News, 23 Lucky’s stores in total were sold to 10 different companies. This included Schnuck Markets, who purchased a store in Colombia, accelerating the grocer's expansion in that region.
"We intend to open and operate the store as a Schnucks as soon as possible, but do not yet have an opening date given the current circumstances," a Schnucks spokesperson said in a statement. "Schnucks' HR team plans to speak with all of the store's 89 employees and make employment offers to them."
The retailers that were part of the Florida purchase are as follows:
- Publix paid $11.5 million for five leased locations in Naples, Neptune Beach, Clermont, Orlando, and Ormond Beach
- Aldi purchased one Oakland Park-based store and five leased stores in Coral Springs, Sarasota, Vineland, Colonial Landing, and Venice for $7.8 million
- Southeastern Grocers bought four leased stores in Gainesville, Melbourne, Fort Myers, and Lake Mary for $2.4 million
- Seabra’s Market paid $1.25 million for a leased store in Hunter’s Creek
- Dollar General paid $1 million for an Orlando-based distribution center
- Shnuck Markets paid $86,000 for a new store
As the retail real estate landscape continues to shift, keep checking in with us at ANUK.