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It's Mango Season at Freska
Well-Pict Peak Harvest Proprietary Berries, Fresh Buyers Inspection Consistency and Fruit Integrity
Well-Pict is now in peak harvest for its proprietary raspberry and strawberry varieties in Watsonville, California. Each of the company’s exclusive berries are bred for their excellent size and delicious flavor, and these particular varieties have a proven track record for exceeding Well-Pict's high standards for premium quality. So far
this season, which is about a week ahead of schedule, has been prolific. Dan Crowley, Sales Manager, tells AndNowuKnow, “There will be promotable volumes of our berries through the Summer and as the berry category continues to explode in health and wellness, we encourage retailers to jump on board this growing trend and watch their sales rise.”
Fresh Buyers Inspection is in the business of providing impartial fruit inspection and consultation services that facilitate trade between shippers and wholesale/retail marketers. The company's unique and specialized rating systems are tailored to the needs of each individual customer and establish a consistency and a level of fruit integrity from lot to lot. President and Owner, Kevin Beno, tells AndNowUKnow, "We are in the information business, and it is our company's goal to provide the comprehensive data needed on products from table grapes and tree fruit to melons and citrus to create the best conditions for the marketability of their fruit."
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: Well-Pict |Peak harvest for its proprietary varieties taps into growing demand for berry category Fresh Buyers Inspection | Unique and specialized rating systems establish consistency and fruit integrity Show Type: Quick DishBrooks Tropicals' SlimCado, Frieda's Angelcots
Brooks Tropicals is gearing up for its unique SlimCado program. The healthy treat offers half the fat and a third fewer calories than the hass avocado. Slimcados begin harvest this month. Supplies will pick up as the month progresses with promotable volumes for the 4th of July. The company is partnering again this year with Concord Food Guacamole Mix for the "Simple Guacamole Contest" starting July 1st. Consumers can submit recipes via Facebook for weekly prizes and a grand prize at the end of the contest. Mary Ostlund, Marketing Director, tells AndNowUKnow."Our volumes will be just as fantastic as last year. Typically, avocado trees have a peak year but we have had matching volumes for the past two and are expecting the same for this year as well. Consumers can find our avocados across the nation in almost all major retail chains."
Frieda’s exclusive Angelcots are back for a limited time. Available from Mid-June to the beginning of July, the unique California fruit boasts a vibrant flavor profile and vivid coloration. This is not an item you will see in wide distribution. Terri Mouton, Director of Marketing, tells AndNowUKnow, “This items has a taste so sweet and delicious that they are indeed, heavenly – hence the name, Angelcot. Consumers look for them at this time of year and understand that they have to get them while they’re available at select retail stores.”
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: Brooks Tropicals |Gearing up for its unique SlimCado program Friedas | Exclusive Angelcots back for a limited time Show Type: Quick DishBrian Evans Dishes on Stemilt's Upcoming Season and New Packaging
Stemilt Growers, is set to begin harvest on its 2013 crop. Brian Evans, Category Director for Stonefruit, joins AndNowUKnow to discuss the upcoming season that is just in time for great promotional opportunities in July. Stemilt’s apricot harvest is slated to kick off on June 24th and is expected to reach 200,000 cartons. Not only a leader in terms of volume, the company also has a strong organic program centered on flavor.
Stemilt has also added a new, resealable, random-weight pouch bag to its organic apricot packaging line-up this year. The bag offers consumers a high-value item in a convenient package. Designed to stand-up on display and in the refrigerator, it’s the perfect item to call attention to the high-flavored fruit. A QR code on the pouch bag provides consumers with additional information about Stemilt apricots, including nutrition information and who grew them.
Washington apricots are a natural transition from California and have become increasingly popular over the past several years. Thank you for joining us for this episode. AndNowUKnow
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: Stemilt | Brian Evans, Category Director for Stonefruit discusses the upcoming apricot season and new innovative packaging Show Type: Buyside NewsJan DeLyser
Jan DeLyser, Vice President of Marketing, California Avocado Commission joins Sarah Hoxie to discuss the great crop this year, upcoming promotions and initiatives and increasing avocado consumption.
One of the newest programs the commission has going on is a breakfast promotion. A large part of the growth in avocado consumption has been fueled by new usage ideas, and the promotion is an attempt to foray into the breakfast market.
In Memoriam Charles "Chuck" Collings
Former Raley's CEO Charles 'Chuck' Collings has passed away. Mr. Collings was actively involved with the West Sacramento company for nearly 50 years. He passed away this weekend at the age of 87. Mr. Collings retired in 1998, but continued to serve on the company's board after retirement. He was first elected to the board in 1957.
Mr. Collings' career in the grocery industry began in a small grocery store in Ada, Oklahoma, according to the Sacramento Bee. At 16, he became grocery manager of the store. Mr. Collings served three years in the U.S. Navy during World War II at which point he then returned to work for a wholesale meat packer.
In 1956, Chuck was recruited by Tom Raley, Company Founder, to join Raley's management team. In 1969, Mr. Collings became President of Raley's Superstores. In 1992, Mr. Collings was appointed Raley's CEO. He stayed on the board of directors until 2006, with additional title of CEO Emeritus.
Michael Teel, current Raley's President and CEO, and the grandson of Founder Tom Raley, was noted as saying, "Chuck was Raley's. He was a strong leader who set high expectations for business performance and a moral tone for all to follow."
Mr. Collings is past chairman of the California Grocers Association and of the CGA Educational Foundation. In 1998, he was inducted into the California Grocers' Hall of Fame.
A local memorial service will be held near the end of this month.
AndNowUKnow would like to extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Collings family and friends.
Freska In-Store Demo Benefits, Gentile Bros Introducing New Sugar & Spice Salsa
Freska is increasing mango consumption here in the US and internationally by hosting in store demos with mangos. Awareness in terms of variety, flavor ,and availability is key for the customer as mango presence in produce departments and restaurant menus continues to grow. Gary Clevenger, Managing Member and Co-Founder, tells AndNowuKnow, "A demonstration puts the ball in the consumers' court and allows them to discover the wonders of one of the world's most desirable fruits. The more educated a consumer feels about a specific product, the more inspired they feel to buy it."
Gentile Bros. is introducing its new Sugar & Spice Salsa, created in partnership with manufacturer Seasonal Selections. The product ranges from mild to extra hot and boasts a unique flavor profile, as added sugar makes for a blend of sweet and spice. President and Owner, Jeff Oaks, says “The partnership is a natural fit as Gentile supplies all of the produce ingredients necessary to produce the product throughout most of the year. During the summer months, Seasonal Selections does their best to grow the necessary ingredients and supplements any shortfalls through Gentile Bros.”
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: Freska | Inspiring retailers and consumers through in-store mango demos Gentile Bros. | Introducing a new item and new partnership Show Type: Quick DishVillage Farms Exquisite Heirloom Tomatoes
Welcome to Shop Talk! In this episode Doug Kling, Chief Marketing Officer, Village Farms, joins AndNowUKnow to dish on the company's proprietary varieties and new award winning packaging.
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: Village Farms | Highlights proprietary variety with NEW, award-winning packaging Show Type: Shop TalkWP Rawl New Nature’s Greens Organic Baby Kale and Vita Blend, Bay Baby Produce New Fruit Deco
WP Rawl is launching new organic kale clams: Nature’s Greens Organic Baby Kale and Vita Blend. These items are chockfull of vitamins and minerals. The Vita Blend is so named because the blend of greens inside—organic baby kale, spinach, chard, and beet tops—gives you the energy to lead a life full of “vitality.” Also under the Nature’s Greens brand, WP Rawl is introducing its new Savory Selections line of value-added, microwaveable bags. These quick and easy-to-use items come with a flavor puck in each bag in three flavors: Shredded Collards with Smoky Bacon Butter, Shredded Kale with Balsamic Bacon Butter, and Shredded Collards & Cabbage with Smoky Bacon Butter.
Bay Baby Produce has a great new way to have fun with fruit: Fruit Deco, a proprietary process that allows just about any logo, slogan, or design to adhere directly to a variety of fruits and vegetables. Fruit Deco, is completely edible and tasteless, consisting of soya, fructose, and, coloring. The Fruit Deco® brand offers premium gift-quality fruits that are individually decorated using the company’s own Fruit Deco® recipe. President, Michele Youngquist, tells, AndNowUKnow, “We are excited about a new similar product that will be released soon!”
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: WP Rawl | Launching two new organic kale items Bay Baby Produce| Presenting a great new way to have fun with your fruit Show Type: Quick DishD'Arrigo Bros NEW Offerings, Pier-C Carrot Production
D’Arrigo Bros is currently promoting its Premium Cut Iceless Rabe 2 lb and 12 oz bags. This value-added option is intended to capitalize on the growing iceless trend. The company is focusing on educating all consumers about how to cook the nutritious product and what to cook it with, particularly in regions that are not yet large consumers of broccoli rabe. Also in the works, Andy Boy Artichokes are set to be released in the next few months. Gabriela D’Arrigo, Sales/Marketing, tells AndNowUKnow, “We’re really excited to add this new piece of produce to the D’Arrigo Puzzle.”
Pier–C’s Mexican carrots are in strong production, and will continue through the end of July when they shift into Canadian Carrots, Onions, and Green Bell Peppers. The company is experiencing strong growth throughout North America and abroad, and is continuing to expand out of both Canada and Mexico. Supplies are increasing and demand is growing exponentially. Due to the company’s location in Southwestern Ontario, Pier-C's Canadian production is typically ready for harvest 2 to 3 weeks before other area producers. Joe Khalil, Sales Manager, tells AndNowUKnow, "Superior quality at competitive pricing year round has allowed us to strive, despite fluctuating markets and increasing global competition."
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: D'Arrigo Bros | To introduce two NEW offerings to its portfolio Pier-C | Carrot production out of this Southern locale in full swing Show Type: Quick DishCurry and Co. Walla Walla Sweet Onion Program, Tomato Thyme Proprietary RubyRipes Cocktail Tomato
Curry and Co. is gearing up for the company's Walla Walla, Washington Sweet Onion program. Kicking off in mid-June the season will last through August with peak hitting in July. The market has been good for Walla Walla's over the past several years as demand for great quality sweet onions continues to grow. President, Matt Curry, tells AndNowUKnow, "We are expecting a great crop this season and retailers can purchase sweet onions with confidence from our company. We have an excellent field team and state-of-the-art packing facilities which are always delivering consistent quality."
Tomato Thyme is picking up momentum on its RubyRipes, cocktail tomatoes. RubyRipes offer a very sweet eating experience with a very low level of tartness. Brix tests from the company's West Palm Beach farm presented an average of 8.3 with a high of 8.9. Tomato Thyme has also expanded its production this year, with new acreage in Tennessee and New York to assist in the RubyRipes year-round supply. The company offers promotions and opportunities tailored to each customer. Amanda Wigley, Manager of Marketing & Advertising, tells AndNowUKnow, "Volume and quality look great on this unique variety. They are vine-ripened and smaller than a Roma but larger than a cherry tomato and offer a very high harvest yield."
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: Curry and Co.| Gearing up for the company's Walla Walla, Washington Sweet Onion program Tomato Thyme | Presenting its proprietary RubyRipes, cocktail tomatoes with expanded acreage and promotional opportunities Show Type: Quick DishIn Memoriam Barnette Ellis "Barney" Greene Jr.
Florida citrus industry leader Barnette Ellis "Barney" Greene, Jr. passed away on May 31, 2013.
Barney established Greene Groves and Ranch, Greene's Citrus Management, and Greene River Packing and Marketing where he served Florida's citrus industry and remained very active until his passing. His contributions to the production, packing and marketing of citrus world-wide made him both an industry leader and pioneer.
The fifth generation Floridian was born in Orlando on September 30, 1922, to Barnette Ellis Greene, Sr. and Ella SeBelle Smith Greene. Barney's career as an Indian River citrus pioneer was shaped during his childhood by his father's dedication and diligence as a bookkeeper, and his mother's backyard flower business. He began a distinguished career as a respected citrus grower and cattle rancher when he went to work for American Fruit Growers. Here, Barney was mentored by Bob Edsall for 13 years.
The industry veteran was involved in a variety of organizations and received numerous awards for his generosity and for contributions to Florida agricultural industries. Barney was inducted into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame, Florida Citrus Hall of Fame, University of Florida Agricultural Alumni and Friends Award of Distinction, and University of Florida IFAS Outstanding Agriculturalist.
In addition, Barney also helped establish the Indian River Community College Agriculture Endowment Fund.
Barney was preceded in death by his younger brother, Jack Irvine Greene. Barney will be profoundly missed by his devoted wife Hariot. He was able to work each day with his children Janie, Ellis (Kathy), Griffin (Camille) and Kelly (Linda). He was extremely proud of his grandchildren Scott, Derek, Jasaline, Amanda, Whitney, Lyndal, Aubrey, Anabelle, Kolby, Kylee, Sara, and his four great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 5 - 7 p.m., Friday, June 7, 2013 at First United Methodist Church, Vero Beach.
AndNowUKnow would like to offer our deepest condolences to Barney's family and friends.
Newsletter Blurb: Barnette Ellis "Barney" Greene Jr. |Florida citrus industry leader has passed away Show Type: Headlines Video Tumbnail Two: Memoriam Piece?: Yes, this is a memorial piece. Let's show some respect.David Anthony From Ruby Fresh United Fresh 2013
Hood River Cherry Company
At Hood River Cherry Company, the cherries are growing plump in the Oregon sunshine. It won’t be long until harvest is in full swing at our family-owned and operated orchard.
Since 1996, we’ve built a reputation for growing the best cherries available in the market. From our orchards high in the valley near the base of Mt. Hood, we let our cherries ripen slowly. Big, juicy and flavorful, our five varieties of high-elevation cherries are bursting with the sweetness that comes from long ripening on the tree. It’s the taste of Mother Nature’s magic on a stem.
Unlike our large agribusiness competitors, we make quality – not volume – our top priority. As the source of tree-ripened cherries in the Northwest, we produce fewer tons of fruit per acre to ensure our cherries are bigger, sweeter and better tasting. Before harvesting, we wait patiently for sugar levels to reach 21 brix – considerably higher than the conventional standard of 15 to 17 brix.
We pick all of our cherries by hand and hydro-cool them within hours in our own packinghouse. Soon they’re on their way from our family to you, arriving fresh and flavorful for your customers.
Harvest is just around the corner! Our first shipments begin July 15 and continue until September 1. We ship in 18 pound cartons and 5 kilogram bulk cartons. Bring Mother Nature’s magic on a stem to your customers.
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: Hood River Cherry Company| Presenting 5 varieties of unique high-elevation, tree ripened cherries in the upcoming months Show Type: What's In StoreGiant Eagle Express Opens in Pennsylvania
Giant Eagle Express has opened a new 24 hour store at 435 South 7th Street in Indiana, Pa. The 14,000 square-foot store will feature a fresh selection of prepared foods, an in-store bakery, meat and seafood offerings, farm fresh produce, and a wide selection of the most commonly shopped for grocery items.The stores easy-to-shop format offers customers time-saving convenience with a touch screen kiosk allowing shoppers to custom-order restaurant quality prepared food offerings including pizzas, subs, salads, wraps and more. The store also features a world of beverages, including fountain drinks, energy drinks, bottled waters and tea plus over 150 varieties of domestic and imported beers. Vice President of Giant Eagle Express Dave Daniel said, "Our new Indiana Giant Eagle Express features all of the fresh food offerings customers expect from Giant Eagle, in a contemporary, neighborhood grocery format." He continued, "We believe it fits the need right here in the center of town, with the nearby university and area residents."
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: Giant Eagle| Expanding its footprint in Pennsylvania Show Type: Buyside NewsSpecial Report Randy Brittain
The VP of Foodservice & Industrial Sales for Grimmway Farms joins Sarah Hoxie to share her recent Woman of the Year honor, the defining influences of Bob and Rod Grimm and how the industry has helped shape her as much as she has helped shaped the industry...
The Director of Procurement for the Military Produce Group joins Sarah Hoxie to discuss the company’s role in supplying produce to commissaries in the Eastern U.S. Brittain said, “We’re a private company but we’re a government contractor. We got started in 2004, with a six month test for 19 stores. Now we’ve grown to serve three contracts for the entire Eastern U.S.”
What's in Store - Homegrown Organics Flavorosa Pluots
Welcome to What's In Store. Homegrown Organics has kicked off its stone fruit season with an especially unique offering. The Flavorosa Pluot, a cross between a plum and apricot, is incredibly sweet with a deep red and juicy flesh that is packed with flavor and aroma. This special variety has been compared to the heirloom variety Santa Rosa, in both flavor and quality.
These early stone fruit gems are a perfect way to introduce consumers to the hybrid category while tapping into the demands of many foodies and to home chefs who are looking for a unique way to create and compliment a dish, appetizer and dessert or even just to spice up the kitchen produce basket or display. The Flavorosa Pluot has been referred to as an “over the sink plum” as they offer quite the juicy eating experience.
This year, Homegrown Organic Farms is presenting retailers with a terrific crop of organic Flavorosa Pluots which will allow the company an excellent opportunity to create tailored ads and promotions for customers. The 2013 Flavorosa Pluots are being harvested now and will continue through the first 7-10 days of June. Homegrown Organic Farms is always happy to offer POS material to all its customers to help them merchandise the grower's fresh organic fruit options with social media, demos, and grower bios. The time has arrived to excite consumer palettes with "nature's candy." Thank you for watching this episode of What's In Store.
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: Homegrown Organics | Kicks off its stone fruit season with an especially unique offering: The Flavorosa Pluot Show Type: What's In StorePrime Time Peak Pepper Season, Allen Lund Adds Russ O'Quinn
Prime Time International has entered peak season on its items in Coachella, California. The company will have promotable volumes over the next month on its regular and mini peppers. Mike Aiton, Director of Marketing, tells AndNowUKnow, "This season we will double production of our sweet mini peppers. Warm weather has accelerated the harvest this year on the region's crops, which may mean Coachella could end earlier than normal.” Demand for the category is on the rise and Summer is a great time to promote with big vibrant displays for everything from Summer grilling to fresh salad ingredients.
The Allen Lund Company welcomes Russ O’Quinn to the team as the National Accounts Manager for its Savannah Office. O’Quinn has 27 years of sales experience in Savannah and finished his career in the paper market five years ago. He comes to the company from the retail sales market of Advance Auto Parts Commercial Team. O'Quinn is excited about the opportunity to work in his new role at the Allen Lund Company. Eddie Lund, Vice President of Sales and Branch Operations, tells AndNowUKnow, “We are thrilled to have Russ join the ALC team, specifically to target shippers and growers in the Southeast region.”
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: PrimeTime| Promotable volumes for its regular and mini peppers Allen Lund| Welcomes new National Accounts Manager to the team Show Type: Quick DishDulcinea Peak Season and New Melon, Georgia Peach Council Promotes Sweet Georgia Peaches
Dulcinea is entering peak season on its domestic production in Yuma, and the San Joaquin Valley, as well as in Florida, Kentucky, and North Carolina. Peak typically starts the end of May and runs through mid September. General Manager, John McGuigan, tells AndNowUKnow, "We anticipate another active and productive year in the watermelon category with both minis and full size seedless. The cantaloupe category is still rebounding, but we see a consistently strong demand for our Tuscan cantaloupes." The company is also trialing a new orange flesh honeydew called Orange Bliss. This is a small pre-commercial trial but Dulcinea is very excited about the flavor and taste profile of this melon.
Despite a temperamental Spring that delayed the Georgia peach harvest a few weeks this year, the group is gearing up to promote "Sweet Georgia Peaches." The state, which represents about two million packages in the peach industry, has experienced cooler weather this season, which delayed the crop but may also make for a more flavorful and larger peach. The Flavor Rich variety is in high demand again this season and will be accompanied by at least 30 more varieties throughout the Summer. As the season progresses, retail produce departments will be hosting a "Georgia in July" theme as cling stone peaches transition to free stone varieties. Will McGehee, Marketing Director, tells AndNowUKnow, "With Summer on the brain, peaches get consumers excited and we are looking forward to a great year with tailored retail programs and a consistent flow of product."
Video Tumbnail Two: Home Page Gallery Image: Newsletter Blurb: Dulcinea | Company is entering peak season on its domestic melon production with new addition to its portfolio Georgia Peach Council | Promoting "Sweet Georgia Peaches" with tailored retail programs and a consistent flow of product Show Type: Quick DishSpecial Report Lisa McNeece Reflects on the Woman of Year Award and Her Grimmway Mentors
The VP of Foodservice & Industrial Sales for Grimmway Farms joins Sarah Hoxie to share her recent Woman of the Year honor, the defining influences of Bob and Rod Grimm and how the industry has helped shape her as much as she has helped shaped the industry. “It’s been an unbelievable award to be honored with, to be able to stand before so many past honorees who I have the utmost respect for and have always been strong leaders,” said McNeece. “We’ve all been side by side in this industry, and so to be able to be right next to them right now and be honored with this award is unbelievable.”
Video Tumbnail Two: Newsletter Blurb: Lisa McNeece |The VP of Foodservice & Industrial Sales for Grimmway Farms joins Sarah Hoxie to share her recent Woman of the Year honor, the defining influences of Bob and Rod Grimm and how the industry has helped shape her as much as she has helped shaped the industry Show Type: Special Report