As the new year begins, ZAG Technical Services encourages businesses to prioritize IT and cybersecurity to ensure smooth and secure operations.

For many small and mid-sized businesses, the importance of IT in daily operations often becomes apparent only when issues arise. Tangible needs like equipment upgrades or facility improvements frequently take precedence because their impact is more immediately visible. However, a strategic IT plan delivers significant long-term benefits, including reduced costs, time savings and minimized disruptions.

With an ever-changing threat landscape and

The Southeast Produce Council is embarking on the third year of the SEPC Next Generation Leadership Academy (NGLA), and it is now accepting applications for the 2026 Class.

This year-long professional development program is truly unique and is designed for up-and-coming leaders in the produce industry. The program provides participants with a unique approach to conscious leadership ideals and methodologies.

Participants will develop and galvanize leadership skills to better navigate industry challenges with a growth mindset. The Academy features quarterly modules that will include

Grocery Outlet Holding Corp. announced a free groceries for life sweepstakes, where customers can enter for a chance to win a range of prizes, including a lifetime of free groceries.

“This sweepstakes puts the treasure in treasure hunt,” said Eric Lindberg, Grocery Outlet’s chairman and interim president and CEO. “We are absolutely thrilled to be able to offer this free groceries for life sweepstakes to our loyal shoppers and any new ones that come along.”

To enter, new and existing mobile app users can enter their phone number into the point-of-sale pin pad or show their app to the cashier

Westfalia Fruit has completed the acquisition of Syros, a Belgian-based manufacturer of avocado products serving the European food and service industry as well as retail sectors.

For over 30 years, Syros has been producing high-quality avocado-based products for major European supermarkets, restaurant chains and meal box companies. The company supplies both private label and branded products with a focus on convenient, healthy and sustainable food solutions. Across its portfolio, which contains a wide range of guacamole varieties, there is a strong emphasis on the health and nutritional

FirstFruits Farms partnered with the Junior Basketball League. This collaboration expands on Opal’s Youth Make a Difference program, furthering its mission to inspire young leaders, promote healthy lifestyles and strengthen communities.

JrTBL is a free component of The Basketball League that includes 49 professional teams across the United States and Canada. Designed for young players ages 8-17, JrTBL focuses on community engagement and personal growth, connected by a love for the game of basketball.

Opal’s longstanding support for young leaders across the country makes this partnership a

Tops Friendly Markets announced that during the month of January 2025 it is once again offering schools the chance to earn double the rewards as part of its Tops in Education Program. Participants enrolled in the program will now be able to earn up to 10 percent for their school during the month of January.

From Jan. 1 through Jan. 31 designated schools will earn double the rewards when they purchase participating products with a registered Tops BonusPlus Card. 

“As the new year is just getting under way, Tops wants to ensure that our local schools have the tools they need in order to