Peaches are one of South Carolina’s most important crops, and in most years, the state grows more peaches than any other besides California, contributing about 17,000 acres to the industry.

“Our peaches are known for their sweetness and excellent flavor, and South Carolina’s location means lower transportation costs, better freshness and more convenience for buyers,” said Katie Pfeiffer, market development coordinator for the South Carolina Department of Agriculture. “This year’s South Carolina peach crop is shaping up nicely, with good volume. Some natural pruning earlier in the season

Produce industry veteran Scott Danner has been named as the new general manager of C&C Produce in Kansas City, MO.

“C&C has had a severe growth spike and I am humbled to join the team,” Danner said. “I’m looking forward to bringing my experience and industry contacts here to help them continue that spike in growth.”

As part of his role as general manager, Danner will oversee all departments, and look for efficiencies in operations.

Danner most recently served as president of Pembroke Park, FL-based Premier Produce, a position he held for nearly seven years. Prior to that, he held a 10

Russ Davis Wholesale announced the expansion of its leadership team with the goal of positioning the organization to meet the needs created by a growing demand for fresh food. Pat Miller will assume the role of chief marketing officer, Jerry Arne will be the vice president of business partnerships, Tyler Neu has been named vice president of retail sales and Matt Gross was promoted to vice president of operations.

“Creating these roles will help us achieve our long-term goals while also maintaining focus on excellence in customer service and quality as the foundation for future success,” said

Salinas Valley legacy grower-shipper Tanimura & Antle announced the return of fourth-generation family member Brian Antle as the company’s executive vice president of sales. In his new role, Antle will oversee the sales department and business development for the company’s premium fresh produce.

“I’m excited to return full time to a position at Tanimura & Antle and look forward to the opportunities and the future that lies ahead taking on this new role. I have enjoyed the opportunities I have been given to learn our family and employee-owned business from the ground up and now look forward to

Stater Bros. Markets recently donated 19,600 pounds of fresh apples to Feeding America Riverside I San Bernardino. The donation will ensure that local food banks are well-stocked with fresh produce. This donation is a result of Stater Bros. Markets’ participation in the Take a Bite Out of Hunger program sponsored by FirstFruits Marketing of Washington.

“We are extremely grateful to partner with FirstFruits Marketing and Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino,” said Nancy Negrette, chairman and president of Stater Bros. Charities. “Through these partnerships, we are able to give back to

Joolies, known for fresh organic California Medjool Dates, has expanded distribution to the U.S. East Coast and into Europe, including the United Kingdom. In the U.S., Joolies can now be found in the Mid-Atlantic in Shoprite, Safeway and Acme stores as well as Lowe’s Markets in the Carolinas. With this expanded distribution, Joolies Dates are now available in more than 2,000 locations.

The brand, based in Coachella and known for its vibrant mint packaging, is on a mission to change the organic date-ing game to bring new consumers into the category. Currently, household penetration of dates is