The Organic Produce Network (OPN) has announced a virtual online event featuring Stew Leonard, Jr., president and chief executive officer of Stew Leonard’s and Scott Schuette, vice president of produce and floral for Fresh Thyme Market, discussing how the organic fresh produce industry has fared at retail in 2020, sales and consumer purchasing behavior, merchandising opportunities and a preview of what to expect in 2021.

The exclusive online event will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 11 at 10 AM PDT.  Registration to view the session will open on Friday, Oct. 23.
 
In the first discussion

Carlos Bon Jr. became the vice president of sales for Divine Favor LLC on Oct. 1. His appointment follows the Oct. 1 retirement of Pedro Batiz Sr.

Batiz is a popular and highly respected veteran of the Mexican vegetable production and export business. For decades he has been a leader in the North American produce business.

Carlos Bon’s late father, Carlos Bon Sr., tragically died years ago. But his son credits his father and other family owner members of Divine Flavor and Grupo Alta for teaching him the right way to produce a successful produce business. “I learned from the best. I had

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has imposed sanctions on Benny F. Hall & Sons LLC in Oak Hall, VA, for violating the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. These sanctions include barring the business and the principal operator of the business from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without approval from USDA.

BHS failed to pay $503,744 to eight sellers for produce that was purchased, received and accepted in interstate and foreign commerce from July 2016 to August 2017. This is in violation of the PACA. BHS cannot operate in the produce industry until Oct. 7, 2022

The Kroger Co.  launched the first generation of Chefbot, its AI-powered Twitter recipe tool that helps users pair the groceries in their fridge and reduce food waste by providing mealtime inspiration and personalized recommendations.

Developed in partnership with integrated creative and media agency 360i, and technology partners Coffee Labs and Clarifai, Kroger's Chefbot offers an innovative and user-friendly conversational solution for breaking away from mundane mealtime routines and unwanted at-home food waste — common challenges for many as families continue to enjoy more meals together

Hazel Technologies, a USDA-funded company providing new technologies to extend the quality shelf life of produce and fight food waste, announces the launch of a new organic compatible product line, Hazel O, with Miami, FL-based WP Produce, the largest grower of tropical avocados in the world. As part of the partnership WP Produce has incorporated Hazel O into its supply chain and much anticipated two-count bag launch.

The Hazel O product is a sachet placed in a box of produce by the packer immediately following harvesting and packing. The sachet works by reducing the ethylene sensitivity of

Andy Hamilton will serve as Markon Cooperative's next CEO effective immediately. Hamilton comes from a strong background steeped in foodservice, sales, partnership relations, and operations management, and will focus on continuing to drive growth for the cooperative through brand leadership, culinary innovation, and 5-Star Food Safety.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to lead Markon and continue the legacy of excellence in the produce industry,” said Hamilton. “I’m excited to work with such an exceptional team of associates, as well as strong grower-shippers serving a thriving membership