Topline Farms, a family-owned leader in premium greenhouse-grown produce, announced the appointment of Chris Veillon as vice president of marketing.

A seasoned brand marketing expert with two decades of experience in the greenhouse produce industry, Veillon will spearhead Topline Farms’ marketing initiatives to enhance brand visibility and drive growth across North America.

Veillon brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge in brand strategy, consumer engagement and innovative marketing approaches. Known for creating successful product and brand campaigns and having a deep understanding of the

The International Fresh Produce Association members Amanda Felder and Andrea Hatziyannis have been appointed to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Standards Board.

Felder is the organic integrity and environmental compliance manager at Taylor Farms, and Hatziyannis is the category strategy manager at Sprouts Farmers Market.

The NOSB serves as an advisory body to the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, providing recommendations on policies governing the production and distribution of organic food and products. This includes reviewing and developing the National List of Approved

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the appointment of 11 members to Potatoes USA’s board of directors. The appointees include nine producer members and one public member, who will serve three-year terms that expire Feb. 28, 2028. One producer member will serve a two-year term that expires on Feb. 28, 2027.
 
The nomination process for board members is conducted annually. Candidates are proposed by the industry and are appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture after a thorough review.
 
The Potatoes USA board of directors guides the organization’s efforts to promote and support the

Maureen Royal, a pioneer in the organic produce trade and a mentor to countless individuals throughout her career, died Dec. 26.

Her warmth, genuine care, and unwavering support earned her the affectionate nickname "Mother Mo" among customers, growers and colleagues alike. Ms. Royal's exceptional interpersonal skills and belief that "taking care of people was the primary job" were evident in her generosity, selflessness and dedication to helping others.

At a time when few women worked in the produce business, Ms. Royal forged a remarkable path. She progressed from an executive assistant at

Bako Sweet has promoted Susan Noritake to vice president of sales and marketing. In her new role, Noritake will continue to lead the team with a focus on strategic growth and innovation.

Noritake joined Bako Sweet in June 2023 as director of sales and has since been instrumental in leading the company’s sales and marketing efforts, delivering innovative solutions that elevate both the Bako Sweet brand and the sweet potato category. With 30 years of experience in sales and marketing at companies like Zespri International, Duda Farm Fresh Foods, Mann Packing and Gill’s Onions, she brings a

Empower Fresh Co. announced the appointment of Robert Austin as president and CEO. Austin has been with the company since its inception and has served many roles, including senior vice president of sales. His appointment to CEO is one of many new moves the company is making as it looks to optimize its structure to better prepare for significant customer growth in 2025 due to the demand for its products.

Austin is a second-generation produce professional, notably the son of Dave Austin, who was instrumental in the Wholesale Produce market in the Midwest while GM at Pisciotta Fruits &