Armand Lobato

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A produce manager should encourage staff to do not only what’s expected, but exceed expectations, to benefit themselves, other shifts — and customers, says columnist Armand Lobato.
When a challenge arises in produce, hesitation and inaction can lead to an undesirable outcome. Sometimes the best option is to “just lower your head and push,” says columnist Armand Lobato.
If a grocer is built properly for convenience, with good customer service, a tired shopper is more likely to head to that store at the end of the day, says columnist Armand Lobato.
Columnist Armand Lobato explains how adhering to the meaning of this French phrase can help optimize labor scheduling, product ordering and merchandising.
Just like home, something always needs to be maintained in the produce department. If not done in a timely manner, things only get worse — and shoppers will notice, says columnist Armand Lobato.
A busy travel and work schedule is one reason columnist Armand Lobato says he doesn’t have a backyard garden. And the other reason …
When the senior bus rolls up, some clerks scoff at or avoid helping these customers. That’s unfortunate, because there should be more consideration for the needs of this growing segment, says columnist Armand Lobato.
Do you have “diamonds” that “eat like candy”? Let’s hope your stock has “legs” but isn’t “kicked.” Columnist Armand Lobato explains some of the unofficial terms heard around the produce aisle.
Taking steps to minimizing food waste not only helps reduce shrink, but it also means fresher produce with a longer shelf life at the consumer’s home, says columnist Armand Lobato.
Overnight produce receiving isn’t for everyone, but it can solve many problems for stores with once particular issue in their layout, says columnist Armand Lobato.