Armand Lobato

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Good planning and helping hands from the produce department — and other store areas — are needed to prepare floral products in a tight time window ahead of the holiday, says columnist Armand Lobato.
Why carry specialty produce when they typically are not top sales items? Because they can still drive sales, columnist Armand Lobato says.
The new year brings a new opportunity to make produce departments attractive to health-conscious consumers, including those who have made a resolution to lose weight, says columnist Armand Lobato.
Columnist Armand Lobato shares book titles from his own shelf that offer inspiration and information — and not all of them are about fresh produce.
Despite what some might believe, these arrangements are still affordable — and welcomed — gifts that can make an impression, says columnist Armand Lobato.
Exploring a new produce position can be exciting, but be sure to get clarity about job details and responsibilities before accepting, says columnist Armand Lobato.
Retail produce departments are much different than those of yesteryear, but some key elements haven’t changed, says columnist Armand Lobato.
Layoffs are a grim possibility heading into 2023, meaning now is the time for workers to stand out from the rest of the staff, says columnist Armand Lobato.
Christmas will be here soon — as will the rush of customer traffic, says columnist Armand Lobato. Are you ready for it?
Produce managers who know their store and customers well can be a great source for creative merchandising ideas — if they they’re allowed to be.