Tom Burfield

Latest Stories
2026 Packer 25 honoree Monique Mueller helped Bee Sweet Citrus establish a strong digital footprint that continues to serve as a valuable tool for the company.
Packer 25 honorees Gordon Robertson, Blake Branen and Erik Brown discuss finding inspiration for innovation and persuading others to get on board with change.
Leading potato packers across North Dakota’s Red River Valley are leveraging optical sorters, robotic palletizers, and upgraded climate-controlled storage to maintain high product standards, offset industry consolidation and capitalize on growing consumer demand for yellow varieties.
Two 2026 Packer 25 honorees share how innovative technology, processes and materials aim to cut waste.
Meet Tony Mitchell, executive vice president of strategic partnerships, FreshEdge Prepared Solutions and one of the 2026 Packer 25’s honorees.
Meet Monique Mueller, director of communications, Bee Sweet Citrus, and one of the 2026 Packer 25 honorees.
Meet Gordon Robertson, general manager, North America, Fresh Inset Solutions, and one of the 2026 Packer 25 honorees.
Meet Erik Brown, vice president, business development, produce division, JOH and one of the 2026 Packer 25 honorees.
Meet Blake Branen, director of sales and marketing for J.C. Watson Packing Co., and one of the 2026 Packer 25 honorees.
Through targeted promotions, specialty varieties and creative cross-merchandising, grower-shippers and retailers are expanding sweetpotato consumption far beyond the holiday season.