Despite myriad COVID-19 -related challenges, Los Angeles area grocery stores have fared well from a sales perspective since the pandemic broke out.

The produce business seems to be gradually rebounding in Los Angeles as stores and restaurants start to reopen after more than two months of shutdowns triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on produce sales is playing out at terminal markets across the country, including the Los Angeles Wholesale Produce Market.

Los Angeles-based Vision Produce Co. has promoted Dan Lawton to president and managing partner. 

Foodservice produce sales are going strong in Southern California, suppliers say.

Business on the Los Angeles Wholesale Produce Market seemed to be off to a slow start this summer, while the supermarket industry continues to evolve and organic, specialty and foodservice categories thrive.

Even with keen and well-established competition from conventional supermarkets, the Southern California retail market may see future inroads toward more “fresh” oriented chains, Dick Spezzano believes.

Charlie’s Produce, Seattle, has acquired Better Life Organics, Los Angeles.

The Allen Lund Co., La Canada Flintridge, Calif.; has promoted John Ryan to manager of its Boston office and Joe Brindle as manager of the Los Angeles office.