California winter produce business updates

Ocean Mist focuses on value-added 

Castroville, Calif.-based Ocean Mist Farms is making a major effort to increase its value-added line, said Mark Munger, senior director of marketing.

Until recently, the company has primarily been a commodity shipper, he said. But now Ocean Mist has added bagged Brussels sprouts, broccoli florets and cauliflower florets, cauliflower rice and a medley pack.

The company also has introduced 2-pound club packs of Brussels sprouts, broccoli florets and a medley pack as well a single-serving consumer-size pack of broccoli slaw, Munger said.
“It’s definitely going to be a major focus for growth for us, not only as we go into the winter season, but for next spring as well,” he said.

Munger himself, most recently with 4Earth Farms in Los Angeles, is a new addition to Ocean Mist. He joined the company in October.

Progressive has busy year

This year has been a busy one for Los Angeles-based Progressive Produce LLC, said Oscar Guzman, director of marketing and sales.

The company launched its internal magazine Progressive Quarterly — or the PQ — which celebrates the people of Progressive Produce.

“We have fun stories and announcements with resources from HR and food safety,” he said. “It’s a great read and keeps the company connected.”

The company also unveiled its new website, which also is focused on the firm’s people.
And this fall, Progressive will introduce its new mini sweet potato line called Mim’s.
The 1.5-pound medley pack is perfect for the holidays, and it’s great for trying new varieties, Guzman said.

The pack includes red, orange, white, purple, murasaki and Ben Yagi sweet potatoes.