Packer Insight — Infrastructure bill, buy local campaigns, retail strategy

The Packer's editor-in-chief Tom Karst, Northeast editor Amy Sowder and retail editor Ashley Nickle discuss some of the big topics of the week, from the new infrastructure bill to buy local campaigns to retail strategy.

For more coverage, check out the following articles.

52% of New Spending in Senate Infrastructure Bill Funds Transportation, Passage Expected to Hit Major Roadblock in the House — The Senate passed a $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill Tuesday, and transportation could receive more than half the new funding slated in the bill. However, the House leadership's desire to pass the infrastructure bill in tandem with a human rights bill could cause the infrastructure plan to hit a major roadblock in the coming weeks. 

Maryland marketers push ‘buy local’ on social — The Maryland Department of Agriculture recognizes the power of social media in its 2021 promotional efforts, as more and more people are glued to their phones. 

Creating a retail culture that values great suppliers — "I distinctly recall that early on in my first year as a produce manager – I was 19 years old at the time – it was abundantly clear to me that where I bought fresh produce from made a difference in our sales and in the customer experience," Joe Watson writes in his latest column for PMG.

Industry misses USDA Farmers to Families Food Box Program — From May 15, 2020, to April 30 this year, USDA contractors delivered 173.7 million boxes of fresh produce, milk, dairy and cooked meats to needy Americans across the country. The program was phased out at the end of May by the Biden administration.

 

Latest News

Tops Friendly Markets acquires 5 stores from franchisee
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The Williamsville, N.Y.-based grocer has acquired five store locations that had been owned and operated by Supermarket Management, Inc., one of the company’s longstanding franchise partners.

Seen and heard at CPMA 2024 — Part 3
Seen and heard at CPMA 2024 — Part 3

Exhibitors at the Canadian Produce Marketing Association Conference and Trade Show talked about upcoming seasons, renewed connections and new packaging during the event held April 23-25.

Idaho Potato Commission adds Northeast/Midwest retail promotion director
Idaho Potato Commission adds Northeast/Midwest retail promotion director

Matt Zapczynski brings experience as a produce buyer for a wholesale grocery distributor.

California Strawberry Commission hosts legislative event celebrating National Strawberry Month
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The California Strawberry Commission convened its annual legislative reception, fostering dialogue between growers and legislators.

Sunsweet Growers names new CEO
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Schnucks Markets recognized for workplace diversity
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Schnucks Markets named one of "America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2024" by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights.