Packer Insight — Vaccines for farmworkers, New York expos and more

Clockwise from top left: Amy Sowder, Ashley Nickle, Tom Karst
Clockwise from top left: Amy Sowder, Ashley Nickle, Tom Karst
(The Packer)

The Packer's editor-in-chief Tom Karst, Northeast editor Amy Sowder and retail editor Ashley Nickle discuss the news of the week. For more details on all topics, check out these articles.

Washington growers prioritize vaccinations for all farmworkers — Fruit and vegetable growers in Washington state are urging the state to prioritize vaccinations for all farmworkers. 

New York apple promotions barrel forward in digital, retail — There has been no pause in promoting New York apples since the COVID-19 pandemic stalled normal life in the state and its eponymous city’s usual frenetic business activity.

Also in the news this week:

Blueberry groups spar over effects of imports during ITC hearing — The ITC heard hours of testimony on whether imported blueberries harm the livelihoods of domestic growers, with dozens of stakeholders on either side sparring over what affects prices in the U.S. blueberry market.

Organic produce industry hopeful about new administration — Organic produce trade organizations seem optimistic about the incoming administration of President-elect Joe Biden and his appointment of Tom Vilsack as secretary of agriculture.

‘Excellent’ quality ahead for California's citrus crops — Although USDA's NASS estimated that California’s navel orange crop will be about 42 million 80-pound boxes this season, some grower-shippers estimate that number might be a bit on the heavy side.

 

Latest News

Tops Friendly Markets acquires 5 stores from franchisee
Tops Friendly Markets acquires 5 stores from franchisee

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
California Strawberry Commission hosts legislative event celebrating National Strawberry Month

The California Strawberry Commission convened its annual legislative reception, fostering dialogue between growers and legislators.

Sunsweet Growers names new CEO
Sunsweet Growers names new CEO

Brad Schuler, a 25-year veteran of the global brand, to helm the global company and see the introduction of enterprise software with AI capabilities, new production assets and more.

Schnucks Markets recognized for workplace diversity
Schnucks Markets recognized for workplace diversity

Schnucks Markets named one of "America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2024" by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights.