USDA restricts PACA violators in New Jersey and Texas

(File image)

The USDA has imposed sanctions on two produce businesses for failing to meet contractual obligations to the sellers of produce they purchased and failing to pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act.

These sanctions include suspending the businesses’ PACA licenses and barring the principal operators of the businesses from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without approval from USDA, according to a news release.

The following businesses and individuals are currently restricted from operating in the produce industry, the USDA said:

  • PHP Group LLC, operating out of Saddle River, N.J., for failing to pay a $37,841 award in favor of a Texas seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Pedro H. Perez was listed as a member of the business.
  • LR Imports Inc., operating out of Houston, Texas, for failing to pay a $34,560 award in favor of a California seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Martin Luna and Luis E. Ramirez were listed as the officers, directors and/or major stockholders of the business.

 

By issuing these penalties, USDA said it continues to enforce the prompt and full payment for produce while protecting the rights of sellers and buyers in the marketplace.

For more information, contact PACA, Dispute Resolution Branch, at (202) 720-2890 or PACAdispute@usda.gov.
 

 

Latest News

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.

Natural Delights names new CEO
Natural Delights names new CEO

With CEO Tim Rooney is stepping down to pursue another opportunity, Natural Delights is promoting its chief operating officer, effective April 1.

Taylor Farms Retail gives new options for its mini-chopped line
Taylor Farms Retail gives new options for its mini-chopped line

Taylor Farms Retail is adjusting its packaged salad options to better serve single consumers, company executives said at the  Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase.

Pacific Trellis Fruit touts premium stone fruit category at AWG Showcase
Pacific Trellis Fruit touts premium stone fruit category at AWG Showcase

Specialty stone fruit offerings were a focus of attention for Pacific Trellis Fruit executives at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.