California winter produce business updates

Broccoli florets are one of several new value-added items from Castroville, Calif.-based Ocean Mist Farms, says Mark Munger, marketing director.
Broccoli florets are one of several new value-added items from Castroville, Calif.-based Ocean Mist Farms, says Mark Munger, marketing director.
(Photo: Courtesy of Ocean Mist Farms)

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.

Three men standing in a field, looking at potatoes.
Gael Vazquez (left), director of grower relations for Los Angeles-based Progressive Produce LLC, discusses this season’s yields with grower partners. Plenty of holiday staples like potatoes, onions and asparagus will be available from Progressive Produce, and quality looks “solid,” says Oscar Guzman, director of marketing and sales. Photo courtesy of Progressive Produce LLC

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. 
 

 

Latest News

How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards
How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards

In this podcast episode, Advanced Agriscience's Collin Juurakko shares interesting discoveries he's made about how frost crystals form and how that lead to a potential solution for tree-fruit growers across the globe.

Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show
Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show

North Kansas City, Mo.-based Cool Creations LLC had two new products to show off at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

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.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

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.