PMG Industry Perspective
The support, confidence and leadership of farmers, shippers, packers and processors is at the core of the LGMA.
From a vast array of plumcots and apriums, to a menagerie of melons, to a brigade of roots and radishes, there is no shortage of options in the world of specialty produce, and consumers are intrigued.
United Fresh recently held the first session in its new education track featuring retail and foodservice industry leaders, and the discussion covered labor, forecasting, rising costs, packaging and more.
Check out the video for a roundup of the big topics in produce this week with editor-in-chief Tom Karst and retail editor Ashley Nickle.
Episode 52 features a conversation with Stonehill Produce CEO Keith Slattery on the company’s Market Pulse report; how getting strong information leads to better buying; and Mexican avocado supply and demand now.
As National Salad Month approaches, here are a few updates from brands around the country.
In the produce aisle, “I want credit!” is a common lament.
“If only my store manager knew…” So began a labor-related line I heard from many produce managers as I visited stores in my supervisor days — especially as spring uncoiled into summer in the produce aisle.
Episode 51 of Tip of the Iceberg Podcast features a conversation with Kristina Lorusso, business development director for Giumarra, about the company’s recent tests of autonomous trucks and aircraft to move produce.
There’s something unique about a retail produce crew. Unlike other grocery store departments, produce is different.
While it is beyond doubt that SARS-CoV2 is not a foodborne pathogen, what can we learn from the measures that were put in place to control COVID-19 that also had a positive impact on food safety?
No one likes to play catch up. In fact, once you fall behind on something, it is far more difficult to recover. And stressful.
To say retail produce training is essential is an understatement.
When customers see a familiar label, a popular growing region known for the elevated quality of fresh produce grown, they slow down, and they buy.
Our values guide us in good times and bad, and a clearly defined organizational purpose will articulate the benefits of our organizations to our employees, customers and society as a whole.
I really cut my teeth writing (what else?) retail produce bulletins. Mike Aiton, our director, was the real writing wizard and had a couple of us supervisors rotate to cover the task.
A year ago I was hopeful that the North American produce industry would get behind the meaningful incorporation of sustainability practices in its businesses to help mitigate some of the biggest risks it is facing.
There’s a lot to be said about simple momentum. Take for example, my regular workweek. Like many other produce professionals, I have my share of paperwork.
Two retail experts will give their views on online grocery trends at the in-person New England Produce Council Produce, Floral & Food Service Expo.
Customers never like selecting what they consider is leftovers, even if what’s available is pristine.
Staff, order, prep and stock the produce department so that whatever decision is reached, it’s because the offerings are so fresh, the stock level so nice, that in that moment any decision is a good decision.
It’s quite a commitment to attempt offering a clean and fresh produce department when shopping traffic heats up.
At its last meeting, the LGMA board voted unanimously to require its members to conduct preharvest testing of product grown in fields where elevated risk factors may be present.
How is it that we are recognized as the most beneficial of all the food types that exist, but consumption is waning?
So, what exactly is a normal work week for a produce manager? It depends.
It’s been a few months since the Boston Market Terminal closed for good, scattering companies to nearby warehouses, the neighboring New England Produce Center or to retirement.
Part 2 of The Packer’s Tom Karst recently interviewed Hans Sauter, chief sustainability officer and senior vice president of research and development at Fresh Del Monte.
With Fresh Del Monte operations and distribution in more than 90 countries, Hans Sauter has a global perspective on sustainability efforts.
As a result of COVID-19, there has perhaps been no greater level of awareness around federal feeding programs that target children.
At least 21 produce industry organizations in Canada and the U.S. issued a joint statement calling for “urgent government action” to address significant ongoing supply chain disruptions.