Month: March 2014

On February 20-21, 2014, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) hosted their annual Agriculture Outlook Forum: “The Changing Face of Agriculture”, where general session topics focused on the diversity and future of agriculture, as well as women in the produce industry. The National Mango Board’s (NMB) Jean Sapp, who was recently appointed to the board as domestic mango producer, was honored to be invited by USDA officials to attend the event and represent the board.  …

The Kennedy Family, owners of Kennedy Groves and United Indian River Packers in Vero Beach, have announced that they will soon be selling their citrus holdings in order to concentrate on the family's other businesses. The Florida-based companies have been farming, packing and marketing Indian River Citrus for over 100 years. …

Chiquita Brands International, Inc. and Fyffes plc today announced that the Boards of Directors of both companies have unanimously approved a definitive agreement under which Chiquita will combine with Fyffes, in a stock-for-stock transaction that is expected to result in Chiquita shareholders owning approximately 50.7% of ChiquitaFyffes, and Fyffes shareholders owning approximately 49.3% of ChiquitaFyffes, on a fully diluted basis. …

Leading representatives from the global blueberry business will come together to discuss market demand, production potential, export opportunities and varietal research at the International Blueberry Organization’s (IBO) fourth annual summit next week. …

Judy Lundberg-Wafer, co-founder and owner of Babé Farms, Inc., is stepping aside as its president. She has "passed the torch" to her son Jeff Lundberg who will now serve as president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Babé Farms, Inc. …