United Fresh Now Accepting Applications For 22nd Produce Industry Leadership Program

The application period is now open for the 22nd class of the United Fresh Produce Industry Leadership Program. Thanks to the generous support of founding sponsor DuPont Crop Protection, United Fresh members have had the opportunity to take part in this unique experience dedicated to developing future leaders of the industry. Since it was first launched in 1995, over 250 industry members have graduated from this exclusive program.

Polymer Logistics Delivers First Wood Grain RPC Shipments Into Walmart

January 29, 2016 Polymer Logistics

Three leading produce companies, Grimmway Enterprises, Inc., Pure Hothouse Foods, Inc. and Calavo Growers, Inc., shipped the first truckloads of product in new wood grain reusable plastic containers (RPCs) from Polymer Logistics to Walmart distribution centers this month. Classic Yam is also supporting the initiative by being the first sweet potato grower to ship in wood grain containers. The first product in the new RPCs is expected to arrive at Walmart stores this week.

IFCO Introduces New Merchandising Solutions For Retailers And Producers

January 29, 2016 IFCO

In response to a growing demand from both producers and retailers for customized display options, IFCO is introducing a variety of innovative merchandising solutions which allow the customization of standard reusable plastic containers (RPCs). This approach enables IFCO customers to take advantage of the market standard packaging solution in combination with an individual look which can be changed whenever desired (such as for promotions or special seasonal looks).

Produce For Better Health Foundation Announces Non-Retail Role Model And Champion Recipients

Produce for Better Health Foundation (PBH) is pleased to announce today the 75 Fruits & Veggies—More Matters® Industry (Non-Retail) Role Models and Champions for 2015; 62 Role Models and 13 Champions. The recipients will be formally acknowledged at an awards luncheon on April 6, 2016 during PBH’s Annual Conference: The Consumer Connection in Scottsdale, Arizona, April 4-6.

Why The Southeast Could Become The Napa Valley Of Oysters

January 28, 2016 Jill Neimark, NPR

An oyster renaissance in the Southeastern U.S. is underway — from Virginia all the way down to Florida's Apalachicola Bay. The region is adopting the aquaculture that restored a decimated oyster industry in the north, and it has led to a huge boost in oyster production.