Year: 2016

“Welcome to my gardens in the desert,” booms Jeff Ciachurski to a curious carload of foodies and investors, as the barren land straddling California State Highway 111 gives way to fields of neatly planted organic vegetables. It is here, in this corner of Southeastern California, that Ciachurski, a B.C. veteran of sustainable wind and solar energy projects, is turning over a new leaf and becoming a green giant. …

To build authentic credibility and engagement with consumers, Stemilt Growers launched its “Kitchen Council” program in April 2015. Each month, Stemilt sent fresh, premium-quality fruit for three bloggers to create original content – anything from a recipe to a tablescape to tips and tricks. Content was then shared on Stemilt’s online and social media channels including The Stem blog. Since the introduction of the “Kitchen Council,” more than 40 blog posts, 30 original recipes, and 75 social media mentions from the hand-selected bloggers have reached more than one million consumers and helped garner over 75,000 page views to The Stem in 2015. …

This February, provide your shoppers with a Valentine’s Day meal solution display featuring value-added produce items like Frieda’s newly branded French Style Crêpes, paired with your fresh berry case. …

New England Produce Council, Inc. (NEPC) announces the appointment of Anthony Sattler as NEPC President and Mark Jewell as a Director on the NEPC Board.  NEPC greatly appreciates all the time and hard work that Bob McGowan (Northeast Produce Sales) has offered the Council as the New England Produce Council, Inc. President for multiple terms.  His commitment and dedication to the organization has been exceptional.  The Council anticipates Bob McGowan remaining involved as an advisor to the Executive Board.  …

Despite aggressive campaigns to stop citrus greening, the plant disease that has devastated Florida’s citrus industry has continued to spread in the Rio Grande Valley. …