For the second year in a row the International Fresh Produce Association played host to retailers and their supply chain partners at the Retail Conference. Attendees enjoyed a picture perfect day on Chicago’s Willow Crest golf course, mixed it up at the evening reception, and spent Thursday, June 8 discussing educational sessions on a range of industry topics concerning consumer trends, supply chain challenges, food as medicine and the foundations of forging strong professional partnerships.

Loblaw Cos. Ltd. is celebrating its inaugural Food Waste Awareness Week by reaching a major milestone in its food waste reduction efforts: as of the end of 2022, 100 percent of eligible Loblaw stores and distribution centres are actively participating in a food recovery program. 

This means more than 1,700 locations — including Loblaws, Zehrs, No Frills, Real Canadian Superstore and Shoppers Drug Mart — are now paired directly with a local food bank or food recovery agency, helping to put good food to use before it becomes waste..

As the top producer of blueberries in the world, Naturipe Farms grows, packs and sells blueberries 52 weeks a year, so the category is a key component to its full berry portfolio.

“The blueberries coming from New Jersey are a big part of our year-round availability,” said Brian Bocock, vice president of product management for Naturipe Farms. Bocock has been involved in the production and management of blueberries for more than 45 years.

With Washington cherries on the way, Stemilt is expecting much greater volume this year. The grower expects a steady supply of its Washington cherries will make opportunity for promotion during peak volumes in July. Mike Taylor, Stemilt vice president of sales and marketing, said the crop will be 10 days later than last year, but if retailers hang on they’ll see great success this season.

Representatives from Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Utah and Montana have determined that the 2023 crop has great potential. Dan Davis, director of business development, said, “Volume and quality looks great right now, fruit seems to be evenly spaced through the tree and setting up for a nice fruit size year.”

After an initially cool spring, the last few weeks have seen consistent stretches of 80 degree days –– optimal weather for sugar development in cherries.

Exhibitor booth registration is now open for Organic Grower Summit 2023 Presented by Western Growers and OPN, slated for Nov. 29-30 in Monterey, CA. Organic supply chain partners and service providers are encouraged to sign up for a booth at OGS 2023, which will feature two days of information, education and networking opportunities with organic growers.