Elite Apple Co. will be joining forces with Honeybear Brands to market its apple varieties with the retailer in mind. The Elite Apple Co. is a privately held, grower-owned production facility located in Sparta, MI, the heart of Michigan’s apple country. For more than 40 years, growers that make up The Elite Apple Co. team have been growing premium apples.

David Lundstrom, a longtime veteran of the Nogales produce deal, has announced his retirement after more than five decades in the produce industry.

Speaking with The Produce News on April 11, Lundstrom said that after much consideration, he is “finally comfortable” with the decision and looks forward to spending more time with his wife, Bobbie, and watching his grandkids grow up.

“It’s time to say goodbye,” said Lundstrom, 66. “It’s been a long 51-year run, and produce has provided beyond my expectations. But it’s time for the younger guys to take over.”

From farm-to-table. That, along with providing high-quality produce and sugar cane and a big emphasis on sustainability, is the key to the longevity of R.C. Hatton Inc. and its long and successful relationship with retailers, foodservice operators and schools over the years.

A new direction is on the horizon, as Highline Mushrooms adds sizable talent to the future of the present team. Building on years of historical excellence in the growing of organic mushrooms, new vision and energy will undoubtedly add to the leadership and growth, with a goal to ignite innovation.

The iconic “Get Crackin’” campaign that helped Wonderful Pistachios become a household name is back. America’s No. 1 nut, Wonderful Pistachios, will feature nostalgic talent alongside some of the latest trends to relaunch Get Crackin’ and celebrate the unique ways people enjoy cracking open and eating pistachios.

One of Oppy’s finest is trading in his phone line for fishing line. Senior Sales Representative Dan Wickland, who joined Oppy in 2002, “brought his unique brand of salesmanship to the organization,” said Mickey Schaefer, sales manager for Oppy’s Midwest region.

“Dan is the longest tenured employee in the history of the Chicago office and has worn many hats during his time with the company, notably his contributions to the growth of Zespri kiwi, Oceanside Pole tomatoes, and JAZZ and Envy apples in our market area,” said Schaefer.