HILLSDALE, NJ — Always a highlight on the Eastern Produce Council calendar, the 15th annual Jersey Fresh BBQ, held May 20 at Demarest Farms, here, did not disappoint, as attendees gathered on a crisp and sunny spring evening to network and hear the latest updates on Garden State crops.

As Family Dollar prepares to become a standalone company, its future leadership team is taking shape. Dollar Tree Inc. announced that Duncan MacNaughton will serve as chairman and CEO of Family Dollar following the close of the previously announced divestiture. Jason Nordin will continue to serve as president of Family Dollar.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has filed an administrative complaint against Texas Produce Co. Inc. for alleged violations of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. The company, operating from Texas, allegedly failed to make payment promptly to 12 produce sellers in the amount of $1.02 million from December 2022 through August 2023.  

Retailers and consumers alike have come to expect consistent quality, robust flavor and clean-slicing deliciousness from Oceanside Pole tomatoes. Unexpectedly, however, a surprise new item will grow and travel alongside the iconic Romas and rounds this summer.

In a bold and promising move for the future of British Columbia’s fruit industry, the Supreme Court of British Columbia approved the purchase of the remaining South Okanagan assets of BC Tree Fruits by Wildstone Capital Ltd. The BC Tree Fruits name will remain, preserving its deep-rooted brand equity and significance across western Canada. The transaction is expected to close May 30.

Floriexpo, North America’s dedicated B2B event for the floral industry, will return to the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, from June 4–6, 2025. With an expanded focus on education, retail engagement, and industry collaboration, the upcoming event aims to address current challenges while highlighting new opportunities for growth and innovation across the floral supply chain.