The trade associations that support Florida’s tomato growers, packers and shippers have hired Robert Guenther to be their next leader. These associations include the Florida Tomato Exchange, the Florida Tomato Growers Exchange and the Florida Tomato Committee. 

With summer in full swing, it's prime time for fresh produce to shine. Tops Friendly Markets said it relies on partnerships with local growers to load its produce shelves with the freshest items available throughout the season. The retailer has cultivated partnerships with over 500 locally owned and operated family farms.

This year the “Paris 2024 Food Vision” for the Olympics and Paralympics in Paris cut the amount of animal products provided at the events by half of that in 2021. At least 60 percent of the meals offered for sale to spectators will be vegetarian, according to the Food Vision, and 33 percent of athletes' meals will be plant-based, including more than 600 tons of fresh produce.

Due to extremely low estimated tree fruit volumes, weather effects, and difficult market and financial conditions, BC Tree Fruits Cooperative determined it will not be able to effectively operate the business moving forward. On Aug. 6, the Canadian Imperial Bank of Canada issued a demand for repayment, and in order to downsize or liquidate the cooperative BCTFC filed for creditor protection Aug. 12.

Though the avocado market has experienced numerous events that have led to some unsettled times over the first seven months of the year, Peter Shore, vice president of production management for Calavo Growers Inc., Santa Paula, CA, is anticipating a steady marketing situation for the remainder of 2024. However, he did note that change is constant and outside factors could alter those expectations.

Over the last six decades, the American Floral Endowment  has invested more than $20 million into the industry through internships, scholarships, education and research to help support the next generation of floriculture leaders.