Oak Grove, VA-based Parker Farms prides itself on being a grower-centric business.

“We are always focused on the success of our growers,” Sean McFadden, business development for Parker Farms, told The Produce News. “As a result, we have been able to partner with over 16 growers on the East Coast and the Midwest. Our growers understand the importance and necessity of being a part of a larger group in order to meet the needs of today’s retail buyers.”

The Giumarra Cos. expanded its domestic citrus program with the addition of a new influx of California-grown mandarins in October.

The last time the New England Produce Floral & Food Service Expo was held the NEPC was celebrating its 20th anniversary and things were looking great for the produce industry. Of course, that was back in 2019, before the pandemic resulted in the cancellation of the 2020 show.

The NEPC will back with a vengeance in 2021, welcoming people to its 21st birthday, Sept. 29-30 at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston, providing a great opportunity for show exhibitors and attendees to share the industry’s latest products and services.

“Demand exceeds availability,” Haun Packing Vice President and General/Sales Manager Herb Haun said about the 2021 onion crop, adding that his Weiser, ID-based operation, like the rest of the Treasure Valley, is looking at reduced yields.

Calavo Growers Inc., a global leader in the avocado and value-added fresh food industries, announced that Mariela Matute has been appointed chief financial officer, effective Oct. 11.

The Fibre Box Association announced the death of Roger W. Stone, who passed away peacefully at home in Lake Forest, IL, on Sept. 12. He will be remembered for his love of family, lifelong passion for business, kind and generous spirit, quick wit, and unassuming manner.