Jayne Alyce Bozzuto, former vice president and director of Cheshire, CT-based Bozzuto’s Inc., died Saturday, Aug. 14 at her home in North Palm Beach, FL. She was 67.

As U.S. avocado consumption increases without an accompanying increase in supply from California growers, the California Avocado Commission continues to focus on its “Tier 1 approach,” which involves targeting retailers, foodservice operators and consumers who are willing to pay a premium for its product.

Peirone Produce Co. has built its success through its relationships with regional grocers and growers in the Pacific Northwest, and as such it is demonstrating its commitment to supporting those partners through its Taste Local program.

The program caught the attention of Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington’s 5th Congressional District, who visited Peirone Produce Co. recently through a mutual connection, Bonnie Quinn of QUINN Advertising, which has developed marketing materials for Peirone Produce Co. and the Taste Local initiative.

The Southeast Produce Council is proud to announce that it will honor two outstanding gentlemen with one of its highest honors, the SEPC Lifetime Membership Award.

This distinguished award will be presented to Steve Pinkston and Frank Swanson at Southern Innovations in Savannah, GA, during the Chairman's Dinner Dance on Friday, Sept. 10.

Nicole Wegman, senior vice president of Wegmans Brand, has been promoted to the new role of president of Wegmans Brand.

Throughout the company's 105 years, its Wegmans Brand has played an increasingly important function of differentiating the company from other food retailers. "Innovation leading to unique items with great taste that can only be found at Wegmans has helped make our stores a destination for families and food enthusiasts," the company said in a statement.

Fusion, a business-to-business integrated marketing agency focused on fresh produce and grocery in the retail environment, was named a top 10 retail marketing service company by Retail Tech Insights magazine. The award honors companies at the forefront of providing state-of-the-art retail marketing services that impact their respective industries. Fusion was the only fresh produce-focused agency awarded this top recognition.