AUSTIN, TX — The Viva Fresh Produce Expo, held here March 26-28, was ideal for companies like Grupo Vegver, located in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz.

Vegver is a grower of Veracruz limes and chayote. The firm is also a sizable supplier of carrots and has a history of access to other fresh produce items.

Managing Director Felix López has been shipping a wide line of produce to Veracruz foodservice clients for several years.  

As the managing director of Vegver, he is prepared to expand his reach to ship to reliable new customers in North America.  

The National Watermelon Association recently elected a new slate of officers for the 2015-16 year that will serve through the conclusion of the association’s national convention in February 2016 in New Orleans. The officers will serve in various roles throughout the year to support the efforts of the association.

Beachside Produce LLC, a Guadalupe, CA-based grower-shipper of broccoli, artichokes, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, celery, mix and head lettuce, kale, cilantro and strawberries, is ushering in its Lyon artichoke season and was expecting to have promotable volumes as of the first week of April.

Production is expected to last through July with normal volumes in both Lompoc and the Santa Maria Valley region.

Everyone knows “V” is for victory, right? Not so fast…

Following up on last year’s successful run, the Vidalia Onion Committee is again making its “V is for Vidalia” campaign the centerpiece of this year’s marketing efforts, with ever-increasing focus on social media and audience interaction.

In 2014, a combination of factors caused an unprecedented spike in the lime market, sending prices well above the $100 mark for a 40-pound carton and causing a shortage of the fruit at both retail and foodservice. This year, the situation is not so sour.

As the gap between Walmart and other discount retailers continues to close, the company is reportedly urging suppliers to lower their prices, according to The Wall Street Journal. In addition to generally slow sales, the company recently announced a wage increase for employees, further slimming its margins in the competitive discount category.