Handlers for Caribbean Fruit Connection Corp. operate from a Primus Lab-certified facility. This gives the Medley, FL-based CFC the flexibility to focus on building its supply chain and expanding its customer base.

“In 2013 we returned to our old model of receiving and distributing product with a third party doing our handling,” explained Brenda Leighton, vice president of CFC. “Forming a strategic arrangement with Gourmet Logistics, who was our immediate neighbor, provided a seamless change.”

The total California strawberry acreage reported for 2015 is 37,438, which represents about a 3 percent decrease from last year, but that may not result in less volume.

Newer varieties tend to yield better than older varieties, and weather factors can easily affect volume by much more than 5 percent. Because of the mild winter and relatively dry spring, California growing conditions have been very good and no one will be surprised if total volume approaches or tops last year’s number of about 192 million trays.

Shorter sweet onion supplies out of Mexico and Texas and consistency issues in both deals have the Vidalia onion deal set up for a promising season that could begin for some growers as early as the second week of April.

WASHINGTON — Congress must reinstate “trade equilibrium” by enacting Trade Promotion Authority to quickly pass new trade agreements, so U.S. fruit and vegetable companies can break down the growing number of non-tariff trade barriers, Robert Guenther, United Fresh Produce Association’s senior vice president for public policy, testified March 18 on Capitol Hill.

With shipments to the United States tripling in recent years, U.S. trade policies need to be put exports on an even keel, Guenther told members of a House Agriculture Committee.

Emily K. Kohlhas has joined John Vena Inc. as the company’s first sales and marketing coordinator. Kohlhas is a transplant from Philadelphia’s dynamic sustainable food movement and brings more than five years of experience in customer service and communications to the firm.

The Kroger Co. named Joe Grieshaber president of its Columbus division, replacing Bruce Macaulay, who is retiring after 42 years with the company. Grieshaber's successor will be named at a later date.

"Joe is an accomplished leader with a diverse background and expertise in our fresh departments," Mike Ellis, Kroger's president and chief operating officer, said in a press release. "His strong values and engagement with our associates will ensure continued growth and success in our Columbus division. We are looking forward to Joe's continued leadership."