According to several sources, the merger discussions between the United Fresh Produce Association and the Produce Marketing Association continue with no announced timeline for the conclusion of those discussions.

During the United convention show in early May, several very well-placed individuals who were privy to the information told The Produce News that a merger vote was scheduled by both associations for this week (June 4). However, it has been learned that the vote was postponed at least one month, though talks continue.

The Oppenheimer Group's volume of avocados has increased significantly in the last few years, and the produce marketer and distributer has launched an avocado-ripening service to better accommodate eastern U.S. and eastern Canadian customers. This service complements the ripening protocols Oppenheimer implemented for its western customers in 2010.

Although it is too early to tell what actual volumes of stone fruit from the Pacific Northwest will reach produce department shelves this season, prospects appear to be bright. "We're expecting a well-sized crop thanks to the mild growing weather," said James Michael, promotions director for the Washington State Fruit Commission. "Longer days with more hours in the growing window equal bigger, sweeter fruit."

Peppadew, a pepper-like fruit that is native to South Africa, will be marketed under the “Jersey Fresh” promotional program for the first time this year, with production of the Gold variety of the fruit currently underway in the Garden State.

Additionally, a new facility called Peppadew Fresh Farms & Vineyard will serve as a hub of events and educational activities that revolve around Peppadew.

Consumers will have a chance to vie for a limited number of tricked out, customized, fixed-gear bicycles offered by Columbia Marketing International in its special Facebook contest celebrating the 2012 cherry season. “We’re pretty excited to give something back to the consumer,” Vice President of Marketing Bob Mast told The Produce News May 17.

Oxnard, CA-based Deardorff Family Farms hired LUKE PATRUNO to its team on March 13.

In his new position at Deardorff Family Farms, Mr. Patruno is leading a new organic business unit that focuses on sourcing, packing and distributing organic produce from the company’s headquarters in Oxnard, according to a company press release.