Willie Itule Produce Inc. announced Gabe Flores as chief people officer and executive director. With over 37 years of leadership experience and deep roots in the grocery retail industry, Flores’ background in fresh produce operations, team development and cultivating people-first cultures adds expertise well-suited to Willie Itule Produce’s business values and growth trajectory.

NatureSweet unveiled refreshed and even more irresistible Glorys. These vibrant cherry tomatoes are now packed with even more sweetness and flavor, delivering an elevated taste experience to consumers everywhere.

With Northwest cherry volume expected to hit one of its highest levels in the past decade, FirstFruits Farms is entering the 2025 season with confidence and strategic focus. From expanded growing regions to vibrant consumer-facing campaigns, the company is set to help retailers maximize the high-value cherry category during peak summer weeks.

Target has made a number of changes across its executive leadership team and established a multi-year Enterprise Acceleration Office to position the company to deliver faster progress on its roadmap for growth. Michael Fiddelke, chief operating officer, will oversee this effort to improve how functions work together to advance key priorities, ranging from simplifying cross-company processes to using technology and data in new ways to power the team.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture imposed sanctions on four produce businesses for failing to meet contractual obligations to the sellers of produce they purchased and failing to pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. These sanctions include suspending the businesses’ PACA licenses and barring the principal operators of the businesses from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without USDA approval.

The following businesses and individuals are currently restricted from operating in the produce industry:

This year, FirstFruits Farms expanded the Opal Apples Youth Make a Difference initiative, celebrating youth leadership through community grants and a new partnership with The Junior Basketball League. Together, these efforts reflect Opal Apples’ commitment to empowering the next generation to create healthier, stronger communities.