Louis Hymel, director of purchasing and marketing for Spice World Inc., headquartered in Orlando, FL, told The Produce News that the company is seeing a steady increase in organic demand over the past two years.

“Consumers are focusing on eating healthier,” said Hymel. “Spice World has produced and handled organic garlic for more than a decade.”

MILLEN, GA — As Southern Exposure 2015 is expecting another record-breaking event, the Southeast Produce Council is also gearing up to welcome newly appointed board of directors President Mark Daniels. After seven years with Military Produce Group, Daniels in early January joined Global Organic Specialty Source Inc. in Sarasota, FL, as director of sales and procurement, bringing more than 30 years of experience in produce to his presidency.

Meijer is preparing to expand into Wisconsin with four stores that will open in the greater Milwaukee area this summer. The retailer has plans to open two to three new Wisconsin stores in each of the next four years.

At the 87th annual Oscars, Ambrosia apples will step up as a first-time featured item in the official gift bags that non-winners in the major categories receive. Ambrosia apples stand out as the only fresh produce item to be included in this year’s gift bag and will join more than $80,000 worth of merchandise as part of the “Everybody Wins at the Oscars” nominee gift baskets.

The Produce Marketing Association Foundation for Industry Talent has announced the fourth annual Tip Murphy Scholarship for Leadership Excellence recipients for 2014. Steven Bindas of Chiquita Brands and Casey Kio of AMC Direct were selected by the PMA Foundation Tip Murphy Selection Committee. The scholarship is part of the PMA Foundation’s initiative to establish a workforce with the diverse skills necessary to meet the complex demands of business.

Market Fresh Produce recently announced the addition of Janelle Haik to the corporate staff.