Applewood Fresh, a premier produce brand and fourth-generation grower-packer-shipper-marketer of Michigan-grown apples, is shipping EverCrisp apples. The variety expands its availability this year as a late-season, sweet apple that packs a superior crunch.

The Kroger Co. announced that Kevin Brown and Amanda Sourry have been elected to the company's board of directors. The company also announced that Bobby Shackouls is retiring from Kroger's board after more than 21 years of service.

"We are grateful to Bobby for his more than two decades of service on the Kroger board of directors, including five years as lead independent director," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's chairman and CEO. "The board and the entire Kroger family wish Bobby, his wife Judy, and their family all the best in retirement.

December was a very strong month for apples and pears, which were up 7 percent and 12 percent in dollar sales, respectively. Double-digit organic growth in both categories, combined with strong showings by core and emerging apple varieties, drove the great results.

The application period has opened for the Class 26 of the United Fresh Produce Industry Leadership Program. Since its inception in 1995, more than 250 produce industry professionals have graduated from this exclusive program, thanks to the support of founding sponsor Corteva Agriscience.

While millions of football fans begin gearing up to watch the biggest game in football, the makers of Wholly Guacamole, America’s No. 1 selling refrigerated guacamole brand made with hand-scooped Hass avocados, are preparing for an equally busy season: helping fans prevent pre-game injuries related to their favorite Sunday football snack.

Scott Schuette, vice president of produce and floral for Fresh Thyme Market, is set to leave the company in the next week after a six-year stint of his 30-year career in the business.

“The decision was made last Monday, but this was a combination of a restructuring and reorganization decision on the part of the company and it coincided with some changes that were about due for myself,” he said. “I’m working on a two-week exit plan right now, and this will be my last week as they hand off the torch and I get them set up for success to the best of my ability.”