FirstFruits Marketing announced the launch of another Opal apple season. Opals are a naturally non-browning apple with unique flavor and have a distinct crunchy texture making it a yellow apple with a crispy bite. This year, retailers can look forward to new campaign, including new in-store marketing, signage, bins and social media tool kit all inviting consumers to “Crave the Crunch.”

Michael Schutt has been promoted to Raley's director of produce and floral. Schutt will be responsible for maintaining the produce and floral department sales and net margin targets, as well as developing his continued leadership role of a talented merchant and quality control team.

The Peruvian Asparagus Importers Association members focus on quality, convenience and steady volumes throughout the season.

“The fresh peruvian asparagus season, always delivers,” said Priscilla Lleras-Bush, executive director for PAIA. “PAIA importer members are consistently meeting the needs of the U.S. consumer.  Consumers are looking for quality – Peru brings quality to the retailers’ shelves.

As the COVID-19 pandemic heads into its third quarter, it can be tempting to continue working in hunkered-down mode. Instead, we encourage you to get back on track with offense —  with some caveats. Your business, and your team, will benefit for it.

We know these past months have been… well, let’s just call like we see it: crazy. You’ve either been sprinting to meet retail demand to feed consumers eating most of their meals and snacks at home — or like foodservice, your business has slowed to a stroll at best.

Produce Marketing Association Vice President Nancy Tucker announced her retirement at the Fresh Summit 2020 Global Community Reception. Tucker, who has had a storied career in produce, has been a fixture of PMA’s global work since the early 1990s.  Industry veterans were on hand to celebrate her impact and wish her well during the Global Community Reception on Oct. 13.  Tucker will officially step away from her role Dec. 31, 2020.

ACME Markets Inc., a division of Albertsons Cos. Inc., was the successful bidder for 27 Kings Food Market and Balducci’s Food Lover’s Market locations.