When I first got involved with Women’s Fresh Perspectives, I saw it as something special but contained — an annual moment to step back from the day-to-day grind of produce and invest in ourselves as leaders. In our industry, that’s rare. Produce is fast. It’s perishable. It’s margin-driven. It’s operationally complex.

Sysco and Jetro Restaurant Depot have entered into a definitive agreement under which Sysco will acquire Jetro Restaurant Depot in a transformative transaction that allows Sysco to enter the high-margin, growing and resilient Cash & Carry channel. Under the terms of the agreement, the total value of the deal is approximately $29.1 billion.

A troubling labor trend emerged in 2025: women are leaving the workforce at an accelerating rate.

To celebrate Earth Month, Natural Grocers is once again teaming up with Rodale Institute for its annual Ladybug Love campaign. Rooted in the company's longstanding commitment to organic integrity, regenerative agriculture and environmental stewardship, the campaign encourages communities to protect beneficial insects, while supporting regenerative organic agriculture.

I recently attended a hunting, fishing and outdoor show at a convention center with my colleague, Bob. The venue was filled with hundreds of attendees exploring booths featuring camping gear, hunting attire, fishing equipment, offroad vehicles and other outdoor necessities.

Bob sought a belt to complement his fishing outfit. We visited several booths and conversed with sales representatives. While he identified multiple belts that met his needs he hesitated to make a purchase. Each time, he informed the salesperson, “I’ll think about it.”

When people hear about the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference they often assume it is a career development event for women. Yes, it is that, but reducing it to an individual leadership conference misses the bigger truth: this gathering is about strengthening the entire produce and floral industry.