E.W. Brandt & Sons, parent company for RemBrandt Masterpiece Fruit, is significantly expanding its operations with the acquisition of a 45,000-square-foot packinghouse as well as a major controlled atmosphere storage facility. Also included are an office complex, two covered shook storage areas, IT systems, machine shop, rolling stock, and 380 acres of leased orchards.

Industry data compiled by CMI Orchards note a growing trend toward bag over bulk sales with a tipping point in the near future. “Our estimates point to bags taking favor across conventional and organic apples sometime in the next 12-18 months,” said Danelle Huber, marketing specialist at CMI.

The first arrivals of Champagne Mangos from Ciruli Bros. have arrived in the United States, said Chris Ciruli, COO of Ciruli Bros. Operating out of Rio Rico, AZ, Ciruli Bros. is a third-generation grower and shipper, specializing in Champagne mangos.

Dene Iliff, a longtime produce veteran based in south Texas, died Tuesday, March 1.

“Few people make a lasting impact in your life the way that Dene did,” said Chris Ciruli, a close friend of almost 25 years. “He was one of my mentors and one of the best managers I’ve known. He had a knack for identifying good talent and developing them in their careers. I’ll always remember him as a gentleman with a kind voice and an impeccable work ethic.”

Matthews Ridgeview Farms is known for providing great quality and outstanding customer service, which is why it’s been a go-to sweet potato distributor for decades.

ORLANDO, FL — Georgia agriculture was in the spotlight at a reception held March 3, here, ahead of the opening of the Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Exposure convention.

The reception featured Georgia Grown foods and was highlighted by a one-on-one interview of former NFL great Anthony (Booger) McFarland by Sarah Walsh of Fox Sports.