Gale Ferranto, owner of Buona Foods Inc., was selected as Pennsylvania’s Small Business Person of the Year for 2026.

Duda Farm Fresh Foods announced that Amanda Brown-Estelle has joined the company as national account manager. In this key leadership role, Brown-Estelle will support Duda’s national retail accounts and help drive continued growth through strong customer partnerships.

Brown-Estelle joins Duda with a powerhouse background in retail and supply chain. She most recently spent nine years with IFCO in business development, where she worked across multiple levels of the retail sector to drive new business growth, strengthen existing partnerships and identify new channel opportunities.

Pure Flavor's Tiffany Sabelli, vice president of sales, has been recognized as one of the 2026 Outstanding Women in Produce by the Canadian Produce Marketing Association.

This national recognition highlights women who are making a meaningful and lasting impact across the fresh produce industry through leadership, innovation and a strong commitment to advancing the category.

Gennaro (Jerry) George Bifulco, 64, died at home on April 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family following a courageous two-year battle with Glioblastoma.

Mr. Bifulco was born in Staten Island, NY, where he developed a love of farming at an early age. His passion moved with him to Pittsgrove, NJ, in 1970, where he continued the family tradition as a proud third-generation farmer. Hardworking and patient, Mr. Bifulco took great pride in his work and in preserving the legacy passed down through generations.

Five Crowns Marketing announced two updates to its sales leadership team: the promotion of Daren Van Dyke to vice president of sales and marketing and the addition of David Dudley as director of merchandising and marketing.

Pat McDowell, a longtime produce industry leader and early pioneer of value-added produce, died Friday, April 17. He was 75.

Mr. McDowell's career spanned over 45 years in Southern California. He was a huge advocate for the Fresh Produce & Floral Council, and he served many years on its board before and after his term serving as chairman in 2005.