Zuhlke sees packaging performance driving produce decisions
For decades, Kurt Zuhlke & Associates has supplied packaging solutions to the fresh produce industry, helping growers, packers and shippers protect products while meeting the changing demands of retailers and consumers.In 2026, company founder Kurt Zuhlke believes the biggest factor influencing packaging decisions isn’t sustainability or innovation — it is the economic realities facing consumers and the produce industry.
Antirrhinum 'Shiryu Kiss' wins double at HTA National Plant Show
Antirrhinum 'Shiryu Kiss' won two top honors at the Horticultural Trades Association's National Plant Show, claiming both Best in Show and the New Plant Awards Visitor Vote.The purple-flowered perennial, bred in the U.K. by Peter Moore, impressed expert judges and show attendees alike at NAEC Stoneleigh in Warwickshire.
In the Trenches: The magic of summer mushroom merchandising
Back in the 1950s, mushroom displays in the produce department consisted of only one or two rows of white mushrooms in a thick paper container. The choice for consumers in those days was one size will have to suit all, but the mushroom future changed when organizations emerged for the purpose of educating consumers and promoting mushrooms.
Freshwave expands citrus program through global sourcing strategy
As consumers continue expecting citrus on store shelves every week of the year, The Freshwave Fruit & Produce and Consalo Family Farms are expanding its global sourcing efforts to deliver a consistent supply while navigating an increasingly unpredictable production environment.For the Vineland, NJ-based company, citrus has become a critical component of its year-round business, complementing domestic produce programs and helping retail partners maintain continuity when U.S. production is limited.
CPMA 2027 Trade Show nearly sold out
After successfully hosting its largest Annual Convention and Trade Show to date last April in Toronto, the Canadian Produce Marketing Association is bringing its 2027 annual event to Vancouver, BC.Exhibit space for the CPMA 2027 Trade Show is already 80 percent sold out, with the remaining booths now available on a first-come, first-served basis. The event will take place April 13-15, 2027, at the Vancouver Convention Centre and will feature more than 700 booths representing produce businesses from around the world.
E. Armata focuses on relationships and adaptability in changing market
For generations, E. Armata Inc. has been a fixture at the Hunts Point Terminal Market, serving customers throughout the New York metropolitan area with a full line of fresh produce. In 2026, the company continues relying on the same principles that have guided it for decades: strong relationships, customer service and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
ALDI has customers shopping blind
Blind box culture has officially entered the grocery aisle. Inspired by the growing popularity of surprise unboxing trends across fashion, beauty and collectibles, ALDI is launching the “ALDI Blind Box,” a new way to turn everyday grocery shopping into something a little less predictable. For a limited time, shoppers have the chance to claim a free box filled with ALDI fan-favorite products, standout staples and fresh picks from across every aisle.
QDC Fresh brings exclusive Australian citrus program to U.S. retailers
QDC Fresh Inc. launched its exclusive Australian citrus program, featuring premium Cara Cara oranges, Navel oranges, mandarins and true Blood oranges. Through an exclusive partnership with an industry-leading Australian grower, QDC Fresh will be first to market in 2026 with Australian Cara Cara and Navel oranges into the United States. Fruit has already been harvested and is currently en route to the U.S., with the first arrival scheduled for mid-July.
Ark Foods expands organic pepper program
Ark Foods is growing its organic program after a successful trial in Florida last fall, marking a new step forward for the specialty produce company as it builds out a broader organic offering for retail and foodservice customers.Known for its focus on distinctive, high-flavor vegetables and specialty peppers, Ark Foods began testing organic production in Florida to evaluate quality, consistency and customer interest. The trial performed strongly, giving the company confidence to expand the program this summer with additional SKUs and new growing locations.
Turek Farms gearing up for summer sweet corn after wet start to year
Cayuga County, where Jason Turek grows sweet corn and other vegetables, broke records for rainfall during the first five months of the year.At mid-June, however, Turek was relieved when his farm, Turek Farms in King Ferry, received about an inch of rain. Starting in late May through mid-June, the county had been dry. Turek farms in upstate New York’s Finger Lakes region, just east of Cayuga Lake, which historically receives enough rain that fields are not irrigated.