The Foundation for Fresh Produce and the International Fresh Produce Association announced the newest cohort of companies selected to participate in the 2025 Fresh Field Catalyst Accelerator, a flagship program designed to connect promising technology innovators with leaders from the fresh produce and floral industries.

Longtime Driscoll’s board member Neil P. DeFeo has retired after 27 years of distinguished service. In his place, the company welcomed Berry Marttin, a globally respected agricultural finance leader, to its board of directors.

Few things are as emblematic of summer as a big juicy watermelon on a hot day. As the watermelon industry prepares for its high season, the National Watermelon Promotion Board is set to launch a bevy of promotions to make sure America’s favorite summer fruit is top of mind with consumers.

Jack Hyman, a beloved industry leader and pioneer in the potato sector, died Sunday, May 4 at the age of 91, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy spanning more than six decades.

Exp. Group supplies a full line of mainstream fresh produce items — such as potatoes, onions, tomatoes, bananas and watermelons — but Anthony Serafino, president of the North Bergen, NJ-based company, said the foundation is an A-to-Z offering of specialties.

“We started our organization on tropicals, and it’s something that is principled in our business,” Serafino said. “When we think of specialties, we think of tropical merchandise.”

Warmer days are on the horizon, and shoppers are looking for fresh flavors that feel like an escape. Melissa’s Produce is helping retailers deliver just that with its refreshed Taste of Vacation tropical program.