The International Fresh Produce Association's Retail Conference delivered a day of compelling insights, real-world strategy and hands-on collaboration — anchored by renowned retail expert and Retail Rules! author Kevin Coupe, who served as emcee. Alongside IFPA’s Joe Watson, Coupe helped set the tone with a deep dive into the state of retail, highlighting shifts in consumer behavior, supply chain dynamics and the broader implications for the fresh produce sector.

SpartanNash raised $265,000 for Special Olympics programs across nine states through its annual in-store fundraiser. The funds, donated by store guests, associates and the SpartanNash Foundation, will help provide year-round support for thousands of athletes, empowering them to compete, train and thrive in inclusive sports environments.

Sun World formed a strategic partnership with Clarifresh, a leading AI-powered quality-management software for fresh food. Through this collaboration, Sun World can offer new tools to its network of growers and packer-shippers, starting in Egypt and Italy, which will enable them to optimize quality control processes and drive greater consistency across the supply chain.

Flashfood has named Jordan Schenck its new CEO. Schenck has served as Flashfood’s president and chief operating officer since October 2024. She assumes the role immediately and succeeds Nicholas Bertram, who will remain on the board.

Sunkist is turning up the flavor this summer, spotlighting the bold, tangy refreshment of California-grown grapefruit and introducing a new way to enjoy it — the three- and five-pound grapefruit combo bags, now shipping nationwide. 

Carlson AirFlo launched its latest product, the Procona Sleek Island. This innovation of its standard Sleek Island display allows retailers to add their own Procona Buckets—straight from shipment—into the display frame, streamlining workflow, reducing setup time and eliminating unnecessary waste while creating an instant, eye-catching presentation.