Page 41 - Roduce Editorials News Today

Jane Bi has joined GLOBALG.A.P. North America as its buyer relations manager. In her new role, Bi will work to increase market recognition and acceptance of GLOBALG.A.P. products and services by promoting the range of solutions among buyers in this region.

Gonzalo Gebara has taken the position of president and CEO of Walmart Canada, effective Jan. 30, 2023. Gebara joined Walmart in 2000. During his career, he has held roles across finance, strategy, eCommerce, marketing and operations, in positions of increasing responsibility. Additionally, he has worked with teams across multiple markets, including the United States, Argentina and Chile, driving critical business outcomes.

Winter Sweetz, a Texas-based grapefruit brand owned by Lone Star Citrus, launched its third annual Sweeter in Texas sweepstakes to celebrate the Texas red grapefruit season. Now through Jan. 20, Winter Sweetz is offering shoppers a chance to win one $500 gift card grand prize and a case of Texas red grapefruits valued at $35. Consumers may enter via the official sweepstakes entry form on the Winter Sweetz website.

The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas is assembling the 2023 Spring Policy Summit, a two-day event that will take place on March 14-15 at the Tubac Golf Resort and Spa in Tubac, AZ. This event, which focuses on policies and regulations that impact importation of fresh produce from Mexico, has a substantiated history of enriching the discourse between industry and the government across agencies in the U.S, Mexico and Canada.

Dole plc released its first sustainability report since the 2021 merger of Total Produce plc and Dole Food Co. Building on its historical achievements, this report sets out the organization’s refreshed sustainability framework and offers a new set of environmental, social and governance goals through 2030.

After 19 years leading the National Watermelon Association as executive director, Bob Morrissey will retire this coming March. He will be  succeeded by George Szczepanski, a 12-year veteran of the Produce Marketing Association and the newly formed International Fresh Produce Association, who currently holds the position of director of production, supply chain and environmental policy.

Now that the holiday season has started we wanted to spread some extra holiday cheer so enjoy these festive photos of your industry friends. Many thanks to all who participated, and we hope to see all your smiling faces at events in 2023. From all of us at The Produce News, we wish you a happy and healthy holiday season.

One of Stemilt’s favorite days of the year is the day each present donated by the Stemilt family finds a new home to a foster child in need. This year marks the 10th that Stemilt has participated in donating gifts to foster children in the Wenatchee Valley.

Courchesne Larose Ltd., a leader in the Canadian fresh fruit and vegetable industry, announced a significant investment in its share capital by Sagard Private Equity Canada to accelerate its expansion and remain ahead of the curve.  

Two of Hy-Vee's key executive leaders — Kevin Sherlock and Georgia Van Gundy — will take on additional responsibilities as Hy-Vee continues to evolve. Sherlock will serve as chief operating officer while Van Gundy was promoted to chief of staff.