The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) has named Paul Catania Jr., president and CEO of Catania Worldwide, as the recipient of its 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his decades-long contributions to the fresh produce industry.    Catania, a second-generation leader of the family business founded in 1929, has spent more than 50 years helping shape […]

When produce departments lack adequate staffing or effective scheduling, the negative impact is felt most during the busiest shopping periods. This not only risks losing customers but also reduces overall profits. The nature of produce departments requires constant attention, especially for items that are highly perishable and displays that must be kept fresh.   Customers […]

As sustainability expectations continue to intensify across the fresh produce supply chain, consulting firm Measure to Improve has introduced two new service offerings aimed at helping companies navigate greenhouse gas reporting and packaging compliance requirements.   The company announced the launch of its Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Solution and EPR Readiness Solution, both designed specifically […]

Berry category sales rose 6.6 percent from last year, with strawberries accounting for a 5.6 percent increase and making up 42 percent of all berry sales. This demonstrates that strawberries remain a top choice for shoppers looking for fresh fruit.   California strawberries are currently being shipped from Santa Maria, Oxnard, Watsonville and Salinas. Demand […]

Whenever I’m on the road heading to collaborate with a particular retailer, I make it a point to stop at various supermarkets along the way to check out their produce departments. I frequent several stores and have developed friendly relationships with many produce managers, stopping to chat when I can.   On one of these […]