Finland company launches online global fruit trade platform

A new digital solution by Finnish company Claridock is looking to become an ally to the produce industry by connecting suppliers and buyers globally through an online platform. The Helsinki-based firm welcomed 2023 with the launch of its newly developed solution, which allows constant market monitoring for companies looking to expand their businesses. The tool went […]

Report: Orchard House Foods, a supplier to top supermarkets, faces administration

Orchard House Foods, a supplier of fresh prepared fruit, juices and jellies for more than 35 years for major retailers including Marks & Spencer, Tesco and Pret-a-Manger, has entered administration according to several reports. The BBC and other news outlets noted that the Corby-based company, which was bought by private equity firm Elaghmore in 2021, […]

Unrelenting inflation in UK causes fresh food prices to spike

Fresh food prices registered a 15% rise for British shoppers – the highest annual increase for the segment since 2005 – according to a report from Reuters. The cost of living soared during 2022, with the British Retail Consortium (BRC) reporting a record overall food price inflation of 13%. Britain’s official rate of consumer price inflation hit […]

Serious Apeel: How game-changing technology is eliminating food waste at Asda

Using edible produce protection technology from U.S.-based Apeel, UK supermarket chain Asda reduced its citrus waste by 36% in select stores and avocado waste by 10% during the course of a year. The trial, which was done in 150 Asda locations, shows the tremendous potential of using the company’s “plant-based” peels to help retailers achieve […]

How to merchandise bananas for profit and ensure shopper satisfaction

Bananas have traditionally been considered a loss leader, yet effective merchandising can help stores realize profit in this key category. Bananas are consistently one of the top-selling items, according to Bil Goldfield, director of corporate communications for Dole Food Company. That’s why it’s critical they remain a focus in the department, he says. “Opportunities remain ripe […]

In South Africa, soft citrus volumes prove better late than early

Late-season soft citrus volumes continued to grow in South Africa during the 2022 season, while many early season varieties continued their downward trend. Shipping percentage to Europe and the UK was exactly the same as 2021. There were decreases in percentage sent to Middle East (15-13%) and Asia (8-6%). The South African Citrus Growers Association (CGA) said […]

In this final week of 2023, cast a critical eye on your produce operation

As the end of the year approaches, it’s a good time to take stock of your operation and do a full review to identify strengths and weaknesses and ways to improve the overall operation. An innovative produce retailer is always looking for ways to improve the operation and will undertake this analysis to provide an […]

The Road to SQF Isn’t Easy, But It’s Important

Food safety programs reflect the highest possible food safety standards are being met throughout the food supply chain, all the way to the end consumer — the ultimate goal. These meticulous and credible practices are recognized by foodservice providers, retailers, stores, and brand owners alike. In the wholesale produce industry, we rely heavily on having […]