Berry grower-shipper California Giant expects to increase its summer ’19 Pacific Northwest blueberry volumes by 45%.

You may be asking what are the key factors in the decision to devote valuable shelf and floor space in a produce department? What does a professional merchandiser (produce tradesman) use in his decisions when positioning each of the many items now found in the average grocery store? What role does price play? What role do profits play? What role does advertised items play? Does the location influence shopping patterns?

As of late March, the weather has been favorable with no major freeze issues and sufficient chill and dormancy needed for a quality pear crop, says Kevin Moffitt, president and CEO of the Milwaukie, Oregon-based Pear Bureau Northwest.

As retailers anticipate the peak of the apple seasons, they should remember that when promoted properly, these popular commodities can drive seasonal sales.

Memorial Day weekend is one of the strongest periods of the year for avocado consumption, ranking among the top four seasonal sales events, and the California Avocado Commission has a full set of merchandising initiatives on tap for retailers this year.

Tomato prices could rise substantially following a U.S. government trade policy change.

The 2019 cherry crop in California will start later than it did in 2018 but it has the potential to break volume records. The late start means retailers must plan for California cherry promotions in late May and throughout June, according to an analysis from Stemilt Growers.

Stemilt Growers has been recognized as a Produce for Better Health Foundation Role Model for the 11^th straight year.

California-based berry grower-shipper California Giant is field-testing prototype cardboard clamshell containers for fresh strawberries.

Chiquita Brands will be featured on Season Two of the Science Channel show “Tomorrow’s World Today.”