Author Archive
The Port of Oakland welcomed 2025 on a positive note, experiencing growth in both import and export volumes. In January 2025, loaded container volume reached 146,187 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), marking an 8.5% increase from January 2024, which saw 144,405 TEUs.
“Strong import growth indicates the resilience of Northern California’s economy and reflects the confidence cargo owners have in our port,” stated Bryan Brandes, the Maritime Director of the Port of Oakland. “Export volumes remain steady, showcasing the ongoing global demand for U.S. agricultural and manufactured goods. This growth is a result of the dedicated efforts and collaboration among our labor force, terminal operators, and supply chain partners. We value their commitment and will continue to work together to enhance efficiency and expand capacity to better serve our customers.”
Loaded imports experienced a 13% increase, with 81,453 TEUs processed in January 2025, compared to 72,081 TEUs in January 2024. In contrast, loaded exports saw more modest growth at 3.4%, totaling 64,735 TEUs in January 2025, up from 62,596 TEUs the previous year.
Additionally, empty imports dropped significantly by 26.2%, with 12,625 TEUs departing the Port in January 2025 compared to 17,117 TEUs in January 2024. Conversely, empty exports rose by 19.8%, with the Port handling 34,363 TEUs this January, compared to 28,694 TEUs in January 2024.
California Giant Berry Farms is gearing up for an auspicious Pacific Northwest blueberry season, with the company expecting increased volumes of both conventional and organic blueberries from the region. The firm plans to initiate harvests across Oregon, British Columbia, and Eastern Washington, aiming to maintain a steady supply through early September and throughout the summer.
Tim Youmans, Vice President of Sales, noted that the current season has shown promising volume projections from northern growing areas. To support quality standards, California Giant will ship directly from its growers and utilize its Santa Maria facility’s Unitec sorting line, which sorts berries based on various quality metrics.
“We’re very pleased with the current blueberry season and the anticipated strong volumes from our Northern growing regions,” said Youmans. “Our focus remains on providing a year-round supply of the highest quality blueberries. The upcoming harvests will allow us to maintain excellent availability for our retail and foodservice partners, and ultimately, for consumers.”
In a release, the company also highlighted the growth of jumbo blueberries within the market, driven by changing consumer preferences. Nielsen data indicated double-digit increases in both sales and volume, with jumbo berries gaining a larger share of the blueberry market.
Over the past two decades, per-capita consumption of fresh avocados in the United States has increased by approximately 260%, reflecting a broader interest in foods perceived as healthy and versatile. This trend is influenced by changing dietary habits, increased interest in plant-based nutrition, and the popularity of dishes such as avocado toast.
In response to this demand, the Hass Avocado Board (HAB) partnered with Food & Culinary Professionals (FCP), a dietetic practice group within the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, to develop recipes exploring new avocado culinary uses. The collaboration is aimed at demonstrating the fruit’s adaptability across different types of meals and to promote awareness of its nutritional profile.
The project coincides with broader concerns around dietary habits in the U.S. A recent survey of over 1,000 adults indicated that while 93% of respondents understand the importance of good nutrition, only half consistently maintain healthy eating practices most days of the week. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025, roughly 90% of Americans do not meet the recommended vegetable intake, and 80% fall short on fruit consumption.
Fresh avocados are recognized as a nutrient-dense food, offering dietary fiber and unsaturated fats. These nutrients are associated with various health benefits, including heart health and digestive support. Avocados also provide vitamins and minerals such as potassium, folate, and vitamin E.
“Avocados have long been a staple in many cuisines, but there is potential for continued exploration of new uses and combinations,” said Amanda Izquierdo, MPH, RD, LDN, PR & Advertising Manager at HAB. The initiative focused on expanding perceptions of avocado use beyond common applications like guacamole or toast.
Among the recipes developed through this effort are:
- Javacado Frozen Mocha: A drink combining espresso and avocado, designed to deliver creaminess without added sugars.
- Key Lime Pie Avocado Frozen Yogurt Bark: A dessert-style snack using avocado, yogurt, lime juice, and honey.
- Avocado Gnocchi with Avocado Cilantro Lime Sauce: A variation on gnocchi using mashed avocado in place of potatoes.
- Street Corn-Style Soup: A one-pot dish combining avocado, corn, beans, and lime.
- Miso-Marinated Salad with Whipped Avocado Dressing: A grain-based salad featuring a citrus-accented avocado dressing.
- HAB continues to invest in research and education aimed at understanding avocados’ role in nutrition and encouraging their consumption for a balanced diet. The board’s work targets both consumers and health professionals to close the gap between nutritional knowledge and everyday eating behaviors.
The Association of Hass Avocado Producers and Exporters of Peru (ProHass) has revised its projections for the remainder of the 2025 season.
The estimated export volume is 655,000 tons, representing a 20 percent reduction compared to the March projection. Despite this, the total volume is expected to increase by 30 percent compared to the 2024 season, according to a press release.
The association indicated that, despite the trend toward lower volumes compared to previous reports, the sector maintains favorable prospects for its main international destinations.
For example, despite the increase in shipping rates and the application of a 10 percent tariff in the North American market, exports to the United States are projected to grow by 75 percent compared to the previous year, representing an 18 percent share of the total exported volume.
Europe, for its part, has consolidated its position as the top destination market, with a projected growth of 24 percent compared to the previous year. It is worth noting that Peru is the leader in this market, with a 42 percent share. Meanwhile, other strategic markets such as Chile, China, and Japan continue to strengthen their position as key destinations for Peruvian Hass avocados.
ProHass noted that this positive performance occurs in a challenging context, marked by rising logistics costs and the downward revision of initial estimates, but despite these factors, the sector maintains a solid foundation, supported by operational efficiency, market diversification, and compliance with high quality standards.
“These figures confirm that, even in an adverse environment, the joint effort between producers, exporters, and authorities allows the pace of growth to be maintained,” said José Antonio Castro, president of the association.
ProHass reported that the sector will continue monitoring the performance of international markets to ensure the sustainability and competitiveness of Peruvian exports.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Tomato shipments are slowly increasing on the East Coast as smaller regional harvests begin; overall prices are slightly higher due to the impact of past poor weather, according to a press release by Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA. The company is currently shipping Markon First Crop (MFC) Tomatoes.
Rounds
- East Coast volume is low in Tennessee and Virginia, but starting to climb; local summer harvests will help supplement orders in mid-July
- Western North Carolina is shipping sufficient quantities of vine-ripe supplies
- California’s San Joaquin Valley is in full production; large sizes are most prevalent
- Mexico’s Baja crop is dominated by small sizes (6×6 and 6×7) as the season progresses
- Central Mexico (crossing into South Texas) is shipping consistent supplies; quality is merely average due to past inclement weather
- The United States government abolished the Tomato Suspension Agreement and instituted a 17.09% duty on Mexican fresh tomatoes that began July 14
- Markets have not reacted as the domestic U.S. season is well underway
- The main Mexican growing season will begin in October; expect more of an impact at that time
- Expect slightly higher prices due to East Coast delays caused by poor weather
Romas
- East Coast volume is low due to recent poor weather
- The Tennessee and North Carolina seasons have begun; supplies are limited
- California’s San Joaquin Valley is in full production; quality is good
- Central Mexico yields are steady; quality is fair
- Baja growers are shipping limited quantities of small-sized fruit
- Expect steady prices until East Coast stocks increase over the next week
- Grape & Cherry Varieties
- Overall supply levels are low; yields should increase next week when the Virginia season begins
- Smaller local harvests are starting in Tennessee, Kentucky, and North Carolina, adding to overall volume
- The Baja and Central Mexico regions are shipping adequate supplies
- Expect slightly lower markets next week
- *****
- ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Fourth-generation melon grower Legend Produce says it has added mini watermelons to its melon program, complementing its full-size seedless offerings.
“Adding mini watermelons to our melon program is the natural step forward, building on the successful full-size program,” Legend Produce founder Barry Zwillinger said in a news release. “Now we are a one-stop shop for everything from cantaloupe and honeydew to our specialty Origami and Kiss melons and finally our full-size and mini watermelon programs.”
Starting in spring, the mini watermelons will be available through November with the Scottsdale, Ariz.-based Legend Produce’s growing regions of Mexico, California’s Imperial Valley, central Arizona and central California.
“Working with the right growers during their best harvest windows has been our primary goal,” Zwillinger said. “This sourcing strategy allows Legend to continually offer the quality that we are known for in the industry.”
Legend Produce says it wants to offer watermelons year-round and is working to expand its production in the winter months.
“Legend is a relationship-first company when working with growers,” Chief Financial Officer Marco Ochoa said in the release. “Most of our growers have been working with us for 20-plus years. As we expand our watermelon offerings, we are working with our existing partners as well as forging new relationships to make the program successful.”
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Dayka & Hackett, a leader in global fresh produce distribution, has announced a new partnership with UVEX, a premium Mexico-based table grape grower and exporter.
The partnership will focus on developing 500+ hectares of land into premium grape varieties, including Sun World International, Grapa, and Bloom Fresh, expanding D&H’s table grape portfolio and customer offerings.
“Partnering with UVEX is a key step toward enhancing our table grape offerings, and we are excited about the potential to deliver exceptional grapes that exceed the expectations of our customers,” Kyle Hackett, CEO of Dayka & Hackett, said. “This collaboration will enable us to provide a steady supply of premium varieties and continue to lead the industry in innovation and quality.”
As part of the project, D&H will implement an innovative indoor packing and cooling facility, specifically designed for clamshell, bi-color, and tricolor packaging. The organization said the modern facility will ensure efficiency and quality control, delivering fresh, high-quality grapes to the market.
“Eight years ago, we set out to revolutionize our vineyards by introducing superior grape varieties—meticulously selected and expertly cultivated to deliver exceptional quality,” Luis Carrillo, UVEX’s Commercial Director, said. “Today, we’re proud to partner with Dayka & Hackett, a company that shares our passion for excellence. This strategic alliance marks a bold step forward in raising the standard for flavor and quality in the Mexican table grape industry.”
The U.S. Department of Agriculture released its June citrus forecast, projecting Florida’s all‑orange production at 12.0 million boxes, up 3% from May and down 34% from the 2023–24 season.
The updated outlook includes 4.6 million boxes of non‑Valencia oranges and 7.4 million boxes of Valencia varieties, reversing last month’s slight decline in non‑Valencia production and indicating growth in the Valencia segment.
Grapefruit production remains unchanged at 1.3 million boxes, divided between 1.16 million red and 0.14 million white grapefruit. Lemon and tangerine/mandarin forecasts also held steady at 600,000 and 400,000 boxes, respectively.
Production in the 2023-24 season had seen a rare 10% year-on-year rise.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
By Kenneth Cavallaro, Jr. ALC Boston
America’s supply chain depends on truck drivers to transport goods safely and efficiently across the country. As active members in the supply chain logistics industry, we know firsthand that the aging out of drivers can significantly impact operations and the timely delivery of goods. With the average age of truck drivers rising and fewer young adults entering the profession, is the industry doing enough to attract and retain young drivers to replace retiring older drivers?
The American Trucking Association estimates that there could be a shortage of at least 160,000 drivers by the year 2028. Addressing this gap requires a focused effort on recruiting young workers into the profession.
Truck driving can be a demanding career. Long hours, time away from family, and skyrocketing insurance costs (further complicated by higher premiums for younger, less experienced drivers) are significant roadblocks. Driving services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer greater flexibility with a reduction in time spent away from home or waiting to load or unload products.
So, how do we overcome these obstacles and attract more people to long-haul trucking? Fortunately, many asset-based companies are offering competitive benefits and improved wages. A recent study showed a 15.5% increase in driver wages per mile. One way to attract young drivers is by communicating the financial incentives of long-haul trucking to potential recruits, as well as maintaining viable wages and benefits in today’s market. Beyond the paycheck, truck driving offers a rare sense of freedom and autonomy — no desk, no daily micromanagement — just the open road and the opportunity to see the country while building a rewarding, independent career.
Organizations like NEXTGEN Trucking (NGT) work to promote trucking and logistics as rewarding career paths for young people. They partner with schools, educators, and industries to build and support high school and post-secondary CDL-drivers, diesel tech, and supply chain programs, connect students with employers, offer scholarships and resources, and celebrate student and industry achievements.
While stringent regulations are necessary for safety, the rigorous training and certification process can discourage potential drivers from entering the industry. Incentives such as sign-on bonuses, training assistance, and career milestone rewards could help attract and retain talent. In addition, we can improve work-life balance by leveraging technology to streamline driver routes and match owner-operators with hauls closer to their home base, allowing them more time with their families and reducing frustration from wasted miles. This type of flexibility and family-focused scheduling would appeal to today’s younger workforce and help reduce turnover long-term.
Taking care of that workforce is more than a want; it is a necessity. The next time you shop for fresh produce, clothing, or home goods, keep in mind the drivers that make it possible. Now is the time to make the changes that will attract and keep additional drivers in lifelong careers in the industry; otherwise, we face higher transportation costs, shipping delays, and a disrupted supply chain. By showing the next generation that truck driving isn’t just a job, but an opportunity to live life on your terms, with purpose and pride, we can reshape how the industry is seen and secure its future.
*****
Kenneth Cavallaro, Jr. is a Carrier Manager in the Boston office. He brings 26 years of experience in the transportation industry and has been with Allen Lund Company since 2019. Kenneth holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Salem State University.
kenneth.cavallaro@allenlund.com
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Lipman Family Farms of Immokalee, FL has acquired tomato grower Shelton & Sons of Morristown, TN. The company says the acquisition strengthens Lipman’s domestic footprint and reinforces its ability to supply consistent, high-quality roma tomatoes year-round, solidifying the critical July through October growing season.
Shelton & Sons has been a dedicated partner in Lipman’s local grower network for decades, contributing to Lipman’s seasonal success with roma tomatoes in the eastern U.S., according to a release. Lipman says Shelton & Sons’ long-standing reputation for excellence and integrity in farming aligns with its values around family, quality and community.
“For years, Shelton & Sons has helped us deliver the freshest product to our customers during peak season,” said Lipman Family Farms CEO Elyse Lipman. “Their deep history in family farming and consistent supply makes them a natural extension of our team. We’re honored to bring them fully into the Lipman network.”
With this acquisition, Lipman strengthens its regional supply chain during summer and fall months and continues its investment in reliable, domestic agriculture, the release said. Shelton & Sons will maintain its focus on roma tomato production, offering customers continuity with the added support of Lipman’s nationwide infrastructure.
“Our family has been growing tomatoes in Morristown for decades, and Lipman has been a trusted partner through it all,” said Terry Cantrell of Shelton & Sons. “Joining the Lipman family feels like a natural next step that lets us continue on the legacy of farming with purpose.”
This marks the third major acquisition in the last eighteen months for Lipman Family Farms. In 2024, the company welcomed another longtime roma tomato partner, Jones & Church Farms of Unicoi, Tenn., and expanded in the Northeast market with the acquisition of Northeast Produce, a tomato repacker in Connecticut.
“We are dedicated to growing our team with like-minded companies and individuals so we can continue to make fresh produce accessible to families for generations to come,” Lipman said.
The Port of Oakland welcomed 2025 on a positive note, experiencing growth in both import and export volumes. In January 2025, loaded container volume reached 146,187 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), marking an 8.5% increase from January 2024, which saw 144,405 TEUs.
“Strong import growth indicates the resilience of Northern California’s economy and reflects the confidence cargo owners have in our port,” stated Bryan Brandes, the Maritime Director of the Port of Oakland. “Export volumes remain steady, showcasing the ongoing global demand for U.S. agricultural and manufactured goods. This growth is a result of the dedicated efforts and collaboration among our labor force, terminal operators, and supply chain partners. We value their commitment and will continue to work together to enhance efficiency and expand capacity to better serve our customers.”
Loaded imports experienced a 13% increase, with 81,453 TEUs processed in January 2025, compared to 72,081 TEUs in January 2024. In contrast, loaded exports saw more modest growth at 3.4%, totaling 64,735 TEUs in January 2025, up from 62,596 TEUs the previous year.
Additionally, empty imports dropped significantly by 26.2%, with 12,625 TEUs departing the Port in January 2025 compared to 17,117 TEUs in January 2024. Conversely, empty exports rose by 19.8%, with the Port handling 34,363 TEUs this January, compared to 28,694 TEUs in January 2024.
California Giant Berry Farms is gearing up for an auspicious Pacific Northwest blueberry season, with the company expecting increased volumes of both conventional and organic blueberries from the region. The firm plans to initiate harvests across Oregon, British Columbia, and Eastern Washington, aiming to maintain a steady supply through early September and throughout the summer.
Tim Youmans, Vice President of Sales, noted that the current season has shown promising volume projections from northern growing areas. To support quality standards, California Giant will ship directly from its growers and utilize its Santa Maria facility’s Unitec sorting line, which sorts berries based on various quality metrics.
“We’re very pleased with the current blueberry season and the anticipated strong volumes from our Northern growing regions,” said Youmans. “Our focus remains on providing a year-round supply of the highest quality blueberries. The upcoming harvests will allow us to maintain excellent availability for our retail and foodservice partners, and ultimately, for consumers.”
In a release, the company also highlighted the growth of jumbo blueberries within the market, driven by changing consumer preferences. Nielsen data indicated double-digit increases in both sales and volume, with jumbo berries gaining a larger share of the blueberry market.
Over the past two decades, per-capita consumption of fresh avocados in the United States has increased by approximately 260%, reflecting a broader interest in foods perceived as healthy and versatile. This trend is influenced by changing dietary habits, increased interest in plant-based nutrition, and the popularity of dishes such as avocado toast.
In response to this demand, the Hass Avocado Board (HAB) partnered with Food & Culinary Professionals (FCP), a dietetic practice group within the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, to develop recipes exploring new avocado culinary uses. The collaboration is aimed at demonstrating the fruit’s adaptability across different types of meals and to promote awareness of its nutritional profile.
The project coincides with broader concerns around dietary habits in the U.S. A recent survey of over 1,000 adults indicated that while 93% of respondents understand the importance of good nutrition, only half consistently maintain healthy eating practices most days of the week. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025, roughly 90% of Americans do not meet the recommended vegetable intake, and 80% fall short on fruit consumption.
Fresh avocados are recognized as a nutrient-dense food, offering dietary fiber and unsaturated fats. These nutrients are associated with various health benefits, including heart health and digestive support. Avocados also provide vitamins and minerals such as potassium, folate, and vitamin E.
“Avocados have long been a staple in many cuisines, but there is potential for continued exploration of new uses and combinations,” said Amanda Izquierdo, MPH, RD, LDN, PR & Advertising Manager at HAB. The initiative focused on expanding perceptions of avocado use beyond common applications like guacamole or toast.
Among the recipes developed through this effort are:
- Javacado Frozen Mocha: A drink combining espresso and avocado, designed to deliver creaminess without added sugars.
- Key Lime Pie Avocado Frozen Yogurt Bark: A dessert-style snack using avocado, yogurt, lime juice, and honey.
- Avocado Gnocchi with Avocado Cilantro Lime Sauce: A variation on gnocchi using mashed avocado in place of potatoes.
- Street Corn-Style Soup: A one-pot dish combining avocado, corn, beans, and lime.
- Miso-Marinated Salad with Whipped Avocado Dressing: A grain-based salad featuring a citrus-accented avocado dressing.
- HAB continues to invest in research and education aimed at understanding avocados’ role in nutrition and encouraging their consumption for a balanced diet. The board’s work targets both consumers and health professionals to close the gap between nutritional knowledge and everyday eating behaviors.
The Association of Hass Avocado Producers and Exporters of Peru (ProHass) has revised its projections for the remainder of the 2025 season.
The estimated export volume is 655,000 tons, representing a 20 percent reduction compared to the March projection. Despite this, the total volume is expected to increase by 30 percent compared to the 2024 season, according to a press release.
The association indicated that, despite the trend toward lower volumes compared to previous reports, the sector maintains favorable prospects for its main international destinations.
For example, despite the increase in shipping rates and the application of a 10 percent tariff in the North American market, exports to the United States are projected to grow by 75 percent compared to the previous year, representing an 18 percent share of the total exported volume.
Europe, for its part, has consolidated its position as the top destination market, with a projected growth of 24 percent compared to the previous year. It is worth noting that Peru is the leader in this market, with a 42 percent share. Meanwhile, other strategic markets such as Chile, China, and Japan continue to strengthen their position as key destinations for Peruvian Hass avocados.
ProHass noted that this positive performance occurs in a challenging context, marked by rising logistics costs and the downward revision of initial estimates, but despite these factors, the sector maintains a solid foundation, supported by operational efficiency, market diversification, and compliance with high quality standards.
“These figures confirm that, even in an adverse environment, the joint effort between producers, exporters, and authorities allows the pace of growth to be maintained,” said José Antonio Castro, president of the association.
ProHass reported that the sector will continue monitoring the performance of international markets to ensure the sustainability and competitiveness of Peruvian exports.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Tomato shipments are slowly increasing on the East Coast as smaller regional harvests begin; overall prices are slightly higher due to the impact of past poor weather, according to a press release by Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA. The company is currently shipping Markon First Crop (MFC) Tomatoes.
Rounds
- East Coast volume is low in Tennessee and Virginia, but starting to climb; local summer harvests will help supplement orders in mid-July
- Western North Carolina is shipping sufficient quantities of vine-ripe supplies
- California’s San Joaquin Valley is in full production; large sizes are most prevalent
- Mexico’s Baja crop is dominated by small sizes (6×6 and 6×7) as the season progresses
- Central Mexico (crossing into South Texas) is shipping consistent supplies; quality is merely average due to past inclement weather
- The United States government abolished the Tomato Suspension Agreement and instituted a 17.09% duty on Mexican fresh tomatoes that began July 14
- Markets have not reacted as the domestic U.S. season is well underway
- The main Mexican growing season will begin in October; expect more of an impact at that time
- Expect slightly higher prices due to East Coast delays caused by poor weather
Romas
- East Coast volume is low due to recent poor weather
- The Tennessee and North Carolina seasons have begun; supplies are limited
- California’s San Joaquin Valley is in full production; quality is good
- Central Mexico yields are steady; quality is fair
- Baja growers are shipping limited quantities of small-sized fruit
- Expect steady prices until East Coast stocks increase over the next week
- Grape & Cherry Varieties
- Overall supply levels are low; yields should increase next week when the Virginia season begins
- Smaller local harvests are starting in Tennessee, Kentucky, and North Carolina, adding to overall volume
- The Baja and Central Mexico regions are shipping adequate supplies
- Expect slightly lower markets next week
- *****
- ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Fourth-generation melon grower Legend Produce says it has added mini watermelons to its melon program, complementing its full-size seedless offerings.
“Adding mini watermelons to our melon program is the natural step forward, building on the successful full-size program,” Legend Produce founder Barry Zwillinger said in a news release. “Now we are a one-stop shop for everything from cantaloupe and honeydew to our specialty Origami and Kiss melons and finally our full-size and mini watermelon programs.”
Starting in spring, the mini watermelons will be available through November with the Scottsdale, Ariz.-based Legend Produce’s growing regions of Mexico, California’s Imperial Valley, central Arizona and central California.
“Working with the right growers during their best harvest windows has been our primary goal,” Zwillinger said. “This sourcing strategy allows Legend to continually offer the quality that we are known for in the industry.”
Legend Produce says it wants to offer watermelons year-round and is working to expand its production in the winter months.
“Legend is a relationship-first company when working with growers,” Chief Financial Officer Marco Ochoa said in the release. “Most of our growers have been working with us for 20-plus years. As we expand our watermelon offerings, we are working with our existing partners as well as forging new relationships to make the program successful.”
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Dayka & Hackett, a leader in global fresh produce distribution, has announced a new partnership with UVEX, a premium Mexico-based table grape grower and exporter.
The partnership will focus on developing 500+ hectares of land into premium grape varieties, including Sun World International, Grapa, and Bloom Fresh, expanding D&H’s table grape portfolio and customer offerings.
“Partnering with UVEX is a key step toward enhancing our table grape offerings, and we are excited about the potential to deliver exceptional grapes that exceed the expectations of our customers,” Kyle Hackett, CEO of Dayka & Hackett, said. “This collaboration will enable us to provide a steady supply of premium varieties and continue to lead the industry in innovation and quality.”
As part of the project, D&H will implement an innovative indoor packing and cooling facility, specifically designed for clamshell, bi-color, and tricolor packaging. The organization said the modern facility will ensure efficiency and quality control, delivering fresh, high-quality grapes to the market.
“Eight years ago, we set out to revolutionize our vineyards by introducing superior grape varieties—meticulously selected and expertly cultivated to deliver exceptional quality,” Luis Carrillo, UVEX’s Commercial Director, said. “Today, we’re proud to partner with Dayka & Hackett, a company that shares our passion for excellence. This strategic alliance marks a bold step forward in raising the standard for flavor and quality in the Mexican table grape industry.”
The U.S. Department of Agriculture released its June citrus forecast, projecting Florida’s all‑orange production at 12.0 million boxes, up 3% from May and down 34% from the 2023–24 season.
The updated outlook includes 4.6 million boxes of non‑Valencia oranges and 7.4 million boxes of Valencia varieties, reversing last month’s slight decline in non‑Valencia production and indicating growth in the Valencia segment.
Grapefruit production remains unchanged at 1.3 million boxes, divided between 1.16 million red and 0.14 million white grapefruit. Lemon and tangerine/mandarin forecasts also held steady at 600,000 and 400,000 boxes, respectively.
Production in the 2023-24 season had seen a rare 10% year-on-year rise.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
By Kenneth Cavallaro, Jr. ALC Boston
America’s supply chain depends on truck drivers to transport goods safely and efficiently across the country. As active members in the supply chain logistics industry, we know firsthand that the aging out of drivers can significantly impact operations and the timely delivery of goods. With the average age of truck drivers rising and fewer young adults entering the profession, is the industry doing enough to attract and retain young drivers to replace retiring older drivers?
The American Trucking Association estimates that there could be a shortage of at least 160,000 drivers by the year 2028. Addressing this gap requires a focused effort on recruiting young workers into the profession.
Truck driving can be a demanding career. Long hours, time away from family, and skyrocketing insurance costs (further complicated by higher premiums for younger, less experienced drivers) are significant roadblocks. Driving services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer greater flexibility with a reduction in time spent away from home or waiting to load or unload products.
So, how do we overcome these obstacles and attract more people to long-haul trucking? Fortunately, many asset-based companies are offering competitive benefits and improved wages. A recent study showed a 15.5% increase in driver wages per mile. One way to attract young drivers is by communicating the financial incentives of long-haul trucking to potential recruits, as well as maintaining viable wages and benefits in today’s market. Beyond the paycheck, truck driving offers a rare sense of freedom and autonomy — no desk, no daily micromanagement — just the open road and the opportunity to see the country while building a rewarding, independent career.
Organizations like NEXTGEN Trucking (NGT) work to promote trucking and logistics as rewarding career paths for young people. They partner with schools, educators, and industries to build and support high school and post-secondary CDL-drivers, diesel tech, and supply chain programs, connect students with employers, offer scholarships and resources, and celebrate student and industry achievements.
While stringent regulations are necessary for safety, the rigorous training and certification process can discourage potential drivers from entering the industry. Incentives such as sign-on bonuses, training assistance, and career milestone rewards could help attract and retain talent. In addition, we can improve work-life balance by leveraging technology to streamline driver routes and match owner-operators with hauls closer to their home base, allowing them more time with their families and reducing frustration from wasted miles. This type of flexibility and family-focused scheduling would appeal to today’s younger workforce and help reduce turnover long-term.
Taking care of that workforce is more than a want; it is a necessity. The next time you shop for fresh produce, clothing, or home goods, keep in mind the drivers that make it possible. Now is the time to make the changes that will attract and keep additional drivers in lifelong careers in the industry; otherwise, we face higher transportation costs, shipping delays, and a disrupted supply chain. By showing the next generation that truck driving isn’t just a job, but an opportunity to live life on your terms, with purpose and pride, we can reshape how the industry is seen and secure its future.
*****
Kenneth Cavallaro, Jr. is a Carrier Manager in the Boston office. He brings 26 years of experience in the transportation industry and has been with Allen Lund Company since 2019. Kenneth holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Salem State University.
kenneth.cavallaro@allenlund.com
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Lipman Family Farms of Immokalee, FL has acquired tomato grower Shelton & Sons of Morristown, TN. The company says the acquisition strengthens Lipman’s domestic footprint and reinforces its ability to supply consistent, high-quality roma tomatoes year-round, solidifying the critical July through October growing season.
Shelton & Sons has been a dedicated partner in Lipman’s local grower network for decades, contributing to Lipman’s seasonal success with roma tomatoes in the eastern U.S., according to a release. Lipman says Shelton & Sons’ long-standing reputation for excellence and integrity in farming aligns with its values around family, quality and community.
“For years, Shelton & Sons has helped us deliver the freshest product to our customers during peak season,” said Lipman Family Farms CEO Elyse Lipman. “Their deep history in family farming and consistent supply makes them a natural extension of our team. We’re honored to bring them fully into the Lipman network.”
With this acquisition, Lipman strengthens its regional supply chain during summer and fall months and continues its investment in reliable, domestic agriculture, the release said. Shelton & Sons will maintain its focus on roma tomato production, offering customers continuity with the added support of Lipman’s nationwide infrastructure.
“Our family has been growing tomatoes in Morristown for decades, and Lipman has been a trusted partner through it all,” said Terry Cantrell of Shelton & Sons. “Joining the Lipman family feels like a natural next step that lets us continue on the legacy of farming with purpose.”
This marks the third major acquisition in the last eighteen months for Lipman Family Farms. In 2024, the company welcomed another longtime roma tomato partner, Jones & Church Farms of Unicoi, Tenn., and expanded in the Northeast market with the acquisition of Northeast Produce, a tomato repacker in Connecticut.
“We are dedicated to growing our team with like-minded companies and individuals so we can continue to make fresh produce accessible to families for generations to come,” Lipman said.