Latest Fresh Produce News & Insights

Columnist Armand Lobato recalls taking a much-needed break from the constant demands of being a produce buyer... Read More

Produce clerks’ courteous interactions with shoppers can enhance the in-store experience, but they should also know when it reaches a counterproductive point, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

Are overnight graveyard shifts common in the produce aisle? No, but there’s a place for overnight shifts, and with them come many benefits, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

Dismiss fruit baskets as obsolete if you will, but shopper demand says otherwise, explains columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

While many lessons lie ahead, it’s also key to emphasize that quality is first and speed comes later, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

Every display can be an eye-catcher if given the right touch and proper care, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

Even with a solid background in management in another area, the success of someone in charge often comes down to having hands-on produce know-how, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

While a manager can admire everything that’s done right in their produce aisle, a consumer’s view can offer a humbling — and needed — perspective, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

Football season is here, and it’s always been a good theme to help promote fresh produce, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

These events, pairing growers with buyers, provide a trove of valuable insights and good memories, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

When is comes to addressing a dissatisfied shopper, the lesson is clear for any retailer, explains columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

AI may deliver great advances in many aspects, but it’s the produce manager who holds the upper hand when it comes to applying common sense in the grocery business, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

Don‘t want to waste time or money when a truckload of fresh produce arrives? Get organized with these recommendations from columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

Even with a comprehensive produce manual to offer direction, store results depend on the produce manager’s approach to preparing a crew and holding them accountable, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

When developing a team, keep an eye out for those eager to learn more about the business, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

By providing essential details efficiently, buyers help produce managers operate more effectively, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

Be more than a store people visit just for a specific item or two. Columnist Armand Lobato shares tips for being the primary destination for consumers’ food purchases... Read More

When the boss is in a pinch and asks if you can come in to help, there’s really only one answer, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

Assumptions about covering for veteran clerks on vacation can backfire. Columnist Armand Lobato explains how to secure commitments for that vital extra help... Read More

A misguided approach to pricing can cost you loyal customers. Columnist Armand Lobato discusses how to achieve sales goals and keep shoppers satisfied... Read More

All produce buying trips are educational, but some more memorable than others, says columnist Armand Lobato of a visit to meet grape growers and shippers in Chile... Read More

Nothing beats great customer service, and having responsive and knowledgeable produce clerks helps a grocer stand out, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More

A well-kept produce department often is a profitable one. Columnist Armand Lobato explains how to build a regimen that gets results... Read More

When a manager takes a week off, someone has to step up. Columnist Armand Lobato discusses compensation for taking on those key responsibilities... Read More

Establishing rules, levying accountability and treating everyone fairly are keys to a well-run operation, says columnist Armand Lobato... Read More