PRODUCE UNIVERSE - It has been a wild year for fresh produce companies. Time has seemed even more compressed than usual, as if 2023 was almost entirely bookends. With the holidays upon us, I love to slow for just a moment and ground in gratitude and adoration for all that you do and everything you are—our fresh produce friends. Thank you again for your gift of time and relentless passion to elevate our industry. We hope you feel our support and deep appreciation every day.

In the spirit of the season, I reached out to some of our friends to share their words as well as we button up this December.

Mac Riggan, Director of Marketing, Chelan Fresh

"At this time of year, I realize I’m blessed with all the things you can’t write a check for. Happy holidays to all of our friends, customers, and industry colleagues. See you in the new year."

Leslie Simmons, Senior Director of Business Development, Fresh, Fair Trade USA™

"My daughter will be 10 years old in February, and this holiday season has been one to cherish. Music and magic are in the air, and I am reflecting on the sweet memories we have made and the new ones that are yet to come. I am filled with a deep gratitude for my health, family, and friends, and the work I get to do in the industry I love. From holiday cocktail parties to quiet, cozy moments with my little family, I am soaking in the goodness of the season. Wishing all those reading this peace and joy in the new year!"

Harold Paivarinta, Senior Director of Sales and Business Development, Red Sun Farms™

“2023 was a challenging year for many of us in fresh produce. These tough times brought out the best in all of us as we worked together with solution-based mindsets, testing, and strengthening our relationships. As we look forward to and pray for a bright and prosperous 2024, I’d like to thank everyone for their collaboration, trust, and resolve over the past year. Produce people are a special and very select group. If this career was easy, everyone would do it. We’re all blessed to be members of such a wonderful industry!”

Rochelle Bohm, Vice President of Marketing, CMI Orchards

"As we embrace this festive Christmas season, I'm thrilled to share that our achievements at CMI have blossomed this year, made even sweeter with our union with Starr Ranch. Personally, I treasured a bucket list trip to Scotland with my daughter, while my son welcomed newfound independence with his first job and the freedom of wheels. Amidst one of the busiest years I can recall, it's been a period of remarkable growth and reward. I eagerly anticipate what 2024 will bring!"

Megan Zweig, President, DMA Solutions

"Is it just me or was 2023 kind of a beast? We should be so lucky to have the opportunity to close another year and look forward to a better, more fruitful year ahead. Wishing everyone a very happy and healthy holiday filled with joy and gratitude that we do the hard work while loving this industry that we serve. Merry Christmas and happy New Year from the team at DMA Solutions!"

Gene Harris, Senior Purchasing Manager, Denny’s

"Happy holidays to all of our industry friends! I'm very grateful for family, friends, faith, and the birth of Jesus Christ! I wish everyone 'His' peace and good health in 2024!"

Brianna Shales, Marketing Director, Stemilt

“I’m grateful for another year in the produce industry, and the great people I get to work alongside at Stemilt. It’s been a transformative year for the company I work for, and I’ve grown personally too. I work on the ‘dream team’ in marketing, where creative people are always willing to collaborate and support one another. I can’t wait to see what this group brings to life in 2024.”

To our fresh produce friends, colleagues, and family, happy holidays to you and yours. We look forward to supporting and advocating for you even more in 2024!