SACRAMENTO, CA - With a foot firmly planted in 2024 (well, maybe a toe in the water), the momentum of the new year is already ramping up, and the horizon feels even more tangible than usual. Our friends in the industry have passionately entered January with new aspirations and a firming up of renewed commitments.

With so much to look forward to, I checked in with some of our friends who shared their words of appreciation—ones that nearly knocked me out of my chair and ones that felt like the warmest of handshakes.

Kristen Santangelo, Marketing Programs Manager, Produce Pro Software from Aptean

“Greetings to the vibrant and dedicated individuals of the produce industry! Wishing everyone health, happiness, and continued growth throughout the coming year. Being one of the most important industries out there, may your hard work and dedication yield a cornucopia of success.”

Sara Lozano, Marketing and Product Development, Sambrailo Packaging

"What a ride 2023 was! For 2024, I am most excited (and a tad anxious) to see where government policies—the state of California, the United States, and Canada—will direct us in terms of packaging compliance this year. This determines so much for us as a team, how we support our customers, and what we will be discussing throughout the industry. Here's to more family, friends, and good food to share in 2024!”

Lara Grossman, Director of Marketing, Ippolito International 

"Looking ahead, let’s remind ourselves of all that goes into a box of fresh produce. Each of us, up and down the produce value chain, faces challenges daily. And every day, we get it done, creating value from a combination of hard work, determination, soil, water, and seed—resulting in healthy products that consumers can enjoy. Not a bad gig! Cheers to a productive 2024 and the ‘everyday hustle’ that drives us!"

Stephanie Hilton, Marketing and Business Development, The Tom Lange Family of Companies

"Happy New Year to all our friends and colleagues in fresh produce. As we make our way through January, my goal for 2024 is to appreciate and enjoy more moments and not speed past them. See you all soon!"

Matt Mandel, Vice President of Finance and Legal, SunFed®

“To all my friends, colleagues, and esteemed mortal enemies, may 2024 bring you health, happiness, and the best life has to offer, and may we always be one box short and the market gods ever be in our favor.”

Happy New Year, friends and family! See you all very soon—from your dedicated supporters at AndNowUKnow.