ORLANDO - Technology is playing an ever more important role in instore deli and bakery departments, but the employees who really make those departments shine aren't going anywhere.
Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin-based Good Foods Group LLC sells guacamole, salsa, plant-based dips, rBST-free dairy dips, juices and dressing in the fresh produce sections of grocery stores.
Labor-related issues have always been top of mind for grocery retailers, says Doug Baker, vice president of industry relations for private brands and technology for the Arlington, Virginia-based Food Marketing Institute.
One of the main goals of the Washington, D.C.-based United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association’s annual show, set for June 10-12 in Chicago, is to add new energy and harness the momentum of innovation in the fresh produce industry, says Tom Stenzel, the association’s president and CEO.
The Food Marketing Institute and its members are applauding a letter from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that supports industry efforts to reduce consumer confusion on food product date labels.