Interviews

The industry veteran discusses the key trends he anticipates will shape the produce sector in the coming years, how he expects supplier-grocer relationships to evolve, and the advice he would offer to fruit and vegetable growers and distributors looking to partner with Target.

Alán Ricardo Aguirre Ibarra, a pioneer in the Mexican table grape industry and co-founder of major grower Grupo Alta — whose U.S. marketing arm is Divine Flavor — discusses the company’s rise to prominence, trends in the sector, and the future of premium grape production.

An acclaimed agricultural economist currently teaching at UC Davis, Daniel A. Sumner reflects on the evolving challenges in farming, the impact of policy and technology, and the resilience of the produce industry.

Miguel Bentín, a key figure in Peru’s blueberry industry, highlights how people-centered collaboration among businesses, government, and farmers drives sustainable growth while tackling challenges like overproduction and rural community impact.

CarrieAnn Arias, the newly appointed CEO of Pear Bureau Northwest, brings her extensive marketing experience and industry insights to the role. Here, she outlines her vision for the pear industry and wider produce sector, and shares strategies for successful product innovation.