All articles by Mike Knowles
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NewsAustralian avocado sales rise despite production dip
Industry body reports growth in domestic demand and export markets as production is forecast to reach 170,000 tonnes within two years
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NewsOrsero Group reports strong growth in half-year results
Italian fresh produce distributor records significant revenue and profit growth, with particularly strong performance in kiwifruit, grapes, fresh-cut and exotic fruit categories
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NewsThe Flavour Farm to acquire Dutch tomato specialist RedStar
Cibus-owned greenhouse producer continues expansion strategy with acquisition of second major Dutch tomato business, following Duijvestijn deal in 2023
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NewsDriscoll’s appoints Jiunn Shih as first global marketing chief
Appointment reunites former Zespri executive with ex-CEO Dan Mathieson, and underscores company’s commitment to strengthening global brand presence
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NewsDutch greenhouse workers trial exoskeletons to reduce strain
A pilot project in the Netherlands is evaluating how mechanical support devices could make repetitive horticultural tasks less physically demanding
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NewsMarcus De Luca appointed as Kölla Nova managing director
The experienced produce professional brings 25 years of industry expertise to strengthen the company’s specialist discount retail supply division.
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NewsMurdock companies to sell Dole shares worth US$158m
Castle & Cooke Holdings and The Murdock Group to divest all remaining holdings in world’s largest fresh produce company, concluding Murdock’s four-decade connection with the business
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NewsHein Deprez completes Greenyard buyout
Belgian multinational returns to private ownership following completion of ‘simplified squeeze-out’
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NewsLandgard appoints Roland Neuwald to board of directors
Appointment comes as part of transition following departure of previous CEO Oliver Mans in June
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NewsItalian firms forge new connections at Asia Fruit Logistica
Companies including Infia, Origine Group, Unifrutti Group/Oranfrizer, RK Growers, Rivoira, and KiKoKà report successful meetings with existing and potential clients from across Asia at the international trade show
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NewsApeel Sciences sues wellness influencer over ‘toxic’ coating claims
California-based company files lawsuit against wellness influencer Robyn Openshaw, alleging she conducted years-long disinformation campaign against company’s plant-based produce coatings
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NewsFyffes and Ocado open new school facilities in Belize
Fruit supplier and online retailer fund new educational facilities in south of country, providing safe classrooms for 271 pupils and a hurricane shelter for local residents
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NewsJingold sees Asian potential despite logistical challenges
Despite an ongoing logistical challenge, kiwifruit marketer Jingold is back at Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong this week, highlighting the continued importance of Asian markets ahead of an anticipated production increase
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NewsRivoira Group forecasts 75 per cent rise in Sambóa apple production
Italian crop of branded apples expected to rise significantly this season, as major marketing campaign kicks off across Europe
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NewsGlobal Plant Genetics celebrates decade of horticultural innovation
The UK-based specialist in berries, asparagus, grapes and nuts has built a global network and received royal recognition for its international trade success
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NewsNew Zealand fruit exports surge to NZ$2.96bn in 2025
New Zealand’s fruit export value climbed significantly in the first half of 2025, with total overseas sales showing a 27 per cent increase year-on-year
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NewsChiquita’s return to Panama welcomed by business chamber
Panama’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture has welcomed banana giant Chiquita’s decision to resume operations in Bocas del Toro by February 2026, following its recent departure amid a labour dispute
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NewsOZblu launches Chinese brand name at Asia Fruit Logistica
United Exports’ premium blueberry brand deepens engagement with Chinese customers through the introduction of trademarked local brand name
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NewsBrio defies stagnant organic market with 21 per cent sales growth
Italian organic fruit and vegetable specialist posts impressive increase to €67.3mn, bucking the trend in a market experiencing minimal growth in consumption
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NewsItalian growers hungry for growth as apple turnover warms up
The start of the new apple season looks extremely promising for Italian consortium Vog, with sales of premium brands continuing to grow and consumer awareness of its portfolio brand Marlene reaching an all-time high