As the cost of labor increases and availability around harvest tightens, California raisin growers are hopeful that two new complete dried on the vine (DOV) varieties will make a big difference for the future of the industry.  Austin Hubbell of Marthedal Enterprises is one such grower who has had the unique experience in harvesting both varieties, which appear to have …

When Sun-Maid Growers announced its acquisition of baby food brand Plum Organics in 2021, it came as a surprise to many.  Naturally, raisin growers wanted to know how this might benefit the California raisin industry, beyond simply growing and diversifying Sun-Maid’s portfolio.  Watch this brief interview with Sun-Maid Growers Executive Chairman Harry Overly as he explains. Please thank this video’s …

Former Sun-Maid President Barry Kriebel has returned to industry leadership as the new President of the Raisin Bargaining Association (RBA).  Approved by the association board of directors on the evening of Feb. 2, watch this brief interview with Barry and Chairman of the selection committee Mitch Sangha to learn more. Read about it in the next issue of American Vineyard Magazine. …

From the Annual Meeting of Sun-Maid Growers, watch this brief interview with Chairman of the Board Steve Kister as he reports on the results of the 2022 crop and State of the Raisin Industry.  Read more about it in the coming issue of American Vineyard Magazine. Please thank this video’s sponsor Suterra for their industry support.

Sun-Maid Growers of California has recently gone through some leadership changes, and at their annual meeting in December, growers were introduced to a new President of the cooperative, Steve Loftus. Watch this brief interview to get to know Steve and what he plans to bring to Sun-Maid.  Read more about it in American Vineyard Magazine. Please thank this video’s sponsor Suterra for …

There have been rumors that Sun-Maid Growers’ CEO has left to take the position as CEO of another snacking food company.  Watch this video interview with outgoing CEO Harry Overly as he clarifies his position at Sun-Maid.  Read more about it in the coming issue of American Vineyard Magazine. Please thank this video’s sponsor Suterra for their industry support.

Monte Schutz, Chairman of the Raisin Administrative Committee (RAC), was among the panelists sharing their views of the current State of the California Raisin Industry this year at the annual Grape, Nut & Tree Fruit Expo.  Watch this brief interview with Monte as he reminds growers of some of the essential roles the RAC plays in serving the industry.  Read …

In addition to frost damage in the spring, San Joaquin Valley vineyards also experienced severe heat stress as well that took a toll on the crop.  Watch this brief interview with UCCE Viticulture Farm Advisor George Zhuang as he shares how growers can better prepare their vineyards for future heat waves — as discussed at the recent Grape, Nut & …