Greenhouse Product News https://gpnmag.com/ Professional Horticulture and Commercial Greenhouse Growers Mon, 06 Nov 2023 12:57:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 GPN/Prospiant Intern of the Year 2024 https://gpnmag.com/2023/07/gpn-prospiant-intern-of-the-year/ https://gpnmag.com/2023/07/gpn-prospiant-intern-of-the-year/#respond Sat, 29 Jul 2023 13:00:38 +0000 https://gpnmag.com/?p=85899   NOMINATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED. Every fall for the past 24 years, GPN and Prospiant have been recognizing outstanding college students with the GPN/Prospiant Intern of the Year Scholarship. And now we would like to find number 25! Do you know any undergraduate students who were able to participate in a floriculture/horticulture internship in 2023? If you do, […]

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NOMINATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED.

Every fall for the past 24 years, GPN and Prospiant have been recognizing outstanding college students with the GPN/Prospiant Intern of the Year Scholarship.

And now we would like to find number 25!

Do you know any undergraduate students who were able to participate in a floriculture/horticulture internship in 2023? If you do, please tell him or her to apply for this year’s scholarship.

Here is a reminder of what the 2024 GPN/Prospiant of the Year will receive:

  • A check for $3,000
  • An article featuring him or her in the January 2024 issue of GPN
  • Travel and hotel expenses to Cultivate’24 in Columbus, Ohio, in July, as well as a full Cultivate’24 registration (compliments of AmericanHort)

 

To be considered for the 2024 scholarship, the student must meet these requirements:

  • Must be enrolled in a four-year accredited university during 2022-2023 and 2023-2024;
  • Must be working on an undergraduate degree in horticulture/floriculture; and
  • Have completed a greenhouse-related internship in 2023.

To apply for the 2023 GPN/Prospiant Intern of the Year Scholarship the student needs to fill out the form below.

The deadline to apply is Oct. 20, 2023.

Any questions can be directed to Debbie Eisele, editorial director.

 

 

 

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Pantone Picks Very Peri for ‘22 https://gpnmag.com/2021/12/pantone-picks-very-peri-for-22/ https://gpnmag.com/2021/12/pantone-picks-very-peri-for-22/#respond Wed, 15 Dec 2021 17:22:36 +0000 https://gpnmag.com/?p=81221 On Dec. 9, global color authority Pantone introduced Very Peri, a new blue shade (PANTONE 17-3938), as the Pantone Color of the Year selection for 2022. A dynamic periwinkle blue hue, Very Peri has “a vivifying violet red undertone blending the faithfulness and constancy of blue with the energy and excitement of red. This happy […]

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On Dec. 9, global color authority Pantone introduced Very Peri, a new blue shade (PANTONE 17-3938), as the Pantone Color of the Year selection for 2022.

A dynamic periwinkle blue hue, Very Peri has “a vivifying violet red undertone blending the faithfulness and constancy of blue with the energy and excitement of red. This happy and warm blend of all the blue hues introduces an empowering mix of newness.”

“As we move into a world of unprecedented change, the selection of PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri brings a novel perspective and vision of the trusted and beloved blue color family,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director, Pantone Color Institute. “Encompassing the qualities of the blues, yet at the same time possessing a violet-red undertone, PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri displays a spritely, joyous attitude and dynamic presence that encourages courageous creativity and imaginative expression.”

What do you think of Very Peri? What varieties are you growing and selling that fall into this color category?

Drop me a line at thodson@greatamericanpublish.com and let me know.

— Tim

P.S. Have a happy holiday season from the team at GPN.

 

Big Box Retailers Come to Aid of Tornado Victims

Walmart, Lowe’s and The Home Depot were among the big box retailers who announced they would be contributing aid to the victims of the devastating tornadoes that hit Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas and Tennessee last week. Lowe’s said it will donate $1 million to its disaster relief partners including the American Red Cross and Lowe’s nonprofit Pro customers, helping these organizations and others provide aid and comfort to those affected by the deadly tornadoes. The Home Depot Foundation said it is committing up to $1 million to support the storm victims and help them in their recovery effort. Walmart also announced it would be sending water and other supplies to those affected by the storms and would be contributing more in the coming days.

Publix Helps Fight Hungers by Donating 400 Million Meals

To help put food on the tables of people in need, Publix grocery stores has donated nearly 400 million meals over the last two years. Due to the pandemic, the number of people turning to food banks for assistance increased and the need remains high. In addition to the company’s annual register campaigns for hunger alleviation and other programs, in April 2020 Publix began purchasing and donating fresh fruits and vegetables to Feeding America member food banks. “With hunger affecting every community, helping feed families in need is at the center of our charitable efforts. Everyone should have food on their table, and we’re committed to providing much-needed wholesome foods for our neighbors facing hunger,” said Publix CEO Todd Jones. “We’re grateful to be able to support our communities and do good, together.”

Very Merry Meijer Tradition Surprises Customers, Employees with Holiday Shopping Sprees

On Dec. 4, Meijer surprised hundreds of customers and employees with more than $500,000 in holiday shopping sprees, spreading cheer this holiday season during its annual Very Merry Meijer tradition. “The holiday season changed so much throughout the ongoing pandemic, but the change we’re most excited to see this season is our customers returning to their own family traditions as they prepare to gather again,” Executive Chairman Hank Meijer said. In addition to surprising a customer shopping in each store with a $1,000 gift card, the retailer also gifted five Pickup customers at each location with a $100 coupon for a future order and also surprised three team members in each store with $200 gift cards to thank them for their efforts this holiday season. This is the eighth year of the Very Merry Meijer event.

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Keep an Eye on These Trends in ’22 https://gpnmag.com/2021/11/keep-an-eye-on-these-trends-in-22/ https://gpnmag.com/2021/11/keep-an-eye-on-these-trends-in-22/#respond Tue, 30 Nov 2021 15:50:17 +0000 https://gpnmag.com/?p=81076 The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) recently released its top six consumer gardening trends for 2022. The PHS is an internationally recognized organization founded in 1827 and the producer of the world-famous Philadelphia Flower Show. “Adopting new trends offers gardeners the perfect way to revamp home gardens with new ideas and inspiration, while using gardening to […]

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The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) recently released its top six consumer gardening trends for 2022.

The PHS is an internationally recognized organization founded in 1827 and the producer of the world-famous Philadelphia Flower Show.

“Adopting new trends offers gardeners the perfect way to revamp home gardens with new ideas and inspiration, while using gardening to promote year-round health and well-being. This list of garden trends for 2022 is ideal for gardeners of all interests and experience levels to incorporate into their own gardens,” said Andrew Bunting, vice president of public gardens and landscapes at PHS.

According to the PHS, these are the consumer trends you need to keep an eye on in the coming year:

  1. Utilize Native and Pollinator-Friendly Plants
  2. Consider Turning Lawn Space into Garden Space
  3. Attend a Plant Swap and Make a New Friend
  4. Try Gravel Gardening, Waterwise Gardening or Xeriscaping
  5. Grow Your Own Fruit
  6. Cut Flowers Are Trending

You can learn more about these trends by clicking here. 

Don’t Forget

You can get even more insight into 2022 on Thursday, Dec. 2, when GPN will be presenting a free 90-minute webinar on “Outlook 2022: What’s on the Horizon in the Coming Year for the Economy, Consumers and Legislation.” The webinar will take place at 2 p.m. EST.

Join me along with Bridget Behe, Craig Regelbrugge and Charlie Hall as they examine the top issues facing the horticulture industry in 2022.

Click here to register for the free webinar.

— Tim

 

Home Depot Hosts Virtual Corporate Career Day

On Nov. 30, the Home Depot hosted its first-ever virtual Corporate Career Day. The home improvement retailer is hiring for roles across the organization, including positions in technology, marketing and operations, as well as for its Contact Centers. The event provided jobseekers with insight into a broad spectrum of open corporate positions at the company. Participants also had the opportunity to network with hiring teams and associates in virtual booths dedicated to a variety of corporate functions across the company. Jobseekers met the teams, explored job openings, and gained a better understanding of what it’s like to work at one of Forbes’ World’s Best Employers.

Lowe’s Program Makes Holidays ‘Twice as Nice’

Throughout December, Lowe’s is offering new ways to make the holidays “twice as nice” through its first-ever “Hometown Secret Santas” project, benefiting 100 local communities. Earlier this year, Lowe’s launched 100 Hometowns, identifying community advocates to receive Lowe’s help in an impactful community project to accelerate recovery from the pandemic. Lowe’s is transforming each grant recipient into a “Hometown Secret Santa,” proving it is “twice as nice” to give as it is to receive. Each Hometown Secret Santa will receive $2,000 in gift cards to purchase the perfect gift for deserving individuals or local organizations, helping to spread more holiday merriment in their community.

Sam’s Club, Laugh Out Loud and Kevin Hart ‘Bring the Merry’ to Community Organizations

Last week, Sam’s Club continued its campaign to Bring the Merry this holiday season along with Laugh Out Loud and actor Kevin Hart when they celebrated five organizations making a big difference in children’s lives and surprised them with $100,000 each. In addition to the monetary contribution, select families and children benefiting from the organizations were also surprised to have a unique holiday wish – from laptops to karaoke machines to dollhouses – fulfilled by the trio. The organizations that received the donations are Special Needs Network of Los Angeles, Calif., Houston Child Advocates of Houston, Texas, Boys & Girls Club of Springfield, Missouri, Positive Tomorrows of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida in Orlando.

 

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Circle the Date and Sign Up Today https://gpnmag.com/2021/11/circle-the-date-and-sign-up-today/ https://gpnmag.com/2021/11/circle-the-date-and-sign-up-today/#respond Wed, 17 Nov 2021 14:54:05 +0000 https://gpnmag.com/?p=80940 On Dec. 2, GPN will present a free 90-minute webinar on “Outlook 2022: What’s on the Horizon in the Coming Year for the Economy, Consumers and Legislation.” The webinar will take place at 2 p.m. EST. During the webinar, Bridget Behe, Craig Regelbrugge and Charlie Hall will examine the top issues facing the horticulture industry […]

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On Dec. 2, GPN will present a free 90-minute webinar on “Outlook 2022: What’s on the Horizon in the Coming Year for the Economy, Consumers and Legislation.” The webinar will take place at 2 p.m. EST.

During the webinar, Bridget Behe, Craig Regelbrugge and Charlie Hall will examine the top issues facing the horticulture industry in 2022.

This is your opportunity to hear exclusive insight from these three industry leaders as they examine the up-to-the-minute issues facing our industry and help growers make sense of these complicated topics and how they could influence the industry in the coming year.

Behe is a professor of horticultural marketing at Michigan State University; Regelbrugge is executive vice president of industry advocacy and research at AmericanHort; and Hall is a professor and Ellison Chair in International Floriculture at Texas A&M University.

Click here to register for the webinar.

— Tim

 

Home Depot’s Surpasses Goal for Veterans Program, Sets New Mark

The Home Depot Foundation has surpassed $400 million invested in support of U.S. military veterans since 2011. This pledge has since grown to $500 million by the year 2025, primarily focusing on veteran housing initiatives. “The Home Depot and The Home Depot Foundation want every veteran to have access to safe, affordable housing that fits their individual needs,” said Craig Menear, chairman and CEO. “We strive to help veterans live independently by conducting critical home repairs, providing mortgage-free smart homes and helping to end veteran homelessness with our nonprofit partners.” The company’s associate volunteer force, Team Depot, also has volunteered more than 1.25 million hours in service to veterans since 2011.

Meijer Recycling Program Paves the Way to a Better Future

Meijer and Dow are collaborating on a new paving technique using recycled plastic bags to create a more durable parking lot for the retailer’s Holland, Michigan supercenter. This recycled polymer modified asphalt )parking lot is a three-phase pilot project that used approximately 12,500 pounds of post-consumer recycled plastic — the equivalent weight of 944,000 plastic grocery bags. All of the recycled plastic used for the parking lot pilot project were deposited by Meijer customers through the retailer’s in-store plastic film recycling program. This project brings recycled plastic bags full circle and represents a long-term collaboration between two Michigan companies working toward a more sustainable future.

Walmart to Build Two New High-Tech Supply Chain Facilities in Texas

Walmart plans to build two new high-tech facilities in the Dallas-Fort Worth area to support its growing supply chain network — a 1.5 million square-foot automated fulfillment center, set to open in 2023, and 730,000 square-foot automated grocery distribution center, set to open in 2024. The new Lancaster-based facilities will create approximately 1,000 full-time jobs across the region — 40 percent of the new jobs created will require STEM skills to support technical positions. The high-tech facilities will move more than two times the volume of a traditional fulfillment and grocery distribution center all while improving the accuracy, quality and speed of the fulfillment and distribution of products.

 

 

 

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It’s That Time of Year Again! https://gpnmag.com/2021/11/its-that-time-of-year-again/ https://gpnmag.com/2021/11/its-that-time-of-year-again/#respond Tue, 02 Nov 2021 15:57:14 +0000 https://gpnmag.com/?p=80770 It’s hard to believe that November is already here. With the winter season approaching and onslaught of the holiday season upon us, the beginning of November also means we are now accepting nominations for GPN’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2022. Do you know someone who you think should be a member of our next […]

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It’s hard to believe that November is already here.

With the winter season approaching and onslaught of the holiday season upon us, the beginning of November also means we are now accepting nominations for GPN’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2022.

Do you know someone who you think should be a member of our next class?

Now in our 11th year, we will again be recognizing 40 individuals in the horticulture industry who are setting the pace for the future. We want to shine the spotlight on those individuals who will help determine where the industry is headed, why it is headed that way and how we are going to get there.

We are looking for 40 men and women who are trailblazers in their personal and professional lives. They demonstrate superior leadership, creativity, compassion and innovative thinking.

Anyone in the horticulture industry under the age of 40 (as of Jan. 31, 2022) can be nominated for the Class of 2022. Individuals previously nominated, but who did not make the final 40, can be nominated again this year.

Click here to nominate your candidate today!

The deadline for nominations is Jan. 21, 2022.

The Class of 2022 will be introduced in the May issue of GPN.

If you have additional questions about GPN’s 40 Under 40, please contact Editorial Director Tim Hodson at thodson@greatamericanpublish.com

— Tim

 

Walmart Brings Back ‘Black Friday Deals for Days’

After the positive feedback for Walmart’s reinvented Black Friday shopping experience last year, the retailer recently announced the return of its month-long savings event, “Black Friday Deals for Days.” This year “Black Friday Deals for Days” events will spread out Black Friday savings to three events throughout November to offer customers the best prices of the season. Each savings event will begin online at Walmart.com and continue with the same deals in stores. Also this year, Walmart+ members will receive early access to online Black Friday events with an opportunity to shop all the same hot deals four hours earlier than the scheduled start times for all three events.

Home Depot Names New Supply Chain Exec

The Home Depot has named John Deaton executive vice president of Supply Chain and Product Development, effective Nov. 1, 2021. He replaces Mark Holifield, who has accepted a role as CEO of a U.S.-based last-mile delivery firm after 15 years with the company. Deaton began his career with the company in 2007 as vice president of supply chain development where he led the rollout of 19 Rapid Deployment Centers. In 2011, he was promoted to senior vice president of brand and product development and was named senior vice president of supply chain in 2017, leading major aspects of the company’s supply chain operations including transportation, distribution and inventory management.

Lowe’s Ramps Up ‘Make More’ Merriment Program for the Holidays

As consumers head into the second holiday season of the pandemic, Lowe’s is committed to helping consumers “make more” this holiday through special services, expanded inventory while supplies last, more ways to shop and “twice as nice” experiences all season long. According to a Lowe’s holiday survey, more than 90 percent of consumers plan to spend as much, if not more, than last year on holiday gifts, and more than 85 percent will participate in holiday traditions. Bill Boltz, Lowe’s executive vice president of merchandising said, “We have taken steps to make sure holiday shopping is more convenient than ever – in our stores and on Lowes.com – so customers can focus on those holiday moments at home. We expect customers are going to want to go big this year, so we are excited to offer them the products and experiences they need to make the most out of their holiday season.”

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Survey Says Gardeners Will Be Growing More in 2022 https://gpnmag.com/2021/10/survey-says-gardeners-will-be-growing-more-in-2022/ https://gpnmag.com/2021/10/survey-says-gardeners-will-be-growing-more-in-2022/#respond Tue, 19 Oct 2021 19:44:22 +0000 https://gpnmag.com/?p=80682 According to a recently released survey of consumers, it looks like the horticulture industry will continue to ride its pandemic popularity wave next year. That is just one of the findings of the 2022 Gardening Insights Survey where 62% of those surveyed say they will be planting more in the coming year. That number is […]

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According to a recently released survey of consumers, it looks like the horticulture industry will continue to ride its pandemic popularity wave next year. That is just one of the findings of the 2022 Gardening Insights Survey where 62% of those surveyed say they will be planting more in the coming year.

That number is even higher with millennials, with nearly 76% of that age group planning to expand and plant more. Just over 30% of all respondents say they will plant about the same as they did in 2021.

The survey, conducted by Axiom Marketing, a market strategy consulting company based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, shows that next year will see gardeners investing more time and money, with 44% indicating they plan to spend more hours gardening than they did this year.

More than 28% say they will spend more money in 2022, nearly 68% will spend the same as they did in 2021.

When asked what is driving their interest, the top response focused on gardening’s ability to lower stress and create an overall sense of health and well-being. Spending more time with family outdoors and spending more time at home tied for second, while creating a beautiful outdoor space and food gardening tied for third.

Eighty-four percent say they felt they were successful with their gardening tasks in 2021. “What is even more encouraging is that number jumps to more than 90% when it comes to millennials. We believe if this group feels successful, that means the industry will have long-term growth. Millennials see gardening as more than just a hobby, it’s an extension of their home and a chance to enhance outdoor living space,” says Kathleen Hennessy, head of Axiom’s horticulture marketing group.

You can learn more about the 2022 Gardening Insights Survey at www.axiomcom.com.

— Tim

 

Home Depot, Walmart Team Up for Faster Delivery

The Home Depot and Walmart are working together to expand same-day and next-day delivery capabilities for Home Depot customers with Walmart GoLocal. Home Depot will offer delivery with Walmart GoLocal in select markets in the coming weeks, with plans to expand to multiple markets by the end of 2021. Products that qualify for this scheduled delivery, including tools, fasteners, paint and other supplies that easily fit in a car, will have that option enabled at online checkout. “This partnership brings us even closer to our goal of offering same-day or next-day delivery to 90 percent of the U.S. population,” said Stephanie Smith, senior vice president of supply chain for The Home Depot.

Plant-Based Foods Top Whole Foods ’22 Food Trends Report

Whole Foods Market recently unveiled its top 10 anticipated food trends for 2022 in the retailer’s seventh-annual Trends predictions. Each year, a Trends Council of more than 50 Whole Foods Market team members, including local foragers, regional and global buyers, and culinary experts compile trend predictions based on decades of experience and expertise in product sourcing and studying consumer preferences, as well as in-depth workshopping with emerging and existing brands. Among the plant-based products making the grocer’s top picks are ultraurban farmed edibles, hibiscus-flavored drinks, Yuzu (an Asian citrus fruit), sunflower seeds and functional drinks with botanicals and probiotics.

Lowe’s Debuts New Media Network

On Oct. 13, Lowe’s announced the launch of One Roof Media Network, a retail media service providing an extensive portfolio of advertising services designed to put brands at the forefront of the home lifestyle movement. The network brings together data-driven insights, foresight into consumer behaviors and home category trends and customized advertising products under one roof to help brand partners drive relevancy and sales with the home lifestyle customer. “Leveraging Lowe’s deep understanding of the home lifestyle customer and real-time trends, Lowe’s One Roof Media Network will serve as an extension of our partners’ marketing teams, helping them develop custom, comprehensive approaches designed to deliver on their business goals,” said Marisa Thalberg, Lowe’s EVP.

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Clemson’s Faust Receives Alex Laurie Award https://gpnmag.com/2021/10/clemsons-faust-receives-alex-laurie-award/ https://gpnmag.com/2021/10/clemsons-faust-receives-alex-laurie-award/#respond Tue, 05 Oct 2021 22:29:47 +0000 https://gpnmag.com/?p=80506 The Society of American Florists (SAF) recently honored James Faust, professor of floriculture physiology at Clemson University, with the 2021 Alex Laurie Award, honoring an individual who has made broad-scope, long-lasting contributions to research or education in the floriculture industry. Faust received the award on Sept. 23 during SAF Orlando 2021, the organization’s 136th Annual […]

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The Society of American Florists (SAF) recently honored James Faust, professor of floriculture physiology at Clemson University, with the 2021 Alex Laurie Award, honoring an individual who has made broad-scope, long-lasting contributions to research or education in the floriculture industry.

Faust received the award on Sept. 23 during SAF Orlando 2021, the organization’s 136th Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida.

After graduating from Murray State University, Faust worked in a commercial greenhouse, where his very first job was growing 12 acres of poinsettias. The experience sparked a passion that’s continued for more than 30 years. Faust, who continued his formal education at Michigan State University, has studied the plant in its native home — Mexico — as well as at the Paul Ecke Ranch in California. At Clemson, he oversees an ongoing study on light and heat’s effects on poinsettias.

Faust’s research has been funded by the American Floral Endowment for many years and includes work on daily light integrals, developing protocols to prevent leaf necrosis on cut flowers, and biological control. Most recently, he has spent the past five years conducting practical research on botrytis at GR Chia SAS, one of the largest growers in Colombia.

Faust is also a founding member of the Floriculture Research Alliance, a collaboration across universities and organizations to develop science-based solutions for floriculture.

Congratulations Jim!

— Tim

 

Walmart to Hire 150,000 Associates

As the holiday season approaches, Walmart is planning to hire more than 150,000 new U.S. store associates. According to Julie Murphy, Walmart’s Chief People Officer, most of the positions are permanent, full-time positions. “We’re always looking to add great talent to our incredible team of dedicated associates – the everyday heroes who have been a constant force for good in their communities amidst the uncertainty of the past year,” Murphy said. In addition to the 150,000 new associates in stores, the retailer announced plans to hire 20,000 associates in its supply chain facilities to permanent roles.

Lowe’s to Offer Discount to First Responders Ahead of National First Responders Day

Lowe’s plans to offer a 10% discount coupon for eligible first responders in Lowe’s stores and on Lowes.com Oct. 22-24, in recognition and appreciation for their service. First responders can register for the coupon beginning through Oct. 24 for this special offer by visiting Lowes.com/firstresponders for a single purchase on eligible items. “Our nation’s first responders wake up each day with a mission to serve others,” said Marvin Ellison, Lowe’s chairman and CEO. “By providing this special discount, we hope to offer a gesture of gratitude and appreciation to the many brave individuals who put their lives on the line each and every day.”

Whole Foods CEO Announces Retirement

On Sept. 30, Whole Foods CEO and co-founder John Mackey announced that he planned to retire on Sept. 1, 2022. At that time, the company’s current COO, Jason Buechel, will take over the reins of the Amazon-owned grocer. In a letter to the employees, Mackey stated he is “ready to pursue some of my other life passions” after a a40+ year tenure with the company. Buechel joined Whole Foods in 2013 as global vice president and chief information officer and was promoted in 2015 to executive vice president before being named chief operating officer in 2019.

 

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Know Any Interns? https://gpnmag.com/2021/09/know-any-interns/ https://gpnmag.com/2021/09/know-any-interns/#respond Tue, 14 Sep 2021 18:56:56 +0000 https://gpnmag.com/?p=80312 Does your company have an internship program? Do you know any college students who participated in a horticulture industry internship program this year? If you do, we want to hear from him or her for the 2022 GPN/Prospiant (formerly Nexus) Intern of the Year Scholarship. This is the 23rd year that we have awarded the Intern Scholarship, […]

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Does your company have an internship program? Do you know any college students who participated in a horticulture industry internship program this year?

If you do, we want to hear from him or her for the 2022 GPN/Prospiant (formerly Nexus) Intern of the Year Scholarship.

This is the 23rd year that we have awarded the Intern Scholarship, which includes:

  • A check for $3,000;
  • Being featured in an article and on the cover of the January 2022 issue of GPN;
  • Receiving travel and hotel expenses to Cultivate’22 in Columbus, Ohio, next July as well as a full Cultivate’22 registration (compliments of AmericanHort).

To be considered for the scholarship, the student must:

  • Be enrolled in a four-year accredited university during 2020-2021 and 2021-2022;
  • Be working on an undergraduate degree in horticulture/floriculture; and
  • Have completed a greenhouse-related internship in 2021.

To apply for the GPN/Prospiant Intern of the Year Scholarship, the student needs to:

  • Write a cover letter requesting consideration for the scholarship and state what university he/she attends;
  • Secure a letter of recommendation on university letterhead from the applicant’s academic advisor; and
  • Write a minimum 1,000-word essay describing the internship experience including where the applicant interned, what his/her responsibilities were and what was learned during the internship.

All application materials should be sent to thodson@greatamericanpublish.com.

The deadline to apply is Oct. 15, 2021.

— Tim

 

Whole Foods to Add ‘Just Walk Out’ Technology at Two New Stores

Whole Foods Market plans to open two stores featuring Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology as an option for customers in Washington, D.C. and Sherman Oaks, California. The stores are expected to open next year. Both stores will offer the natural and organic products and locally sourced options that are found in all Whole Foods Market locations – but customers will be able to skip the checkout line. Using Just Walk Out technology, customers can shop for the items they want, and simply exit the store. Just Walk Out shoppers will also have the option to use Amazon One, a fast, convenient, contactless way for people to enter, identify and pay.

Walmart, Meredith Team Up to Help Busy Families

Walmart recently announced a cross-platform partnership with consumer publisher Meredith Corp. to help busy families plan and prepare meals faster and more easily through AI-powered meal planning, shoppable recipes, visual search, chatbots and more. The partnership pairs Meredith’s expertise in food content, hyper-local consumer insights and proprietary technology platform with Walmart’s wide customer reach, omnichannel presence, product assortment, convenient shopping experience and delivery options. This is the latest strategic addition to Walmart’s thriving grocery eCommerce business.

Publix Donates 33 Million Pounds of Produce to Food Banks

Since April 2020, grocery chain Publix has donated more than 33 million pounds of produce to Feeding America member food banks through its farmers and families initiative and Feeding More Together campaign. Through the farmers and families initiative, the company purchased and donated more than 18 million pounds of produce and 500,000 gallons of milk to Feeding America member food banks. Publix purchased this produce and milk from Southeastern growers who lost business as schools and restaurants closed due to the pandemic. According to Feeding America, 1 in 9 Americans face food insecurity, and within Publix’s seven-state operating area, more than 8 million people face hunger every day.

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Finished Plant Conference to Debut in October https://gpnmag.com/2021/08/finished-plant-conference-to-debut-in-october/ https://gpnmag.com/2021/08/finished-plant-conference-to-debut-in-october/#respond Tue, 31 Aug 2021 18:21:21 +0000 https://gpnmag.com/?p=80105 In October, AmericanHort will debut its first-ever Finished Plant Conference, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. During the three-day conference (Oct. 11-13), attendees will learn best practices in the world of finished plants during the education sessions and network with suppliers at the trade show. There also will be a Greenhouse Tour and the Perennial Workshop. The […]

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In October, AmericanHort will debut its first-ever Finished Plant Conference, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

During the three-day conference (Oct. 11-13), attendees will learn best practices in the world of finished plants during the education sessions and network with suppliers at the trade show. There also will be a Greenhouse Tour and the Perennial Workshop.

The 25+ educational sessions will focus on specific production practices and crops that have the highest potential to impact profit margin. Topics to be covered include quality control, space efficiency, labor reduction strategies, scheduling, PGRs, overwintering and more.

During the trade show, key vendors will be exhibiting and sharing their expertise at the conference. Attendees will walk the trade show looking to discover new suppliers, strategies and opportunities to help grow their businesses.

There also will be a Greenhouse Tour that will visit several world-class locations including Walters Gardens, Spring Meadow Nursery, Henry Mast Greenhouse and Garden Crossings.

Walters Gardens also will be hosting the Finished Plant Conference Perennial Workshop. This workshop is ideal for both beginner to intermediate perennial growers and will cover weed control, perennial PGRs and application methods, handling of bare-root material and more.

For more information, visit AmericanHort.org/FinishedPlant.

— Tim

 

Whole Foods Foundation Dishes Out $3 Million in Garden Grants

Whole Kids Foundation, a nonprofit established by Whole Foods Market and dedicated to helping to improve children’s nutrition, is granting a record $3 million in garden grants to help schools and nonprofit organizations start or expand edible learning spaces as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. The Foundation is awarding the funds after receiving more than 1,400 applications from schools and nonprofits that want to create hands-on learning spaces that connect kids with food, spark their curiosity and support classroom curriculums. A total of 1,000 schools and nonprofit organizations will receive grants of $3,000 each this fall.

Walmart Launches Walmart GoLocal Delivery Service

Walmart has created a new business — Walmart GoLocal — which extends its expertise in delivering goods to customers to businesses of all sizes. Walmart GoLocal is built on the retailer’s ability to execute delivery capabilities at scale with efficiency. In recent years, Walmart launched and scaled delivery and Express delivery for its customers on 160,000+ items from more than 3,000 stores, reaching nearly 70% of the U.S. population. This white-label delivery service includes delivery on a range of assortment, including those with size and complex requirements, as well as the flexibility to meet varying timelines. The business will also rapidly expand to offer additional innovative offerings.

Lowe’s Kicks Off #FallTogether Program

To celebrate autumn, Lowe’s has assembled the #FallTogether Collective, a diverse and distinguished group of 10 creators, who will work with Lowe’s customers to help them bring their passion for the season to life in their outdoor spaces. Lowe’s customers can now register for the FallTogether Matchmaker Program for a chance to be matched with one of Lowe’s Collective creators. Each winner will receive a virtual consultation, customized project plan and $500 Lowe’s gift card to help infuse the sights, sounds and flavors of fall into their homes. The Collective includes individuals like Epic Gardening’s Kevin Espiritu, lifestyle creator Sopha Rush, and environmental Jenny Ong, among others.

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GPN’s Cannabis & Hemp Week to Take Place in September https://gpnmag.com/2021/08/gpns-cannabis-hemp-week-to-take-place-in-september/ https://gpnmag.com/2021/08/gpns-cannabis-hemp-week-to-take-place-in-september/#respond Tue, 17 Aug 2021 16:38:12 +0000 https://gpnmag.com/?p=80018 For the second year in a row, GPN, Cannabis Product News and Hemp Production news will present Cannabis & Hemp Week. It is scheduled to take place Sept. 21-23. The 2021 edition of Cannabis & Hemp Week will feature three one-hour interactive webcasts with industry experts addressing the latest issues facing growers. Attendees will learn […]

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For the second year in a row, GPN, Cannabis Product News and Hemp Production news will present Cannabis & Hemp Week. It is scheduled to take place Sept. 21-23.

The 2021 edition of Cannabis & Hemp Week will feature three one-hour interactive webcasts with industry experts addressing the latest issues facing growers. Attendees will learn insights, production tips and guidelines to growing successfully.

Agenda highlights are:

Tuesday, Sept. 21
What to Know Before You Grow … Cannabis & Hemp
Presented by: Travis Higginbotham, vice president of production at The Harborside Group

Wednesday, Sept. 22
Lighting Up CEA Hemp: Light Quantity, Quality and Photoperiod Demystified
Presented by: Neil Mattson, PhD, professor and greenhouse Extension specialist in the School of Integrative Plant Science at Cornell University

Thursday, Sept. 23
Panel Discussion: The Latest Tales from the Greenhouse and Field
Panelists:
Dr. Allison Justice, owner of the Hemp Mine
Erica Hernandez, technical specialist at Griffin
Maxwell Salinger, senior director of Cultivation at Cresco Labs

To learn more and to register, click here.

— Tim

 

Home Depot Opens New Distribution Centers in Baltimore

The Home Depot recently opened three new distribution centers in the Baltimore area. The 1.5 million square-foot campus will bring nearly 500 new full- and part-time jobs to Baltimore and provide faster delivery options to customers in the region. The newly opened facility is an 812,000-square-foot building that extends the aisles of the stores by offering fulfillment for online orders, providing a broader range of products directly to customers. It features a zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell charging station that offers a sustainable and more efficient way to power material handling equipment. Last year, the company opened a 698,000-square-foot facility that serves Pro customers, as well as DIYers, with oversized and bulk flatbed delivery directly to their job sites.

Walmart Looks to Expand Cryptocurrency Strategy

As digital currencies become more popular, many retailers are looking at the viability of the new technology and how they can benefit from them. According to the Indeed Hiring Lab, job listing for cryptocurrency positions have increase 118% in the past 12 month. The CNBC website reported that Walmart is getting into the game and recently announced it is looking to hire a cryptocurrency expert. The position was posted on Walmart’s website stating the the person will be responsible for developing the mass merchant’s “digital currency strategy and product roadmap” and identifying “crypto-related investment and partnerships.” The new job will be based out of Walmart’s headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas.

Tractor Supply Receives Great Place to Work Certification for Second Time

Earlier this month, Tractor Supply announced it has been Great Place to Work-Certified. This is the second time the company has been recognized by Great Place to Work, following inaugural recognition in 2020. To be certified, Great Place to Work evaluates validated employee feedback from an independent survey and a culture brief that recaps how a company is caring for employees. Using Great Place to Work’s rigorous, data-driven methodology, the certification confirms that at least seven out of 10 employees have a consistently positive experience at the designated company. This year, 80% of employees said it’s a great place to work – 21 points higher than the average U.S. company.

 

 

 

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