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In today's email:

Most small business owners have financials, but few have financial clarity. There's a real difference between books that are technically up to date and books that actually tell you what's going on in your business right now. When accounting is reactive — updated when there's time, reviewed at tax season — you lose visibility exactly when you need it most. You can't tell which clients are truly profitable. You can't spot a cash flow gap before it becomes a crisis. BELAY's outsourced accounting team changes that.

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PARTNERSHIP

Asia Fruit Logistica has named IMBERRI as its Official Fresh Produce Partner for the 2026 edition, enhancing the event's focus on quality and innovation.

The announcement was made during the AFL SEA Meet Up in Bangkok on May 18, highlighting the collaboration's significance.

IMBERRI, the world's largest blueberry grower, operates over 70 estates and 44 cold-chain processing centers in Yunnan, China.

With an investment of approximately $600 million, IMBERRI manages the entire supply chain, ensuring premium quality fresh produce.

This partnership aims to strengthen IMBERRI's connections with global industry leaders and showcase its innovative practices, such as stem-on blueberries.

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MARKETING

Fresh produce retailers are urged to adopt innovative marketing strategies to enhance customer engagement and boost sales.

Digital marketing, local partnerships, and strong online presence are key strategies identified for retailers aiming to capture the evolving consumer market.

Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook can showcase products and create vibrant communities around brands.

Retailers should also utilize SEO and email marketing to improve visibility and tailor customer communications.

These strategies are essential for retailers looking to thrive in a competitive landscape as consumer preferences shift towards fresh and organic produce.

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QUALITY

Albertsons has launched Intelligent Quality Control, an AI-powered tool that enhances the evaluation process of fresh produce in stores.

Developed in collaboration with Google Cloud, this system analyzes images of produce and assesses them against internal quality standards.

Initial implementations at selected distribution centers have focused on strawberries and grapes, with plans to expand to other fresh products.

The technology aims to improve assessment consistency and efficiency in inspections, benefiting both consumers and supply chain operations.

Early results show promise, indicating an improvement in inspection processes and data collection for ongoing enhancements.

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PRODUCTS

NatureSweet has launched Golden Cherubs, a new golden grape tomato variety designed to bring more color, sweetness, and flavor to the snacking tomato category.

The tomatoes are marketed as “Out of This World Sweet Tomatoes” and feature a sweet, tangy flavor profile aimed at snacking, salads, and easy meal prep.

Golden Cherubs are grown in controlled greenhouse environments in Mexico and are Fair Trade Certified and Non-GMO Project Verified.

The new variety will roll out in select stores nationwide beginning in mid-May 2026 in 10oz recyclable, resealable packaging.

The launch expands NatureSweet’s Cherubs franchise while reinforcing its focus on premium, flavor-forward produce.

It also reflects continued demand for convenient, colorful snacking options that fit both everyday eating and fresh meal occasions.

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🍄 Asia Fruit Logistica announces IMBERRI as official fresh produce partner for 2026 | FreshFruitPortal.com | Asia Fruit Logistica has partnered with IMBERRI, reinforcing its commitment to showcasing innovation in the fresh produce sector. This collaboration emphasizes the importance of quality in the global supply chain.

📈 Albertsons debuts AI-powered fresh produce quality control system | FreshFruitPortal.com | Albertsons has introduced an AI-driven quality control system for fresh produce, collaborating with Google Cloud to enhance inspection processes. This technology aims to improve consistency in evaluations across distribution centers.

📄 US: Project launches to increase fruit & vegetable consumption among women, infants & children | A new project has launched in the US to increase fruit and vegetable consumption among women, infants, and children. The initiative focuses on improving accessibility and desirability of fresh produce through partnerships.

📰 It's About to Get Even Worse, Experts Warn After Groceries Just Had the Biggest Price Hike in Years | Grocery prices have surged by 2.9% in April 2026, marking the largest increase in years. Experts highlight rising costs in beef, tomatoes, and coffee as significant contributors to this trend.