Nick Brekken Chosen for Leadership Academy
For the second consecutive year, an RPE team member has been chosen for the highly-selective Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) Next Generation Leadership Academy.
RPE Business Development Manager Nick Brekken has been selected to participate in SEPC’s Next Generation Leadership Academy Class Two. The 2024-25 NGLA Class will be officially announced in conjunction with the SEPC Southern Exposure industry show during the Keynote Brunch on Friday, March 8.
Nick follows Drew Callaghan, RPE vice president of business development, in this year-long professional development program for up-and-coming leaders in the produce industry. Drew is part of the first inaugural class and will graduate and be recognized at SEPC’s Southern Exposure this week.
Next Generation Leadership Academy features virtually-guided events throughout the year and up to two in-person programming events focused on the next era of agriculture. The program equips and prepares participants for future leadership responsibilities with content relevant to their leadership challenges.
Raina Nelson, NGLA Chair and past SEPC Chairperson, said the organization is passionate about development of future produce industry leaders. “The selection process was extremely challenging, and your submission stood out among the top applications received,” she wrote in a congratulatory welcome letter to Nick co-signed by Kim Flores, NGLA Co-Chair, and David Sherrod, Southeast Produce Council CEO & President.
“We received many outstanding applications this year,” the trio of leaders wrote, “(and are) excited to welcome you to this exemplary group and look forward to an exciting year ahead.”
Although Nick due to another commitment won’t be able to attend the show this year, RPE will be well-represented at Southern Exposure this week by Rick Estess, David Verdrager, Craig Fields, Ross Verner and Drew.
Congratulations Drew for completing the program and Nick on being selected for Next Generation Leadership Academy’s 2024-25 class.
Easter gatherings and meals are expected to grow this year
Among the 69% of consumers who plan to celebrate Easter, gathering with family & friends will be the top way to celebrate, followed by cooking or baking at home.
The demand for Russet potatoes seems to be holding steady with a few upticks. Overall, the market appears equipped to manage the movement of this year’s crop, though there may be some concerns in Idaho. It’s essential to monitor the situation closely to guarantee seamless market operations.
Supplies of yellow potatoes are tapering off in Colorado, while remaining stable in North Dakota, Minnesota, Idaho, and Canada. Additionally, new crop availability is emerging in Florida. As we approach the spring-summer period, prices are gradually rising which could change supply-demand dynamics.
Supplies of storage crop white potatoes are dwindling in the Northeast, with most remaining close to the shipping points. New crop availability is increasing in Florida, primarily serving the Southeast market. This indicates a transition phase in the market, with shifting focus towards new crop sources.
Fingerling potato supplies are holding steady in key shipping states like Colorado, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. Pricing remains consistent, suggesting a balanced supply-demand scenario for this variety.
Overall, it’s essential to monitor Idaho’s situation closely regarding russets and keep an eye on how the transition to new crop impacts pricing and supply dynamics across all varieties.
