Chiquita's latest

This story talks about Chiquita's third quarter performance, which was highlighted by 8% growth in sales helped by higher banana prices in North America. However, the fresh spinach crisis weighed on the company's Fresh Express unit, despite the fact that none of the company's products was implicated. Overall, Chiquita's net sales rose to 8% to $1 billion but poor banana prices in the European market helped contribute to a net loss of $96 million for the quarter despite the company's ongoing cost saving initiatives. The lengthy analysis piece offers some insight on the Fresh Express dollar share for value added salads, which was put at 46% during the 13 week period ending Sept. 24. Chiquita also is growing with value added fruit, with the firm's Apple Bites reportedly showing a 49% value share. Chiquita is expanding distribution of Apple Bites and Chiquita Fruit Bowls, the article said. The firm is reported to be the third largest brand of fresh cut fruit, with a 12% national value share. The market likes the fact Chiquita is more diversified than it used to be, though with fresh produce nothing is ever easy.