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From the surprising new power shopper to engaging Gen Z and millennials to redefining value in the produce department, The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2026 is packed with data and insights to help drive fruit and vegetable sales — starting with these seven opportunities.
Despite ongoing supply-side issues, the demand side of citrus is looking strong, with growing demand from a health-focused consumer audience, all it takes is thoughtful and creative strategies from suppliers and collaboration with retail.
From mushrooms to Persian limes to murasaki sweetpotatoes to microgreens and more, exhibitors at East Coast Produce Expo 2026 showcased some of the hottest trends in produce.
The Kroger Co. is shifting to a capital-light fulfillment model by launching nationwide on-demand delivery across nearly 2,700 stores through the Uber app ecosystem to improve digital profitability and delivery speed.
In the latest USApple tracker, increased use of processing fruit and controlled atmosphere storage keeps total inventories well above the five-year average despite a year-over-year decline in fresh-market supply.
While a JEC report reveals grocery costs spiked by $310 annually, fresh produce remained a rare anchor of stability, as modest increases for items like lettuce and oranges were countered by an actual price drop for tomatoes, potatoes and strawberries.
The Resource Innovation Institute explored the possibility of colocating data centers with large greenhouses to deal with waste heat, supply food and provide jobs in the U.S.
From the reactions to new Fresh Trends data or the transition toward lifestyle-centric branding, produce industry businesses focused on how to turn regulatory and consumer shifts into competitive advantages.
By bridging the gap between “better-for-you” nutrition and the convenience of traditional CPG snacks, suppliers are unlocking new revenue streams through sophisticated merchandising and right-sized packaging.
Industry leaders and multigenerational farmers call for a rebalanced trade policy as shifting global tonnage and phytosanitary changes turn a trickle of foreign fruit into a flood.
As disease pressure, labor challenges and rising costs reshape controlled-environment production, growers and experts weigh when tomato grafting delivers real value and when it doesn’t.
Following a distinguished career with the commission, BJ Thurlby is remembered for his passion for the industry and his family.
The merger unites two industry pioneers, expanding Mission’s Mexican packing footprint to four facilities and signaling a major strategic entry into the high-growth prepared foods segment.
The industry veteran will continue as CEO of Brighter Bites while stepping into the new role on the board.
ALDI US is celebrating its 50th anniversary by opening 180 new stores in 2026, marking its first entry into Colorado and expanding its cold-chain infrastructure to meet surging demand for fresh produce.
East Coast Produce Expo exhibitors showcased plenty of innovative products for retailers, foodservice professionals and consumers.
Victor Smith was named senior vice president of retail divisions as Kroger strengthens its core leadership team with key internal promotions.
In addition to the limited-edition orange cartons, the program allows retailers to expand Lunar New Year sets through open display bins that can accommodate a range of citrus offerings.
The court issued more rulings Wednesday but did not act in the tariffs case, which was argued on Nov. 5.
Fresh produce marketing veterans at the East Coast Produce Expo explain why the industry must shift from a commodity mindset to building emotional equity to compete with products throughout the store.
Retailers can support celebrants of the holiday, which kicks off Jan. 14 this year, by ensuring sweet tropical produce like sugar cane, jackfruit and mangoes are available.
The debate over immigration and ag labor reform has been a political hot potato for decades now and has led to inaction by Congress, but leaders of the House and Senate Ag Committees say they are making it a priority for 2026.
Her research focuses on the intersection of advanced LED lighting strategies and sustainable pest management in CEA strawberries.
The grocer’s new grant-funding round supports critical infrastructure needs at food banks and partner agencies throughout California and Nevada.
The group is expecting both record-breaking total imports for the 2025-26 season and Super Bowl avocado supplies, as well as planning for World Cup promotions.
To support long-term growth, Berry Fresh has expanded Sweet Karoline acreage into Oregon, extending the season and enhancing national availability.
The Packer’s annual consumer survey takes a deep dive into commodities, exploring shopper habits, preferences and more to offer actionable insights that grow businesses.
U.S. trade leaders reveal a strategy to turn diplomatic friction into market share by navigating Japanese trade and expanding Mexico’s $134 million fresh market.
The National Advertising Division has recommended that Lidl US modify or discontinue its “exact same basket” and percentage-based price comparison claims following a challenge by Ahold Delhaize USA regarding the accuracy of those savings assertions.
Alex Jackson, vice president of sales and marketing for Frieda’s Branded Produce, shares a framework for turning trend overload into strategic clarity.