Produce Retail
Canada’s retail market is mature, consolidated and full of demand for produce, according to a USDA analysis of the country’s retail market.
From the moment shoppers enter the 87,500-square-foot Astor Place Wegmans — the Rochester, N.Y.-based grocer’s newest store — the fresh produce storytelling begins.
A new Columbia Business School study, “From People to Produce: How Appearance Bias Fuels Food Waste,” reveals how consumer preference for cosmetically perfect fruits and vegetables contributes to billions of pounds of food waste — meanwhile, companies like Misfits Market are working to change perceptions and reduce waste.
While attending industry events requires taking time away from regular business, there is a return on investment from being involved — and a cost of missing out, says columnist Joe Watson.
Diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives aim not only to increase diversity in entry-level positions, but also to provide concrete pathways for employees to advance into leadership roles.
A Federal Trade Commission report has prompted the National Grocers Association to respond to the report’s suggestion that major grocers’ practices during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted competition and consumer choice.
Any retail grocery chain is susceptible to regress and failure. The produce department figures prominently in customer satisfaction, store profits — and the future of a store or chain, explains columnist Armand Lobato.
As mandatory compliance with the Produce Traceability Initiative and the Food Safety Modernization Act 204 Final Rule looms, retailers are readying for the 2026 implementation deadline. But they can’t do it alone.
How does the fresh produce industry earn the business and sustain the trust of today’s conscious consumers committed to responsible purchasing? In-store displays and signage can help make meaningful connections.
The partnership will offer Associated Wholesale Grocers members tools to enhance inventory management for independent supermarkets.
Food prices are expected to continue to decelerate in 2024 and are projected 2.5% up compared with 2023, according to a new USDA report.
Industry experts recently shared their insight on what to expect for this year’s crop and and avocado trends in retail.
The partnership enables more direct access to same-day delivery and artificial intelligence-powered smart carts to AWG member companies across 3,500 locations in 32 states.
The Save Mart Cos. has become the first California grocer to partner with Flashfood, an app that connects shoppers with fresh produce and other groceries at up to 50% off.
Inspired by wine flights, where patrons experience a tasting flight of multiple varietals, this retail program offers consumers the opportunity to discover the flavor profiles and vibrant colors of each variety.
Glennville, Ga.-based Bland Farms is expecting a strong crop of Vidalia onions this year to go along with its Gold Rush promotional campaign.
Sweetpotato retail per capita availability rose from 3.78 pounds in 2000 to 6.02 pounds in 2020, USDA statistics show. The momentum continued in 2023, according to retail scan data.
Ahold Delhaize’s “Growing Together” strategy aims to boost innovation, customer experience and sustainability, with goals of increasing omnichannel sales and digital engagement by 2028.
Schnuck Markets says it will offer exclusive digital promotions and enhance the Schnucks Rewards program.
Nearly 83% of consumers surveyed said they purchased this tropical fruit in the past 12 months, according to The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2024.
The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2024 data shows 54% of surveyed consumers reported purchasing blueberries in the past 12 months, up from both the 2023 and 2022 surveys.
United Natural Foods Inc. extended its distribution partnership with Whole Foods Market by eight years, now lasting until May 2032.
Nearly 37% of those surveyed by The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2024 said they purchased asparagus in the past 12 months.
However, avocado purchases remain high, according to figures from The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2024, which shows 51% of consumers reported purchasing the fruit in the past 12 months.
Montreal-based Equifruit, an importer and marketer of fair trade-certified bananas, is positioned to begin selling in the U.S. market, says Kim Chackal, director of sales and marketing.
In a recent Numerator study, while price continues to drive purchase decisions, Ontario consumers reported that they plan to continue to prioritize local fruits and vegetable despite inflation.
During Earth Month, the San Antonio-based grocer is introducing additional measures designed to boost its year-round commitment to reduce waste and maximize recycling efforts across its business.
In anticipation of springtime food cravings and knowing that shoppers want to save on their food bills, The Kroger Co. is sharing a variety of produce-filled menu ideas for less than $20 each.
As food costs continue to rise, consumers are tightening their belts and forgoing convenience in favor of savings — especially when it comes to online delivery and pickup, a new survey finds.
Lower grocery prices highlighted the March Consumer Price Index, but the annual food inflation rate remains well above the all-items index.
Retail opportunities include in-store, digital and social media marketing components. At foodservice, key messages focus on educating and inspiring foodservice decision-makers.
Quality inspectors are the eyes of a fresh produce operation, spotting issues that can lead to shrink at any point. They can also report on quality, which helps in promoting and marketing, says columnist Armand Lobato.
This summer, Georgia Grown will launch a program with Chicago-based IGA Inc. that will place Georgia Grown signage in 160 supermarkets in the Southeast region.