Produce Retail
The Packer recently connected with Danny Dumas, senior vice president of sales, marketing and product management for Fresh Del Monte, to learn how the Florida-based company sees the new food pyramid influencing the fresh produce department at retail and what the company’s pending acquisition of Del Monte assets means for its future.
Whatever you do, from store remodels to special orders, first consider how it affects your customers, says columnist Armand Lobato.
The California Strawberry Commission’s 2025 Shopper Playbook shares strategies for retail growth.
The National Grocers Association praises a push for federal investigations into discriminatory pricing practices, arguing that enforcing antitrust laws is essential to leveling the playing field for independent grocers.
Columnist Armand Lobato examines the balance between efforts to prevent waste and fraud and the impact of value-added produce as a practical way to get nutrient-dense food into the hands of those in need.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Alex Jackson, vice president of sales and marketing for Frieda’s Branded Produce, shares a framework for turning trend overload into strategic clarity.
With government assistance spending moving rapidly online, Amazon’s new pilot programs and Prime Access discounts are creating a massive new gateway for fresh produce sales.
In leveraging Tastewise’s AI to identify the “Charfruiterie” trend months ahead of the competition, Crunch Pak successfully tapped into the adult snacking market to generate $10 million in new revenue.
As SNAP restrictions expand, independent grocers seek clarity on value-added produce to avoid “good faith” errors and potential program disqualification.
“We’re seeing the next generations, the millennials and Gen Z, looking for that authentic flavor and they’re unwilling to compromise on lesser ingredients in their products,” says Insignia International CEO Jason Parasco.
Leveraging new research on gut health and younger demographics, a grassroots initiative seeks to boost grower profitability and secure the future of the category.
The Florida-based family-owned grocer with six stores has redefined the modern farm market experience.
From data-backed insights to in-store execution, retailers are refining how the category is marketed to maintain momentum in an increasingly competitive produce aisle.
Canada’s retail market is mature, consolidated and full of demand for produce, according to a USDA analysis of the country’s retail market.
According to the 84.51° Kroger Precision Marketing Consumer Digest, 62% of consumers are planning to eat more fruits and vegetables as a primary functional food and nutrition goal.
The grocer is expanding food access by offering eligible customers a 20% discount on fresh fruits and vegetables and half-off Boost memberships through its new Verified Savings program.
Google Trends data shows a reliable spike every January for topics tied to healthier eating. This year, rather than limitations and restrictive eating, consumers are seeking ways to add to their health and wellness, which often includes eating more plants.
Columnist Armand Lobato shares what he calls a must-read book, just in time for Potato Lover’s Month in February.
This is the first offering for the grower, marketer and distributor of fresh fruit since its integration with Dole Diversified North America in October.