Produce industry headlines: February 19, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Thursday, February 19, 2026. Here’s what’s happening in fresh produce.

Two links provide analysis of Walmart’s financial report, plus Trader Joe’s new stores, retail veteran returns to Albertsons, a salad restaurant chain focuses on plates and protein, a new leader in Washington state, and more.

To read Walmart’s Q4 FY26 report, click here.

As always, have something to share, send us your feedback at news@bluebookservices.com.

Top Stories

Walmart Sales Climb, Driven by Grocery and Online Gains

The end of the fiscal year marks the first time Walmart reported lower annual sales than Amazon.com, taking away its title of the country’s largest company by revenue.

Walmart records higher online grocery sales amid automation push

The retailer continues to see U.S. online grocery growth as it focuses on supply chain automation.

Trader Joe’s releases latest ‘coming soon’ list of stores

Trader Joe announced its plans to open eight locations in the coming months.

Jay Schneider Reflects on His Recent Journey and Return to Albertsons

The retail veteran rejoined Albertsons as Produce Sales Manager, Acme/Safeway Mid-Atlantic Region, in December.

Salad concepts continue to make a move from bowls to plates

Fast-casual chain Just Salad launched Build Your Own Market Plates for customized protein-centric meals.

Washington State Fruit Commission appoints new president

The commission appoints Eric Patrick as its new president to oversee marketing efforts for cherries and canned pears grown in the Northwest, succeeding longtime president B.J. Thurlby.

U.S. and Ecuador finalize landmark trade deal, slashing tariffs on key exports

Ecuador is the second largest supplier of bananas to the U.S.

Good supply of cabbage leading up to Saint Patrick’s Day

Storage cabbage supply is strong, even with less volume this year due to poor planting conditions last spring.